HISTORY OF BETHLEHEM BAPTIST CHURCH
Bethlehem Baptist Church was founded in 1893 when Rev. Branch Jackson and a small group of dedicated Christians came together with a vision to strengthen moral character, promote learning, and build a spiritual home rooted in the gospel. Their first worship space—located in Sweet Home Alley in Richmond’s East End—became a place of fervent prayer, powerful revivals, and deep fellowship. Early leaders such as Deacon John Pegram, Deacon Frank Walker, and several devoted trustees laid the foundation for a ministry that would endure for generations.
As Bethlehem grew, the congregation moved from Sweet Home Alley to Buchanan Street in 1907, expanding ministries, establishing auxiliaries, and cultivating a strong Sunday School program. Under the long and fruitful leadership of Rev. Henry Randolph, numerous church organizations flourished—including youth programs, choirs, missionary circles, and community outreach efforts. Rev. Randolph’s tenure strengthened the spiritual life of the church and inspired many members to take active roles in ministry.
In the decades that followed, Bethlehem continued to thrive under pastors such as Rev. Blanch Brown and Rev. John Bishop Gordon, who guided major building improvements, expanded worship ministries, and helped grow the congregation’s presence in the community. Under Rev. Gordon, Bethlehem acquired the historic Fairmount Avenue Methodist Church property, which became the congregation’s home for more than 50 years. Rev. Gordon also oversaw the development of youth groups, mission programs, and expansions to the sanctuary and educational building.
The leadership of Dr. Victor L. Davis, who became Bethlehem’s sixth pastor in 1989, further strengthened the church’s mission work, youth ministries, and community programs. His vision helped expand the church’s facilities, elevate global missions, and deepen Bethlehem’s role as a beacon of hope and faith in the Richmond area.
In recent years, Bethlehem entered a significant period of transition. Following Rev. Davis’s departure, Rev. Dr. J. Elisha Burke served faithfully as Transitional Pastor for four years, guiding the church with wisdom, compassion, and steady leadership. His ministry helped stabilize the congregation, strengthen its ministries, and prepare the church for its next season of growth and renewal.
Bethlehem’s latest chapter began with the call of Rev. George E. Brown, who was formally installed as Senior Pastor on November 9. Rev. Brown brings over two decades of pastoral experience, a deep passion for preaching and teaching, and a heart for intergenerational ministry. His leadership aligns with Bethlehem’s mission to serve Christ, uplift the community, and build a strong spiritual home for future generations.
Today, more than 130 years after its founding, Bethlehem Baptist Church continues to stand as “the church in the heart of the city with the city in our hearts”—a congregation committed to worship, discipleship, service, and the transformative power of Jesus Christ.
