In 1913
Established in 1913 by Bishop John Hurst and Reverend D. J. Hartwell, Reverend C. W. Williams, and interested members of Allen Chapel AME Church, our congregation began as a Mission Church on Alcaniz Street to serve Pensacola's growing African-American community. In 1916, the church was officially renamed Bethel upon petition from its first Trustees and founder, Sister Mary E. Dixon. The church later moved to its current location at Hayne and Moreno Streets, constructing a new structure under the leadership of Reverend A. W. Wallace. We honor the legacy of our founders and the deep history of our community.
In 1956
From its inception Bethel has been an evolving, developing and rising church. In 1956 under the leadership of Reverend A. H. Hunter, the building at Hayne and Moreno Streets was remodeled and construction began for an attached educational. Reverend N. Z. Graham was pastor when the educational building was completed.
Between 1959 and 1964
The years 1959–1964 were crucial for our spiritual development under the guidance of Rev. E. Jones and his family, who significantly contributed to the church’s growth. Following this period, Rev. William F. Ball, Jr. served a short but impactful tenure (1963–1964) during which he established the beloved annual Harvest Festival. A key fundraiser and gala event held during the Thanksgiving season.
In 1965
In 1965, Rev. William E. McNealy began his remarkable service, holding the distinction of receiving 34 consecutive appointments to Bethel, a record from the West Florida Annual Conference. During his long and dedicated administration, necessary repairs and remodeling projects were undertaken, ensuring a safer and more comfortable structure for worship and ministry.
By the mid-1970s
Bethel was a debt-free church, enabling key investments starting with the purchase of a new parsonage in 1974. The following year (1975), due to the construction of the I-110 corridor, Bethel relocated, purchasing land and constructing a brand new church structure at 511 Woodland Drive. This new property included a duplex, which was converted into our Church Nursery. Recognizing the need for future expansion, an additional three acres were purchased in 1979 for adequate parking and growth.
In the 1980s
Bethel celebrated a significant milestone in 1983 with a Church Mortgage Burning Ceremony. Following this, a mortgage was secured for a new parsonage at 521 Woodland Drive, which the congregation was blessed to liquidate quickly in just three years.
After purchasing additional property in 1989, the church faced adversity when Hurricane Erin severely damaged the auxiliary structure and the nursery, leading to their demolition. This challenge birthed a renewed vision: the Family Life Center. After continuous prayer, a Groundbreaking Ceremony was held on August 23, 1998, for a combined Administrative Building, Nursery, and Pre-School Center. We honor the dedicated service of all who worked on this project, including the late Brothers Wilmer Briggs, T. S. Bonner, Vincent Thomas, Hobart Williams, and Sister Ethel Moore.
In 1999
In 1999, following the retirement of Rev. McNealy, Bethel welcomed its 19th pastor, Reverend Ronnie L. Clark and his family. Under his leadership, the church underwent facility upgrades, including restroom renovations, and secured governmental approval to operate the Bethel Child Development Center. Reverend Clark's vision expanded Bethel into a full-service church, establishing key designated ministries such as Benevolent, Bereavement, Transportation, Singles, Couples, Men’s, Women’s, and Youth outreach to serve the congregation and the wider Pensacola community.
In 2003
On November 29, 2003, Bishop John Hurst Adams appointed Reverend Mark E. Crutcher as Bethel's 21st pastor. Along with his wife, Reverend Juanita M. Crutcher, they brought an anointed and dedicated team to lead the church. Pastor Crutcher, a minister of vision and integrity, ushered Bethel into a significant Season of Increase, leveraging their immense spiritual gifts and skills to advance the ministries of the church and the Pensacola community.
In 2008
On November 30, 2008, Bishop McKinley Young appointed Reverend Charles A. Morris to lead Bethel. Pastor Morris brought a genuine love for God and people, anointed ministry, and expansive biblical wisdom. A strong advocate for young people, he significantly elevated the youth ministry. Under his direction, the Bethel congregation embraced the goal of becoming a "FIVE-STAR CHURCH" dedicated to excellent service and ministry.
In 2013
In September 2013, Bishop Adam J. Richardson appointed Reverend Clifton Riley to lead Bethel, alongside his wife, Reverend Sonja Riley, forming a powerful Team Ministry. Bringing a wealth of pastoral skill and experience, Pastor Riley has established a vision of intentional ministry and spiritual growth, moving Bethel to a new level of discipleship and renewed hope for the Kingdom of God. We joyfully embrace the Riley Team as we continue to advance in Christ Jesus.
