Ever stop to think about the cornerstone of a community? Here at Bethlehem Church of Christ, it is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a testament to faith, resilience and service.
Bethlehem Church of Christ has a story etched in its walls. Its history spans over a century. It all began with a small group of the faithful.
In 1903, they gathered in a grocery shop. Reverend Dr. John Holthusen of Trinity Lutheran Church led them. He wanted to start a mission for the German community. This humble beginning marked the birth of the Brooklyn Mission Society’s Bay Ridge mission.
A year later, Reverend Paul Lindemann became the missionary. He officially organized the congregation. On April 13, 1905, Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church was established. Lindemann became its first pastor.
The early days saw the congregation meeting in a storefront. But their determination led them to build a small church. It accommodated 125 people at 615 51st Street. The church was dedicated on May 27, 1906. In 1907, Bethlehem became self-supporting.
As the community evolved, so did Bethlehem. In the 1920s, the congregation moved south. They wanted to stay connected with their members. A new site was purchased at Fourth and Ovington Avenues.
The construction of the new church was done in two stages. The basement and parsonage were built first. The upper church followed later. In 1922, Ernst C. Schumacher laid the cornerstone. He was the owner of the original storefront church. The congregation dedicated the completed church basement in April 1923. It served as their place of worship for six years.
Finally, on February 23, 1930, Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church was dedicated. Over six hundred people gathered. The Boy Scouts, Camp Fire Girls and choir participated in the service.
Bethlehem’s journey has been marked by dedicated pastors. They include Reverend August W. J. Herbert and Reverend August F. Bobzin. During the difficult economic times, the congregation continued to grow.
Reverend Raymond Frederick Surburg led the church from 1941. He established an annual gospel preaching mission. The church celebrated its 45th anniversary. They paid off the second mortgage.
Bethlehem expanded its ministries under Reverend Darrell D. Helmers. He served for 35 years. The Lutheran Elementary School of Bay Ridge was founded. The Bay Ridge Center for Older Adults also began.
Today, Bethlehem Church of Christ continues its mission. It serves the community through various programs. It is a testament to faith, community, and enduring spirit.