Perhaps it’s the welcoming atmosphere that draws you in or maybe it’s the promise of a diverse community. Bethel Church of Love and Praise stands as a beacon. It welcomes all with open arms.
Bethel Church of Love and Praise has a rich history rooted in faith and community. Pastor Jim Persram and his wife embarked on a journey. They moved to the United States in 1983. They brought their three children with them. Before this move they had a successful ministry in Better Hope Guyana.
After four years in Brooklyn the Persrams established their first church in the United States. In September 1987 they moved to Queens. With the assistance of a few dedicated individuals they founded Bethel Assembly of God Church in Richmond Hill. Initially the church gathered in a storefront. It moved to various locations. In 1991 Bethel Church bought land in South Ozone Park. Some years later they completed the construction of a beautiful church. This was a miracle.
In April 1996 Bethel Assembly relocated to their new building in South Ozone Park. It is located at the corner of 130 Street and 115 Avenue. Bethel Church is a church that embraces people from all backgrounds. Its mission is to share the message of Jesus Christ with everyone. The church firmly believes that Jesus is the only hope for all people. Bethel Church boasts a wonderful team of leaders. They dedicate themselves to various ministries.
Bethel Church of Love and Praise is a Pentecostal church with diverse backgrounds. Whether you’ve attended church for years or are just starting Bethel welcomes you. Services are held on Sundays at 8 am and 10 am. If you cannot attend in person you can stream the services on Facebook and YouTube at 10 AM.
The service lasts about an hour and a half. The first 30 minutes feature uplifting worship and praise music. This is followed by teaching and prayer. You are welcome to come as you are. From jeans to tuxedos all are welcome.
Children are encouraged to participate in Kidz JAM. It takes place in the lower auditorium. It offers worship and Bible learning in a kid-friendly environment. A nursery is available for parents with younger children at the back of the main sanctuary.
Bethel Church NYC actively supports missions. They are a strong supporter of the Assembly of God World Mission. They also support a Local Missionary Outreach program. They support over 30 missionary programs abroad and locally. Throughout the years Bethel Church has contributed an average of 40000 dollars per year. This supports these programs. This motivation stems from their belief in the teachings of Jesus.
Founding Pastor Jim Persram began his ministry as a teenager. He led an outstation church of People’s Assembly of God in Guyana. One week after his wedding he and his wife Sister Baby began pastoring Better Hope Assembly of God. Pastor Jim also taught at the AOG Bible School in Guyana.
Associate Pastor Lynette Hetsberger became a Christian in 1977. She worked as a medical technologist in Guyana. She manages the Bethel Phone Prayer Network and leads the Bethel Seniors Group. Associate Pastor Stanley Praimnath survived the 1993 bombing and 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center. He is a motivational speaker author and the Men’s Group leader. Associate Pastor Ken Thakurdeen serves as Superintendent of the Sunday School Department. He also serves as a Deacon in the Church Board.
Bethel Church of Love and Praise continues to grow. It is a vibrant multi-cultural ministry. Every week hundreds gather to worship together. It stands as a testament to faith community and the unwavering message of hope.