Our History
Our History
The Mount Bethel Baptist Church Inc. (MBBC) first organized in 1929 by Rev. Joseph S. Stevens. Initially founded in Harlem, the church has a wonderful history of service in Northern Manhattan and the South Bronx.
MBBC was incorporated in June 1937 and moved to various locations over the ensuing years until finding a permanent home at 112 West 116 Street in April 1952 . On January 1, 1971, fire destroyed our Church and after renovations we returned to our building in February 1972.
MBBC sold its first location in 2003. Without their own space, they rented at 1854 Amsterdam Avenue, Harlem, NY. In March 2006 Rev. Dr .Gloria Bradshaw was installed as Pastor of Mt. Bethel Baptist Church. Despite initial challenges, their membership grew and now counted over 100 members. With this resurgence in numbers and in faith, MBBC decided to look for a permanent home.
Under the continued leadership of Rev. Dr. Gloria Bradshaw, MBBC looked north towards the Bronx. Rev. Dr. Gloria Bradshaw served in various posts before her current role as Pastor and Chief Executive of MBBC. She had a long career in the financial industry before her call to service.
Under Reverend Bradshaw’s guidance, MBBC purchased an old firehouse building at 698 Courtlandt Avenue, Bronx, New York. The decision to move to the Bronx made sense, as numerous church members call this borough home.
Down through the years our church has experienced many changes, however, we have always continued to keep our faith and never let go. Now that God has blessed us with a new home, our hope and prayer is that we hold on being steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the works of the Lord.
Rev. Joseph S. Stevens, Organizer of MBBC