Beneath the cross that stands as a beacon light to the community lies a story of faith and perseverance at Bethany Assembly of God Church. The late Rev. John Joseph organized and founded Bethany Baptist Church on February 12 1932. The founding fathers labored to prepare a meeting place at 327 West 126th Street in New York City. Rev. Joseph served as pastor from 1932 to 1934.
In 1934, Rev. Henry Brooks was elected as pastor. Bethany continued to progress and grow under his leadership. Under his pastoral leadership, the next edifice at 308 West 133rd Street was purchased. The idea of a well-organized church with specific duties for boards and groups was formed. The membership grew and a larger edifice was needed so the membership decided to purchase the site on 153rd Street. Rev. Henry Brooks served as pastor from 1934 to 1954 and led the church for twenty years.
In July 1954, Rev. Brooks died and Rev. Elmer Brooks began his duties as acting pastor. On February 14 1955, Rev. Elmer Brooks was elected as pastor. On February 22 1957, Rev. Elmer Brooks led the membership in their march from 133rd Street to 153rd Street to the new edifice.
Under Elmer Brooks’ leadership, history was made as he labored teaching and preaching the gospel. Several church ministries were formed. These included the Chancel Choir, Mothers’ Board and Get Acquainted Committee. The Church Aide Society, Host and Hostess Committee and Scholarship Committee were also formed. Rev. Brooks served faithfully until he retired on May 29 1975.
On August 7 1975, Rev. Elijah Bennett assumed the helm. Under Rev. Bennett’s leadership several additions were added. The cross that stands as a beacon light to the community was erected. The church van was purchased. The Boy’s and Girl’s Scouts units were formed and five deacons were ordained. The housing committee was formed and Henry Brooks Senior Housing was built and opened in June 1994. Rev. Bennett served as pastor from 1975 until June 29 1994.
In July 1994, a pulpit committee was formed and the Late Deacon Jasper Laster was elected as the committee chairman. The committee members labored in a search for a pastor.
After much searching and praying for a pastor, on June 1 1995, Rev. Robert W. Wright, III was elected as the fifth pastor of the Bethany Baptist Church. Rev. Wright was a young man with a vision for the church, spirit filled, humble and God loving. As a new pastor, Rev. Wright brought new programs to accomplish very important things.
With God on their side, Rev. Wright along with the support of his Deacons, Trustees and members were able to add many new ideas and changes for the betterment of Bethany Church.
Under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Robert W. Wright, III, new Chairmen of the Boards were elected. The Housing Committee was reorganized into the Dream Team. Bethany Development Outreach at Mt. Morris Plaza reached completion and the church anticipated the start of Bethany Place. This project included multifamily housing, a primary health care center and a pharmacy. It also included renovation of the Church. Under Rev. Wright’s leadership many innovated programs were developed to carry forth the great commission.
Rev. Dr. Robert W. Wright, III served as pastor of Bethany from June 1995 through October 2005.
In 2006 a Pulpit Committee diligently searched for an Under Shepherd to lead the congregation by the guidance and the anointing of the Holy Spirit.
On February 2 2008, God led the church to elect Rev. Dr. Kris F. Erskine as the sixth pastor of the Bethany Baptist Church. After six years of pastoral leadership Rev. Kris F. Erskine and his family relocated to Alabama.
On Saturday, October 22, 2016 the Bethany Church elected Rev. Quinton Chad Foster to be the Pastor Elect. On August 6, 2017, he was installed as the 7th Pastor of Bethany Baptist Church. As Rev. Foster preached “Jesus Christ is the driver” they labored to proclaim and live the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Today Bethany Assembly of God Church continues its mission to love people and make disciples. It develops individuals to live out their highest calling in God.