Founded in 1950 Bethany Methodist Church of James Island started small. A group of James Island Methodists wanted a church closer to home. They met with the District Superintendent. He liked their idea. Soon they found a temporary space. It was the James Island Community House. This was the fire station on Plymouth Avenue.
Their first service was June 4 1950. Eleven five people became charter members. They adopted the name Bethany Methodist Church of James Island. This name reflects their hope and new beginnings.
The church quickly grew. They needed a permanent home. Land was purchased on Maybank Highway. The congregation worked hard. They built their first parsonage. Groundbreaking for the new church was June 6 1954. The first service in the new sanctuary was January 16 1955.
Expansion continued. A youth building opened in late 1955. An educational wing followed in September 1957. The steeple was finished in 1978. The Fellowship Hall was dedicated in 1990. This hall played a vital role after Hurricane Hugo in 1989. It became headquarters for disaster relief. Food clothing and shelter were provided to the community. The South Carolina House of Representatives even recognized Bethany’s efforts.
Today Bethany UMC of James Island continues to thrive. It remains a cornerstone of the community. Its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to service are evident. It’s known for its pumpkin church decorations and more recently built playground. The church offers various programs for all ages. This includes Sunday School and small group meetings. They also host events such as a fish fry and a seasonal market. Bethany UMC stands as a testament to faith community and resilience. It’s a place where history faith and community intersect. It’s a church that has truly grown. It’s a vital part of James Island’s fabric.