SC H5453

South Carolina House Resolution congratulates Bethlehem Baptist Church, College Place on its 130th anniversary of ministry and service to the community

The church was founded in 1896 by descendants of enslaved people who worshiped under a brush arbor, with land purchased in 1908 for $50 from Henry Wiley to establish its first permanent structure

After a fire destroyed the church building in 1942, the congregation rebuilt beginning in 1943, and an educational building was completed in 1969

Reverend C.A. Faulk led the church for 31 years (1969-2000), overseeing construction of the present sanctuary, new baptismal pool, and expanded ministries

Current pastor Reverend Dr. Anthony A. McCallum has led since 2002, establishing ministries for the hearing impaired, veterans, mental health awareness, youth development, and Christian education