A small group of members out of First Baptist Church South Hill had a vision to advance the spiritual life in the Berkley section of Norfolk. Bethany Baptist Church was organized on October 8, 1959 in the home of Mrs. Minnie Madrey at 410 Berkley Avenue with 100 charted members.

 

As God invoked his blessing and guidance, members sought to find a church building in November 1959. A church edifice was purchased at 523 Chestnut Street in the Berkley section of Norfolk. In 1982 the building was acquired by the Virginia Highway Department, therefore the church continued to have services at the Teamsters Union Local #822 located at 5718 Bartee Street in Norfolk.

 

In 1985, the Lord blessed us to erect a new edifice at our present location of 2587 Campostella Rd. in the city of Chesapeake. We commenced our first service at this location on Sunday, March 2, 1986.

 

As the congregation had a mind to work in 1996 due to growing membership a new edifice was built that could accommodate over 1,000 worshipers. In 2008 a larger fellowship hall and learning center was built at the present location.

 

From the old church to the new, we have a great sense of gratitude and give thanks to God and to the devout Christians who organized this church and built it on the promises of God who is still allowing his spirit to dwell among us. May this church stand as a living landmark of our Savior who died that all men might live.