As Jesus first entrusted a small group of folks with his story, and as the Holy Spirit empowered them, the Church was born. Our roots go back to those first-century gatherings where belonging to Christian fellowship usually put one's life at stake. In the face of culture, heresy, the Empire, and mortal danger, the faithful brought the gospel to us today. And we believe that God's Spirit is still present, and we are witnesses to Christ's resurrection. In the midst of that great Church, we are those people called United Methodists.
Here in what was once the Manchester Mill Village on the outskirts of Rock Hill, South Carolina, in the year 1900 a handful of Methodists began meeting in one another's homes for prayer and fellowship. Very soon a building for worship was erected on West Roy Street, and then by 1940 the old frame building was relocated on rollers to its present location. As the congregation grew, the church was completely rebuilt, along with the Beckham Memorial gym, making up our present-day facilities.
While the city and neighborhood have changed, Bethel is still home to followers of Jesus who would meet for prayer, worship, service and fellowship. We wonder what God has in mind for us and this place. We strive for ways to utilize these facilities. Will you join us on the journey?
