In the 1950s, several members of First Baptist Church of Mt. Washington recognized the need for a Baptist mission in the Flatlick Road area. The initial work began under Pastor Herman Jacobs, and those plans became a reality under the leadership of Pastor L. Alfred Sparkman.
A Mission Committee was formed in 1959, and services began in the Shelburn home on November 1, 1959. The mission was named Bethany on March 6, 1960. In March 1965, Bethany Baptist Mission became a member of the Nelson Baptist Association and became self-supporting.
In June 1965, the congregation adopted a constitution and bylaws to formally establish its beliefs, organization, and other matters of church life. On July 4, 1965, the membership gathered to sign the Charter. With 109 members, Bethany Baptist Mission officially became Bethany Baptist Church on July 25, 1965.
J. Neal Gish assumed the pastorate of Bethany in April 2017. Prior to coming to Bethany, Neal had served as Community Spiritual Director for the Walk to Emmaus and as an auxiliary minister at Little Flock Baptist Church. He had also traveled widely in his role as a corporate executive.
Earlier in his ministry, Neal pastored churches in Central Kentucky and served in numerous other churches throughout the Southeast. Since his arrival at Bethany, reestablishing a strong foundation on Scripture has been a guiding emphasis. The Lord has blessed Bethany with a solid foundation from which to grow.
More important than numbers, programs, and structures is the foundation of the spiritual life of Bethany Baptist Church. That foundation includes sound biblical doctrine, spiritual leadership, and active service. We are convinced that God will bless those who remain faithful to Him and His Word.