New Bethel AME Church is the product of an Idea that was put into action! At its inception, New Bethel was an idea in the mind of Hattie Grasty, a devout African Methodist whose desire for an active fellowship in her community, led to the gathering of several other Methodists who shared the same desire. The founding families and individuals were Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Clark, Mr. and Mrs. Tilghman, Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Williams, Mrs. Sally Henry, Mrs. Annie Harvey, Mrs.Grace Simmons, and Nannie Robinson.

 

Continuing with the organizing of the Crestmont area fellowship of AfricanMethodists, Hattie Grasty contacted Reverend John Whalen of LaMott A.M.E.Church of PA so that further instruction and organization could be obtained. Reverend Whalen instructed Hattie Grasty to secure a building for worship and consented to serve as religious leader for the fellowship. The task of securing an edifice for worship was not simple. The fellowship met and worshipped in the home of Mr. and Mrs.Williams (Nathaniel) while the property located on the corner of Rubicam and WashingtonAvenues became available for use. The fellowship, now a newly formed Church, met in this rent-ed facility under the leadership of Reverend John Whalen. The facility was later purchased for$1, 000.00. Donations for furniture had been obtained from neighbors in the Crestmont area through the work of Mrs. Flora Dempsey (Hattie Grasty’s mother). A donated organ, pulpit, and chairs were obtained through the efforts of Reverend Whalen via LaMott A.M.E. Church. The first worship service was held on Sunday, September 20, 1918, in the building on Rubicam and Washington Avenues by Rev J. A. Brown and Rev. John Whalen. Attendees were: Mrs. ElmiraClark, Mrs. Flora Dempsey, Mr. Charles Grasty, Mrs. Hattie Grasty, and Mrs. Nannie Robinson. The church prospered both spiritually and financially.

 

Hattie Grasty named the church New Bethel; it was dedicated by Bishop W. H. Heard and admitted into the Philadelphia Annual Conference in May 1919.

 

New Bethel AME Church (Willow Grove) was well underway; the land where the present church stands, 1646 Prospect Avenue, was paid for by Presiding Elder W. S. Drummond. A beautiful church edifice was erected, dedicated, and then later occupied in 1928. Through the tireless efforts of members, the mortgage was fully paid, however, New Bethel members faced hardship as the property was lost during the great depression. New Bethel’s testimony is strong, God is truly faithful! The congregation was able to repurchase the church and it was beautifully renovated. By the grace of God, the church continued to prosper through the able leadership of pastors who served the congregation at New Bethel.

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