Our Story

Bethel has a long and beautiful history of God faithfully leading our church for over 130 years here in Galesburg, IL.  As our country, cultures, and communities have transformed over the years our commitment to the Gospel of Jesus remains firm.  Our methods and ministries may change but the message of hope in Jesus has never wavered.  As a church we want to celebrate our past, embrace the present, and engage the future.  Bethel is truly a multigenerational church that recognizes the need to actively bring the hope and healing of Jesus to our community and to the ends of the world.

Bethel Baptist Church is a community of Christians who joyfully worship God, and who actively seek out unchurched people to help them become authentic followers of Jesus Christ.

Reach
Reach people with the love and grace of God in Jesus
Restore
Restore hope by developing people to become authentic followers of Jesus
Release
Release people to serve and lead in faithful ministry for Jesus

Bethel is a member of Converge MidAmerica, a multicultural movement of leaders and churches that multiplies churches in the United States. For more information, visit

Bethel has a rich history. While we love our roots and we stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before us, we look intently at where we are going. If you are interesting in knowing our history you can read about it down below.