El Bethel Missionary Baptist Church

In 1930, a small group of believers gathered in Los Angeles. They laid the foundation for what would become El Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. The church was officially organized under the leadership of Reverend S.P. Hathman. The original fourteen members included Sister Cleotha Flowers, Mary Etta Christal, Fannie Robertson, and Brother R.B. Flowers Sr. El Bethel Missionary Baptist Church got its name from Sister Fannie Robertson. She believed the name, meaning “God is in this place,” reflected the divine presence within their community. A year later, the church purchased its first property. Under the leadership of Reverend L.W. Wallace, the building underwent its first remodel. El Bethel Missionary Baptist Church continued to evolve. Reverend H.W. Evans oversaw another remodel. Then Reverend J.L. Lewis led the construction of the current building. The cornerstone was laid on December 8, 1944. The church experienced significant growth under Reverend Albin Hurd, starting in 1949. His leadership saw the addition of new pews, pulpit furniture, water fountains, a lighting system, and an organ. A church van was purchased. An educational building and dining room were added. The church also embraced the tithing program. This allowed for improvements like a central heating and air conditioning system. El Bethel Missionary Baptist Church has seen many pastors over the years. These include Reverends L.W. Wallace, H.W. Evans, J.L. Lewis, Collins, M.D. Edwards, Albin Hurd, S.B. Ealy Jr., James Coleman, Robert McKenzie, and C.O. Preston. The church has also been served by numerous deacons. These include Brother R.B. Flowers Jr., Willie Keyes, Hubert Byrd, Jim Webb, John Williams, White, Joe Henry, Carnell Polk, William Whitehead, Richard Perkins, J.T. Moore, Charles Hall, Gilbert Hawkins Sr., George Washington, S.T. Carter, and Billie Joe Debase. Since 2012, Pastor Justin R. Barker Sr. has led El Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. The church has thrived under his guidance. Membership has tripled. New ministries and programs have been added. These include a second worship service, New Members Orientation, Community Arm Ministry, IRON MEN Ministry, SWAG Ministry, a scholarship fund, annual retreats, Children’s Church, EPIC Ministry, and a full music staff. El Bethel Missionary Baptist Church continues to be a vibrant part of the Los Angeles community.