Beneath the Gothic Revival architecture stands Bethany Baptist Church. It is located at 303 West 153rd Street in Manhattan. The building wasn’t always Bethany Baptist. It was originally built for the Washington Heights Evangelical Lutheran Church.
Bethany Baptist Church’s story began in 1932. The Reverend John Joseph founded it on February 12. The first meeting place was at 327 West 126th Street. Rev. Joseph led the church from 1932 to 1934.
In 1934, Reverend Henry Brooks became the pastor. Under his leadership, Bethany grew. They purchased a new building at 308 West 133rd Street. The church became more organized. Boards and groups were formed for specific duties. The need for a larger space led them to purchase the site on 153rd Street. Rev. Brooks served until 1954.
After Rev. Brooks’ death, Rev. Elmer Brooks took over in 1955. In 1957, he led the congregation to their new home on 153rd Street. Under Rev. Elmer Brooks, several ministries began. These included the Chancel Choir and the Mothers’ Board. He retired in 1975.
Reverend Elijah Bennett then assumed leadership. Under Rev. Bennett, the cross was erected. It became a beacon light to the community. The church purchased a van. Boy and Girl Scout units were formed. Henry Brooks Senior Housing was built. Rev. Bennett served until 1994.
In 1995, Reverend Robert W Wright III became pastor. He was young and full of vision. Rev. Wright introduced new programs. The church continued to improve.
Under Rev. Wright, new board chairmen were elected. Deacon Steven A Robinson and Trustee Darren Richburg stepped up. Bethany Development Outreach at Mt Morris Plaza was completed. The church looked forward to Bethany Place. This project included housing, a health center, a pharmacy and church renovations. Rev. Wright served until 2005.
In 2008, Rev. Dr. Kris F Erskine became the sixth pastor. After six years, he relocated to Alabama. Rev. Evelyn Mayrant took over ministerial duties. She preached, visited the sick and administered sacraments.
In 2016, Bethany Baptist Church elected Rev. Quinton Chad Foster. In 2017, he was installed as the seventh pastor. Rev. Foster is a native of Houston, Texas. He is a fifth-generation preacher. He acknowledged his call to preach at age twelve.
Rev. Foster has a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the American Baptist College. His major was Homiletics. He also studied at Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Pastor Foster is known for his expository preaching. He has a passion for teaching. He believes in the inerrancy of the Word of God. He preaches salvation through faith, grace and Christ alone. The Bethany Baptist Church family feels blessed to have him.
The Gothic Revival building stands as a testament to faith. Bethany Baptist Church has a rich history. It continues to serve its community. It is a beacon of hope in Harlem.