Dr. K. Darling in October, 1965, in the Constituency of Englerston. There were approximately seventeen founding members including the late Mother Dorothy Darling, Deac. Doris Henfield and Sis. Jestina Moss.This body of believers grew as the Lord added to the church weekly such as should be saved. The village of Bethany is said to be one that was loved by our Lord as He visited with his friends, La
zarus, Mary and Martha. The warmth that Jesus felt when He visited the quiet village of Bethany certainly became a Hallmark for our church. Strategically located, Bethany serves as a beacon in this area of God’s vineyard, enriching the spiritual and social development of the people. Thus, the older members formed the hub of the congregation in earlier years. Believing the Sunday School Department to be the nursery bed of the church, Pastor Darling organized this department early in 1966, along with the Baptist Training Union. This was headed by the late Deac. Doris Henfield and she was assisted by the late Mother Darling and Sis. Jestina Moss. As the church grew, the Woman’s Missionary Circle was established along with a Young People’s Department, Men’s Fellowship, Prayer Band and Senior Choir. Under Pastor Darling’s tenure, he ordained five men to the Sacred Gospel Ministry. He also led the church in its building program; it was during his term as Pastor that both sanctuaries were built. Indeed, he was a visionary and gave freely of his time, talent and resources to the glory of God. Today, the Ministry of the church continues under the leadership of Bishop Victor S. Cooper Jr. who continues the good work started by Pastor Darling. Bethany continues to be a witness in this community. Through its Outreach Programs of “Feeding the Multitude” (Martha’s Kitchen) and its Visitation Programs of visiting sick & shut-ins in the church and community. Over the years the church’s membership has increased significantly. In 1995 the church renovated its Schoolroom section and dedicated it in memory of our late Pastor, Rev. Darling. Additionally, the Church and Schoolroom are now centrally air-conditioned. We have installed a new Sound Room and P/A System, and we have purchased the parking lot opposite the church. In an effort to expand its social program, the church has purchased five (5) pieces of property. These which comprises of our apartments and parking lot. One that is being leased and the final that has our Youth Center, presently being used as a school facility. Further, we continue to expand our media and music accompaniments. All of our facilities have been upgraded. Believing education is important to the development of our people, Bishop Cooper has instituted a Scholarship Program for church members interested in pursuing theology training locally can request. We continue to add to the church such as should be saved. Our transportation department expanded, our buildings refurbished and the addition of our Combined Choirs, Children’s Choir, Male Chorus, Young Adult, and Ensemble is evident that God is certainly in the blessing business at Bethany, and we give Him all the praise that is due unto His Name.
