Bethel Baptist Church in Westminster is celebrating 175 years of service to the Oakway community. Anniversary activities began Oct. 28 with a concert by Mark Bishop. On Nov. 3, members will have a harvest hoedown from 6-8 p.m. The celebration will continue Nov. 4 with Old Timers Worship at 10 a.m.
Bethel, which was constituted in July of 1832, received its name due to the earlier “Bethel Meeting House” located on Spearman Mill Road. In 1859 in the Nubbin Ridge Community (Oakway), several families organized and built New Bethel.
In 1880, a new church building was constructed across the road from the existing structure. By the early 1900s, Bethel’s membership had grown to around 150. In 1923, 11 assembly rooms were added to the church structure.
In 1954, the church chose the location for the new sanctuary and voted to build. Some of the materials from the old church were used in constructing the new church. The official opening was held March 27, 1955.
A fellowship building was built in 1977. Since that time, an educational building has been built and the sanctuary remodeled.
During the 175-year history of Bethel, 43 men have served as pastor. David Bagwell is the current pastor.