Bethel AME Church

Mission: To prepare our members and visitors to receive the word of God by extending a warm and sincere greeting to each person as they make their way to the sanctuary.

Sister Joyce Peaco, Greeters Coordinator

The Greeter's Ministry provides a vital role in making our members and friends feel at home. It is our belief that a "simple" greeting will provide the necessary framework for each member to get their minds and hearts "stayed on Jesus" and ready to accept the message that will be forthcoming today. This ministry realizes that we are the FIRST contact as people enter the church so we prepare ourselves with prayer as our foundation, that we will be a blessing to those we greet.

The Host and Hostess Ministry evolved from a dedicated group of devoted male servants who greeted people as they approached Bethel church during the leadership of Rev. Seymour H. Barker (1939-1949) until Rev. Ruffin Noisette (1951-1965). Under the leadership of Rev. James Dandridge (1965-1972), Sister Octavia Dandridge organized the Hostess Ministry in the late 1960s. This ministry was developed to foster an inviting and compassionate spirit of hospitality at Bethel Church, shaping the spirit of "The Church That Cares".

The ministry is in operation, not only on "Sunday mornings but also at other special church events such as Loyalty Day, Annual Conference when it is held at Bethel, New Year's Eve Service, Red, White and Blue Luncheon, Senior Choir Cantata, Usher's Memorial Service at Bethel, Annual Lay Day and special days such as Host and Hostess Annual Day.