Bethel Community Baptist Church was founded...

October 15th 1950, by Pastor McCorkle, an old rail road man. The church began its ministry as a mission of the First Baptist Church in Tucson. It was later dedicated October 15, 1950, as a Conservative Baptist Church by Pastor C. W. McCorkle, the first pastor. He also served as a railroad conductor and ministered at the Southern Pacific Hospital.

Throughout the years we have ministered to families and individuals through prayers, Sunday School, sports, activities for all ages and avenues for people to minister and serve the Lord.

Over the last 50 years we have had eight different pastors, each bringing special and unique abilities to the church and it's ministry.

Our Pastors

We were founded by Pastor McCorkle in 1950
Since then we have had eight pastors

Pastor Claud & Annie McCorkle 1948-65

Pastor McCorkle founded and was the first pastor of Bethel Baptist Church. He and his wife Annie also founded Tanque Verde Baptist and Palo Verde Baptist churches.

Pastor Robert E. Hilderman 1965-68

Pastor Hilderman and his wife are currently in northern Arizona working with the Indians there.

Pastor Robert Dalrymple 1966-67

Pastor James Nelson 1978-87

Pastor Clint Ayers 1987-89

Pastor Kent Krakowian 1990-92

Pastor Kerkowian was responsible for our redecorating our auditorium including air conditioning, carpeting and padded bench seats to replace the old theater style folding seats. Pastor Kerkowian has gone on to work with the Timothy foundation. It is a ministry that helps struggling churches to get back on their feet and fruitful again.

Pastor John Hunt 1993-98

Pastor Hunt was the youngest pastor to serve at Bethel. Known for being a good Gospel preacher he remained faithful in his presentations.

Pastor Gary Smyth 1999 -

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