Bethel Church of Christ in rural Ada will celebrate their 150th anniversary on Sunday, Sept. 15.
Bethel was formed when William Park donated land to a group of Disciples of Christ Christians in 1869 and a church building was erected on what is now County Road 304 and Township Road 56.
In 1913 a new building was built and the original one room building was torn down. Today this building still serves as part of the existing worship center and classroom space downstairs.
In 1968 it was decided that Bethel would sever ties to the Disciples of Christ denomination. This decision made Bethel an autonomous independent congregation affiliated with other independent Christian Churches and Churches of Christ.
Expansion was needed over the years and in 1994 a Family Life Center with gym was constructed and a new education wing was added to the north side of the building in 2003.
"Bethel will celebrate with a special “Heritage Day” to remember the faithful Christians who have come before us, and looking forward to an incredible future as the family of God," said Randy Allen, senior pastor.
Sunday's events include 9:30 a.m. coffee and fellowship; 10 a.m. an old-fashion worship service, including a tribute to the “Bethelaires” quartet. Following the service there will be a meal and fun for persons attending.
