New Bethany Baptist Church

Did you know a small group of just eight people started it all? New Bethany Baptist Church emerged from this humble mission in 1935. Officially organized by the Baptist Ministries Conference on November 27th of that same year, New Bethany Baptist Church found its first home in a surprising location. It began its life at Richard’s Funeral Parlor, situated at the corner of Vermont Avenue and “R” Streets, NW, DC. Imagine the contrast! New Bethany Baptist Church quickly outgrew this space. By November 1935, it moved to 807 First Street, NW, DC, a building designed and built by the church’s first pastor, the Reverend Dr. John J. Koger. Dr. Koger led New Bethany Baptist Church for an incredible 55 years, from its founding until 1990. He established the church’s foundation, forming the Boards of Deacons, Trustees, Ushers, and Deaconesses. He also nurtured the growth of the Sunday School, the Christian Education Ministry, and several church choirs. Today, New Bethany Baptist Church thrives under the leadership of Reverend Jesse J. Jackson, Sr. Pastor Jackson, a graduate of the Washington Baptist Seminary, has been guiding the congregation since 2017. He has introduced leadership development programs, fostered a vibrant youth ministry, and spearheaded a Thanksgiving outreach program, enriching the community and extending the church’s mission beyond its walls. New Bethany Baptist Church continues to strive to be a “beacon of hope,” bridging generational and social divides.