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Bethel A.M.E. Church Columbus, Ohio-History

 

Early roots (AME movement background)

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Bethel AME Church in Columbus is part of the broader African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, a denomination founded in 1787 by Richard Allen in response to racial discrimination in Methodist congregations. The AME Church was created to provide independent Black worship and community leadership, emphasizing spiritual, social, and educational uplift.

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2021 Cleveland Ave Columbus, Ohio 43211

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Founding and early development in Columbus

The specific Columbus congregation that became Bethel AME traces its origins to the early 20th century:

  • It began as a mission connected to another AME congregation (sometimes referred to as Wayman Chapel).

  • The group acquired property at 439 Parsons Avenue and was called Third A.M.E. Church.

  • In 1926, the name changed to Parsons A.M.E. Church.

  • In 1927, under Rev. J. E. Kendall, it was renamed Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church.

  • During this period, the congregation:

  • Purchased land at 387 S. Washington Avenue

  • Built a church building there

  • Grew under a series of pastors and AME bishops

Growth and community role (mid-20th century onward)

Like many AME churches, Bethel became more than just a place of worship. It served as:

  • A center for Black religious life in Columbus

  • A hub for community programs, education, and outreach

  • A space for social support and civic engagement

The AME tradition emphasizes ministering to the “social, spiritual, and physical development of all people,” which shaped Bethel’s activities in Columbus.

Move to Cleveland Avenue (current location)

At some point later in the 20th century (exact date not widely documented online), the congregation relocated to its current site:

  • 2021 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43211

The church at this location has:

  • Served generations of families in North Columbus

  • Maintained traditional AME worship alongside community services

  • Continued as part of the 3rd Episcopal District of the AME Church

Present-day identity

Today, Bethel AME Church is described as:

  • A longstanding neighborhood church with “deep-rooted traditions” and multi-generational membership

  • A congregation offering:

    • Worship services

    • Bible study

    • Choir and ministries

    • Community outreach programs

It continues to reflect the historic AME mission of combining faith, social justice, and community service.

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