"We've Come This Far By Faith, Leaning on The Lord"
Our Past
1895
The New Bethel Baptist Church was organized in 1895, under the pastorate of the late Reverend Green Stemley who served until the year 1906, when he went home to be with his Lord.
This early Church was located on a site approximately where now stands Christ The King Catholic Church.
1906
The late Reverend Messiah Robbie (M. R.) Stemley, son of the first pastor, succeeded his father as pastor and immediately saw fit to move the church and rebuild it on the site where now rests the New Bethel Cemetery.
1950
During his long years as moderator, Reverend M. R. Stemley made great strides materially and spiritually. In 1950, while still under his leadership, the Church was moved and rebuilt on its present site. In 1952, he was called from labor to reward.
1952
Reverend Luther N. Stemley, was quite young in age and in the ministry when he was selected to succeed his father. He made many physical changes to the Church during his two year period as pastor.
1954
In 1954, Reverend Aubrey (A. T.) Cooper was elected to replace Reverend Luther Stemley, who left to fulfill other commitments. The Church continued to grow both spiritually and materially. In May 1964, Reverend A. T. Cooper was laid to rest.
1964
After the passing of Reverend A. T. Cooper, the Church selected another progressive young minister, Reverend Alvin Courtney Sr., who has elected pastor and served for 14 years.
During this time the name of the church was changed from New Bethel Baptist Church to Greater New Bethel Baptist Church.
GNBBC Junior Choir was reorganized and grew in numbers. This choir thrived immensely and became a staple for the youth in the church as well as the community.
1979
Reverend Charles E. Guillory was elected pastor to replace Reverend Alvin Courtney. Under his leadership the church grew spiritually and financially. He went on to serve as pastor for 7 1/2 years until he would leave to fulfill obligations at his home church.
1987
In 1987, Reverend Elijah James would be elected as the next pastor. Under his leadership construction began for the additions and renovation to the church worship center. Reverend James would serve as pastor until 1990.
1990
With the church approval Reverend Edward Harris was elected pastor. He would serve and lead the church for the next year and a half before new leadership was elected.
1992
After much consideration and prayer Reverend Chris I. Augustine, Sr. would be selected as the next pastor of Greater New Bethel. With the election of the Pastor Augustine the church rejuvenated many programs. Over the past 31 years he continues to serve as pastor today bringing leadership, dedication and devotion to the church.
1996
Greater New Bethel Baptist Church grew to be one of the leading congregations in the community. Satisfying our mission to empower individuals and families to grow in their faith and become active members of our church and the community.
1997
Greater New Bethel Praise Dancers and Teen Rap Session was organized. These organizations provided a means for the church youth to contribute during worship services.
2001
Believing that worship is a powerful way to connect with God and experience His presence in our lives, the church elected to conduct services on every Sunday to fulfill its spiritual growth.
2019
In August of 2019 the church held its final church service in the present sanctuary and set forth plans to construct a new church on the site. Since September 2019 the church began to hold its worship services with its sister church, Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, Cottonport, LA.
2024
After unforeseen circumstances, with an abundance of prayers, and immeasurable deliberation, plans have been approved and construction for the new sanctuary began on February 17, 2024 with a groundbreaking ceremony.