Established: May 1930
Purpose/Mission Statement: Since its humble beginnings the mission of the Pastor’s Aide Ministry has always been to support and help strengthen the programs of the Pastor.
Scripture: How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard ? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
Meeting Day: The Pastor’s Aide Ministry meets on an as needed basis.
History
The ministry formed in May 1930, when a group of women got together and brainstormed ideas to help compensate Pastor Saunders for his services. As cash funds were limited in those days, a dozen eggs here and or a sack of flour there was often how the Church said “thank you” to Reverend Saunders. The women who formed the first Pastor’s Aide Ministry began selling dinners to help pay the Pastor’s salary. However, Reverend Saunders, understanding fully the financial position of the Church and its members, used the funds to keep Bethany going. His spiritual and fiscal benevolence helped to focus and direct the activities of those first members, just as the spiritual and fiscal benevolence Pastor Emeritus Bright and vision of Pastor Myron D. Barnes helps to guide and direct the present members.
Past Presidents of the Pastor’s Aid Ministry were Geraldine Saunders-Briggs, Edna Saunders, Lottie Hall, and Blanche Gillison. Gwen Watkins is the ministry’s current President.
If you are interested in joining this ministry, please see Mrs. Gwen Watkins for more information.