Bethel Church has played a significant role in the community by reaching out to youth and thousands of families as a result of the pastor’s vison to help. When Pastor John McCall saw pain in the community, he responded by starting the D’Veal family services, serving over a thousand families. The church has also partnered with the city to expand God's work by providing showers and laundry for those in need. Their Vacation Bible School outreach has extended to the community and especially the Boys & Girls club, their nearest neighbor.
Bethel Missionary Baptist Church had its beginning in February 1959 under the leadership of Rev. Freeman S. Stevens with seventeen members on roll. In August, the Bethel family began to hold service with Dr. J.W. Coleman at Community Baptist Church, 1157 North Fair Oaks Avenue in Pasadena. On September 25, 1959, a meeting was called to discuss the small frame house located at 1972 North Fair Oaks in Pasadena. After much discussion and negotiation for the property, Rev. Stevens and members moved into the small frame house in December 1959. Their first service was held on January 3, 1960. Mr. Luther Eskijian, a licensed architect, drew plans for the new church home and worked tirelessly throughout the construction.
On May 22, 2005, Minister John T. McCall was installed as Pastor of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. Under Pastor McCall’s leadership, Evangelism classes were implemented, and technology was upgraded. Pastor McCall instituted “Wednesday Family Night” which includes Bible Study, dinner, Youth Fellowship, teacher’s meetings, and choir rehearsal.