Our History

In 1921 fifteen people met in the home of Reverend Herbert W. Kline, 509 Third Street, N.W., for prayer. It was during this time the church grew to thirty-six members and adopted the name “Bible Hall” in January 1, 1923. The number attending the meetings soon became too large for the home and a permit was secured to hold street meetings. The group was organized as an Assembly and became affiliated with the General Council of the Assemblies of God, January 1, 1927 where it remains to this day. This was the first Pentecostal Church in Washington, D.C. to become a member of the national organization. In December 1925, Rev. Kline was elected Superintendent of the Potomac District Council. He held this office until he went to be with his Savior on July 12, 1934.

The church continued to grow and see great things happen. In January 1935, the trustees of Bible Hall incorporated and at this time changed the name to Bethel Pentecostal Tabernacle under the pastoral leadership of Reverend Harry V. Schaeffer. Years would transpire and Bethel did not have a permanent place to worship, and they continued to conduct services in rented facilities throughout the city. A strong desire and a new vision would challenge the congregation to pursue building a facility they could call their church home.  It was during this time the Reverend John Renton Hunter became pastor on November 14, 1956 and led the congregates to build their own facility. The church has since been in the epicenter of the nation’s capital and endeavors to continue to serve this city with humility and great distinction.

Over the years, many programs have been implemented to give Bethel the opportunity to evangelize the city and to reach a greater demographic.  Potter’s House was once such community outreach that grew under the leadership of the Reverend Robert L. Carter who pastored Bethel from 1989 -2007. During this time, many hearts and lives were also changed because of soul winning street rallies, food distribution efforts, and back to school back-pack campaigns.
 
 
From its inception in 1921, the mission of Bethel Pentecostal Tabernacle has been to fulfill the great commission by filling needs, healing hurts, and building dreams. A century later, we continue to run with the vision and always desiring the evidence of God’s Power, Praise, and Pentecost.
 
For more information on what we believe click here.