ABOUT
The Church
ABOUT
New Bethel Tampa Progressive Missionary Baptist Church
In the year 1926, Rev. G. J. Martin saw the need for another church in Belmont Heights, Hillsborough County, Tampa, Florida. He, with the help of six members, organized and established a church on Lindell Avenue where the Rev. W. D. McCall served as pastor for one year.
In 1927, Rev. G. J. Martin became pastor and the church was moved to an old building on 36th Avenue. In 1930, the church was completely destroyed by fire. Another building was purchased and the church was moved to 42nd Avenue. In 1932, Rev. Martin was called to work as a missionary. Rev. Caldwell became his successor who served as pastor for three months after which the Rev. A. L. Dixon from Rubonia, Florida became pastor, and then Rev. B. L. Bowens came to serve for one year. In 1946, Rev. E. D. Burnett became pastor and served for two years.
In 1948, Rev. L. R. Stancil was called and he led the sheep for 44 years until his death on May 4, 1992. After his demise came Elder B. F. Strange and Rev. Charles F. Burney from May 2000 to April 2001. New Bethel prayerfully continued their search for a shepherd and the Lord sent the great Rev. Reginal T. Webb from Lakeland, Florida. He faithfully worshipped with New Bethel as interim pastor for one year and was installed as pastor on February 24, 2002.
The New Bethel family has experienced much growth. The most recent progressive move was the construction of the "Family Life Center" which is located adjacent to the church. The official ground-breaking was held on Saturday, September 20, 2003. In addition, God has allowed the church to build a new sanctuary in 2019.