Restore Old Bethel: A Legacy of Faith and Heritage

Since 1872 Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, originally constructed in 1872 by renowned African American architect and builder Mr. Paul Drayton, stands as a remarkable testament to faith, resilience, and craftsmanship. This historic sanctuary is a distinguished example of late 19th-century Gothic Revival architecture and is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As our congregation grew, Bethel embraced the vision of expansion, leading to the construction of our current sanctuary on Society Road in the early 1980s. Yet, the deep roots, sacred memories, and generational connections to Old Bethel have never been forgotten.

In the early 1990s, members united with a shared vision—to restore Old Bethel. While challenges delayed that vision, the commitment has never wavered. Today, the Pastor, Officers, and Members of Bethel AME Church are moving forward in faith to restore Old Bethel as a powerful symbol of hope, heritage, and spiritual renewal. With prayer, unity, and determination, we have launched a capital campaign with a goal of $1.2 million to fully restore and preserve this historic sanctuary for generations to come. 

We welcome corporations, businesses, foundations, and organizations to invest in the restoration of Old Bethel through transformational partnership and community stewardship.

Tier I Partner — $100,000
Tier II Partner — $50,000
Tier III Partner — $25,000
Tier IV Partner — $15,000
Tier V — Any Amount

Every contribution represents an investment in faith, history, and legacy. Individual gifts help restore Old Bethel as a sacred place where worship, fellowship, service, and community transformation will continue for generations.

Tier I Legacy Gift — $10,000
Tier II Faithful Steward Gift — $5,000
Tier III Builder’s Gift — $2,500
Tier IV Covenant Commitment — $1,000 per year
Tier V Seeds of Faith — Any Amount

This restoration will:
•  Preserve a sacred piece of African American and local history
• Create a space educational enrichment for youth, community members, and tourists
•  Host special services, cultural events, celebrations, and
community gatherings
•. Reconnect generations through shared faith and fellowship

We invite you to partner with us in this meaningful work. Every gift—large or small—moves us closer to our $1.2 million goal and helps bring this vision to life. Together, we are not just restoring a building—we are reviving a legacy, renewing hope, and rebuilding a sacred space for future generations.