In December 1955, a dream took root. Robert W. Dickerson began discussing the possibility of a new Disciples of Christ congregation. It would be named Bethany Christian Church. Bethany was the place where Jesus spent much time. This dream sparked the beginning of something remarkable.
Bethany Christian Church has a rich history. It all started with discussions among trusted friends and associates. Pastor R.W. Dickerson Sr., Mrs. Dorothy Dickerson, Lessie Penn, and George and Gladys Dickerson met at the home of Melvin and Lula Hampton in January 1956. They discussed organizing Bethany Christian Church. The church motto was chosen at this meeting. It was Matthew 17:20.
The first worship service was held on February 15 1956. It took place at the home of Pastor and Mrs. Dickerson. Seventeen people attended. An offering of $10.00 was entrusted to Melvin Hampton. He and his wife Lula served as treasurer for 24 years. The second service was at Mrs. Grace Dickey’s home. Five more people joined. She invited them back for six consecutive Sundays. The overflow filled the living room, hallway, and stairway.
A larger facility was needed. The growing congregation moved to A.J. Rickoff Elementary School. It was at 3500 E. 147th Street. They remained there for three years. The congregation flourished in an atmosphere of faith and love. The Bible School grew to be the largest among Black Disciples Churches. Average attendance was 100 persons each Sunday. A highlight of this time at A.J. Rickoff was Fellowship Day. It was held when the church was about six months old. Approximately 35 churches of all denominations were invited. The Interdenominational Ushers Association ICUA also attended. Dr. Waymon Parsons, Pastor of Heights Christian Church, was the speaker.
With little money and overwhelming faith in God, the congregation negotiated to obtain a church. It was located at 12306 Soika Avenue. They raised $600.00 in two weeks. They added it to the $1,462.00 saved during their three years at A.J. Rickoff. The Cleveland Disciples Union gave them an additional $3,000.00. Bethany Christian Church celebrated its first worship in their new home on Sunday, February 8, 1959. When the charter was obtained in 1961, membership totaled 145.
The first two ministers ordained from the congregation were Rev. William Hannah and Rev. Arthur Hill. Rev. Hannah organized Fifth Christian Church. He later became the Executive Secretary of the National Convocation. Rev. Hill served as pastor for several churches. These included Lincoln Avenue Christian Church in Youngstown, Ohio. Other ministers from Bethany include Rev. James Hannah, Elder Donald L. Jackson, Rev. Dr. Joseph Crockett, Bishop Robert W.H. Dickerson, Rev. Rodney Smith, and Min. Roderick Dickerson.
The 7:30 AM early morning service began in the Fall of the early 1980s. Six Bethany members were found attending early service at East Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Pastor Dickerson met with them. He determined others were interested in an early morning service. He took the request to the Board. Two Sundays later, Bethany held its first 7:30 AM worship service. About 10 members attended. Joyce Crowell played the piano. The congregation sang from the hymnal. Charles Dickerson organized a choir soon after. The congregation grew.
One purpose of the early morning service was to make it possible for night workers to attend service on their way home. The service became more than that. The presence of the Lord could be felt there more than at any other service. The early morning service did not detract from the 10:45 AM service. Instead it added to the church. Most of those six members have passed away. But there is hope that their love for the service can still be felt. Those members included Mildred Bailey, Catherine Broxton, Roscoe Dickerson, Diane Jordan, Arthur Laney, and Mary Sue McDonald.
Bethany Christian Church continues to thrive. Its history is a testament to faith, community, and unwavering dedication.