Doesn’t the name Bethany Temple Church resonate with warmth and community? It is more than just a building. It’s a place with a rich history. Bethany Temple Church started as the Second Presbyterian Church of Seattle in 1888.
The church first met near what is now the Seattle Center fountain. David T. Denny a city founder donated the land. Imagine those early days. Only 36 members dedicated the first building.
In 1903 the congregation decided they needed a new name. They voted and chose Bethany meaning “home of the friends of Jesus”. This name reflects the welcoming spirit of the church.
As the congregation grew Bethany Temple Church moved to a second location in 1907. It was at First Ave N and N Roy Street. This second building housed 300 members.
The church then moved to Queen Anne Hill in 1926. For a few years Bethany held services in temporary locations. They met at the Queen Anne Masonic Temple. Later they gathered at the Queen Anne Club House.
Finally in 1929 Bethany decided to build its third and current home. A church member Frederick J. Davison donated the land at 1818 Queen Anne Ave N. The first service was held on Easter Sunday in 1930.
The English Gothic building features a tower and spire rising 80 feet. James Hay designed this beautiful structure. An addition in the 1960s blended well with the original design.
Bethany Temple Church has a history of helping those in need. In 1950 the church sponsored a family displaced by World War II. This family came from a deportation camp in Europe. Bethany helped them find a home and start a new life in Seattle.
The 1960s were a challenging time for Bethany. Membership declined but the remaining members were determined to revive the church. A new pastor brought dynamic leadership. Worship became central. Bethany welcomed “Jesus People”. The church grew again. Members lived out their faith through home groups and using their spiritual gifts.
In 1982 the church helped launch the Queen Anne Helpline. This organization supports locals with rent food and clothing. It continues to depend on community support.
Bethany Temple Church expanded its campus by purchasing nearby houses. These houses were used for Sunday school classes and a preschool. Later they made way for a new fellowship hall kitchen and lobby.
For many years the Queen Anne Foodbank was housed in the basement of one of these houses. Bethany has always had a strong commitment to outreach.
Bethany Temple Church launched a Wednesday Night Dinner program. It welcomes church members neighbors and those in need. It is a caring community that offers physical and spiritual support.
In the early 2010s Bethany retrofitted its buildings for earthquake safety. This action ensured the safety of everyone who enters. Bethany is known for launching members into ministry. It is a vibrant church with a rich history of faith community and service.