About Us

1956 — A New Church is Born

Bethany United Church of Christ is founded to serve the growing Preston Highway corridor. The first worship service is held on Pentecost Sunday in the cafeteria of Southern High School. Later that year, ninety-five charter members officially organize the congregation, choosing the name Bethany to reflect a place of welcome, friendship, and faith.

1959–1980s — A Sanctuary and a Thriving Community

Bethany moves into its permanent sanctuary on Old Preston Highway, and the now-iconic tile mosaic of Christ is installed on the front of the building, becoming a symbol of Bethany’s open-armed welcome. Over the next two decades, Bethany grows into a vibrant neighborhood church with ministries for children, families, and adults. These include a weekday kindergarten, summer day camp, youth fellowship, and adult education programs. Members also contribute handcrafted worship features—such as the chancel screen of Christian symbols—that continue to shape Bethany’s identity as a steady, multigenerational community of faith.

1994–2010 — Expanding Our Space and Mission

As ministry needs grow, Bethany breaks ground on a major building addition in 1994. The new space is completed and dedicated in 1995, becoming a central hub for classes, meals, celebrations, and community gatherings. The mortgage is fully paid and ceremonially burned in 2004, celebrating years of generosity and shared commitment.

During this period, Bethany deepens its community partnerships. The Refugee Agricultural Partnership Program (RAPP) begins gardening on church property, offering land and support to Somali Bantu refugees building new lives in Louisville. Bethany also hosts recovery groups, shares space with partner congregations, and continues upgrading its facilities for accessibility, safety, and vibrant worship. The Young Ambassadors program nurtures youth leadership and engagement. Bethany celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2006 and its 60th in 2016, honoring the generations who have shaped its ministry.

2025 — A New Chapter Begins

After many years of faithful service, Rev. Ann Houlette retires in October 2025. Rev. Cristal Encarnación begins serving as Interim Pastor, guiding Bethany through a season of discernment, renewal, and imagining the future God is calling forth.