200th Anniversary
Bethel A.M.E. Pennington NJ

Recorded by Thelma Hoagland Parks
current Church Mother

Although the once brick building was renovated in 1950, three original windows can still be seen, centered over the church's entryway. As part of the renovations, the building was lifted from the foundation and a cellar was built underneath. Prior to this, the sanctuary was down on the ground and heated by a pot-bellied stove.
 
Some of the many families and descendants who passed through the doors of Bethel, include namely: the Jennings, Hoagland, Smith, Driver, Boyer, Allen, Myers, Dunn, Seruby, Clark, Witcher, Martin, Pierson, Cain, McElroy, McAchen, Daniels, True, Jackson, Blackstone, Taylor, Nevius and Hubbard families. Throughout the years, Bethel was the center of religious and social events for its members. It was the scene for many "chicken and waffle dinners" and "doggie roasts" (which were hosted by Bethel's men's groups). Bethel has always been known for having outstanding cooks! The Harvest Home Dinners were the "event of the year!" The woman cooked every kind of food that you could think of! There was usually a dinner before this dinner to raise money to purchase the meats. Back in those days, most families had gardens, so most of the vegetables came from gardens of church members. People would come from all over the area to enjoy the delicious food!
 
Throughout the years, women especially, would attend the NJ Annual Conference. This was a special time for them, as it was probably one of a few times they were able to spend time away from their homes. They would stay in the homes of anyone they knew that lived in the area of where the conference was being held.
 
Early in Bethel's history, the church parsonage was located on Main Street in Pennington. Later, property on Crawley Avenue was purchased, which is where the church parsonage is still located.
 
Over the years nearly 30 pastors have served and made vast contributions to the spiritual, social and economic development of the Pennington community. Pastors who served at Bethel Pennington include: The Reverends J.E. Groves, J.F. Frazier, W.G. Fleming, I. W. A. Roundtree who was a graduate of Oxford University in England and served twice as pastor. F. L. Kelly, C.F. Milton, L. James, W. White, J. Oliver, A. Henley, F. Stephens, A. Stephens, N.S. Pharms, B.W. White, J.C. McWade, P.S. Singleton, A.A. Averhart, R.R. Blackstone, V. Leak, (current New Brunswick District Presiding Elder in the AME Church) J. Norwood, M. L. Guyton (who was Presiding Elder in the A.M.E. Church), The Rev. Dr. Tom Hills served the longest pastorate, having served 17 years between 1992 and 2009. On October 4, 1996, a ground breaking service was held, under Rev. Hills' leadership for the new addition which included a ramp for the access of physically impaired members and two additional bathrooms. The project was started by Evangelist Euwanda B. Jennings. On June 22, 1997, a dedication service was held, in honor of the project's completion.
 
The Rev. Bertha Williams followed Dr. Hills, serving as the first female pastor in Bethel's history. In addition, under Rev. Williams charge the restoration of the Fellowship Hall and Kitchen was completed in 2009. Bethel raised money and received a very generous donation from an anonymous "friend of Bethel". Rev. Williams husband was Evangelist Freddie Williams who was advisor to the missionary society, chairperson of Men's Day, and the Evangelist Service. Bro. Charles Jennings played the organ for the choir and church services. He followed in his father's brother Donald Jennings who was musical director for Bethel for seventy two years and went on to glory in June 2011. Sister Mable Sample, our church mother with to be with the Lord in November 2010, at age 103. Rev. J. Morrison served as pastor for about year or so after Rev. Williams. Under Rev. Morrison the kitchen and dining area was completed and dedicated in 2012. We thank Brother Charles Jennings for all of his hard work and time he spent on this project.
 

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