Bethel Lutheran
celebrates 165+ years
Our History
In March of 1851
The Rev. Jacob Crim organized Bethel Lutheran Church. Our church family began its life in March, 1851 with 21 members. They worshiped at the Franklin Presbyterian Church—a building located inside the present Franklin Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Synodical records first contain the name Bethel Evangelical Lutheran Church in 1854.
1850s
The first church building which was constructed in 1854 was a small frame structure located at the site of the present cemetery. Wooden shutters covered the windows and a stone wall surrounded both the church and the cemetery. This wall was replaced with a wire fence, which was also later removed.
As a small village known as “Zeb” grew west of the church, Bethel’s growing congregation necessitated a larger structure. A new house of worship was proposed to be built in the village; but this site met with opposition. A compromise was reached to build the new church midway between the old site and the village. This second building, started in 1880 and built by Samuel S. Carter, was a frame structure, 40 x 60 feet, painted white, and heated by a wood stove on each side of the building. This church was completed in 1883 and dedicated, free of debt, on April 29, 1883. In 1928 transepts were added, giving it more of the appearance of a cruciform church.
1880s
In 1882 it was recommended by the North Carolina Synod that Bethel and St. Paul’s become one charge. The Rev. V. Strickley was the first pastor to serve both congregations. A house and lot was purchased in 1891 for Bethel and St. Paulís parsonage. This house, now a private residence, still stands on the New Mocksville Road (Highway 601) in Franklin.
On Dec. 31, 1939, the joint relationship between Bethel and St. Paul’s ended and both churches became self-supporting. The years following were difficult for Bethel since the congregation was small and more responsibilities and duties were required of the pastor and the members. Those were also war years with many of the congregation members away in the armed forces or working at defense jobs.
1930s & 1940s
In 1930 a constitution and by-laws were written for the government and direction of the church. These documents were presented to the congregation for approval on Aug. 21, 1930 and adopted on the following Sunday.
Work began on the present Bethel parsonage in March, 1949 and was completed in May, 1951. Total construction costs were $10,700. Repairs and improvements have been made through the years.
During the 1940s the congregation realized the need for a more modern worship and educational facility. A building program was adopted and in 1956 an educational building which included a worship center as the sanctuary was completed at a cost of $67,000.
1970s
The congregation broke ground for its current “Houses of God” on June 16, 1972. Modern in design, the building adheres to Lutheran tradition. The nave has a free standing altar and hanging cross. An outstanding feature is the windows of faceted, brilliantly colored glass, cut to shape and size for special effect. They are especially beautiful on sunny Sunday mornings. Total cost of the project, which included sanctuary, paving and remodeling was $225,000. Dedication was held on June 17, 1973.
1980s & Beyond
Through the years, additions and improvements to the property have enhanced the programs and services offered by the Bethel congregation to its members and the community. Among these are an outdoor worship center constructed by Jesse and Josh Hammill for Eagle Scout projects, a picnic shelter with tables, and a flag patio and benches completed by Josh Baker for his Eagle Scout project. A new sound system, organ and carpet have been installed. Choir robes for adults and children have been purchased. Recent major maintenance included a new roof, furnace replacement, sealing and re-marking the parking lot and painting in needed areas.