Bethel Presbyterian Church Fundraising Campaign
Bethel Presbyterian Church
1900 West York Street, Philadelphia, PA 19132
Come and see what God has done ... Psalm 66:5
November 2026
Since our letter a year ago sharing plans to update and renovate Bethel's building, much has
happened! Thanks to the generosity of so many, our fundraising campaign exceeded its goal,
allowing us to complete many additional projects beyond those originally planned.
Although our initial hope was simply to replace the roof during the year, we are excited to share
the many improvements that have been completed:
The roof and skylights have been completely replaced.
Sagging floor joists beneath the Pastor's Study and Choir Room have been replaced.
A new emergency exit door has been installed to provide safe egress from Fellowship
Hall.
A new heating system has been installed.
Unsafe sidewalk slabs have been replaced.
New shelving has been installed for food storage.
Necessary electrical repairs have been completed.
Stair treads leading to the Sanctuary and Fellowship Hall have been replaced.
Bethel Presbyterian Church was recognized for its food ministry at the African
American Heritage Celebration in January.
Bethel Presbyterian Church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in March.
Meanwhile, Bethel's outreach to the community continues to grow! Each Thursday, the church
now serves an average of more than 225 people through its food bag ministry and provides
community meals to more than 70 people. Additional outreach includes clothing and essential
items such as shoes, underwear, and diapers; school supplies; food boxes for senior citizens;
lunches for school children during the summer; and numerous other community programs.
While many projects remain ahead, significant progress has been made, and numerous building
issues have been addressed and resolved. Our focus is now turning toward preparing the
Sanctuary and other rooms to welcome the community back inside.
We hope you will share in our excitement and continue to support this important work as you
are able. Together, we can complete these renovations and ensure that Bethel continues to be a
beacon of God's love to all.
Thank you for your generosity, encouragement, and continued support of this remarkable
church and the historic building with which God has blessed this congregation. With your help,
Bethel can continue serving, uplifting, and bringing joy to the community for generations to
come!
Blessing
