History of Bethel United Methodist Church
Bethel Church was founded in 1846. It was moved from a site in Greene County to its present location in Wayne County. It is believed to be the oldest Methodist Church in Wayne County.
The forefathers, in the early years and years of material wealth, strove to supply a place for its members to gather and find answers to their spiritual needs.
In 1943 church services were held only once a month with church attendance ranging from 8 to 15 and there was no Sunday school.
The growth of the church was reflected in the building of a parsonage, the addition of Sunday school rooms, remodeling of the sanctuary and the ability to become a station charge.
In 1990 a fellowship hall was built and a new sanctuary built in 2000. The people saw an increase in membership, attendance at services, growth in Sunday school and a renewed interest in the church and its activities.
October 5, 2005 the note on the sanctuary was burned and a groundbreaking was held for a new fellowship hall. Two years later, October 7, 2007, the church observed its annual Homecoming Services in the new fellowship hall. The Church contributed over 5000 hours of volunteer labor toward the completion of the building. Much of the cost was assumed from fund raisers conducted by the organizations and Sunday school classes.
In 2022, Bethel United Methodist Church became Bethel Fellowship Church. The congregation joined the Global Methodist Church. Bethel's leadership and congregation believed that this was where God was leading us in theology and mission.
We have seen growth in every aspect of church life. Today the church has an active Bethel Women's, Bethel Men's and Bethel Youth Fellowship.
Bethel Fellowship Church still remains "The House of God" which has seen difficult times and enjoyed growth. We attribute the success of this Church to love, fellowship, a sense of caring and dedication to God and fellowman.