New Bethel Baptist Church

In the heart of North Carolina, nestled in the Rex community, stands the New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. But its story doesn’t begin here. It begins with a journey, a journey of faith from Shannon to Rex. Many residents of Rex were members of St. John Missionary Baptist Church near Shannon. They held Sunday School at Bright Hope Public Elementary School, closer to home. As the Sunday School thrived, the community felt a calling. They needed a church of their own, a new Bethel. This desire, born from devotion, led to the founding of New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church on the second Sunday of June, 1901. The church’s name itself speaks volumes. “Bethel,” a biblical place of significance, coupled with “New,” signifying a fresh start in the Rex community. The founders, Rev. J.J. McDonald, Bine McLean, William McEachern, Steve McLean, and Hamp McEachern, laid the cornerstone of this spiritual haven. New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church quickly became a pillar of the community. Rev. McDonald, the first pastor, served from 1901 to 1908. Deacon Hamp McEachern served as the first secretary, and Bine McLean became the first treasurer. The choir, featuring members like Martha Graham, Martha McDonald, and Will McKinnon, filled the church with hymns. Among the first baptized were Annie Johnson McLean, Bessie McDonald, and Hanna McEachern Avant. New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church officially joined the Union Association in November 1901. The association’s meeting was held at Flat Swamp Baptist Church near Fayetteville, with Deacon Bine McLean representing the newly formed church. The years that followed saw the church continue to grow. Under Rev. Jim Smith’s leadership from 1914 to 1921, a new church building was planned and constructed, a testament to the dedication of the congregation. This ambitious project began in 1917 and spanned several years. During Rev. Lacy Jones’s tenure, from 1929 to 1950, the church experienced significant growth, both in membership and spiritual enrichment. This era marked the ordination of new deacons and ministers, further strengthening the church’s foundation. New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church has seen many pastors over the years, each leaving their mark on its rich history. From Rev. Ratcliff to Rev. McNair, each leader contributed to the church’s evolution, adding new facilities and programs. The church faced a tragic loss with the sudden death of Rev. S.J. McKinnon in a car accident in July 1967. However, the church persevered, demonstrating its resilience and unity. The story of New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church continues to this day, a story woven with faith, perseverance, and community.