The parishioners of Bethel United Methodist Church in Coweta County are planning a Fall Festival for the last weekend in October and invite the community to celebrate with them. Members of the white frame church on Luther Bailey Road, about six miles outside of Senoia, have a special celebration in mind. Their church building is celebrating its centennial year.

Although the church was founded in 1836, construction of a permanent building in which to worship didn't begin until 1895. Members used hand-hewn lumber from trees at the church site, and building construction took five years to complete. Congregation members worshipped in the building on Sunday and children attended school in the same building during the week. The school was closed in the mid-1920's and has not operated since.

The building has received some modernization over the last 100 years. The ceiling was lowered and tiled, carpeted runners were installed , new cushions were provided for the pews, and gas heaters and ceiling fans were installed to provide modern comforts. The building retains its original charm from the stained glass windows and bead-board interior. Parishioners believe it to be the oldest place of continuous worship in the Senoia area.

To celebrate the building's centennial, the community is invited to join the congregation for a barbecue luncheon on the church grounds. Serving will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 28, and will continue until 5 p.m. In addition to enjoying the food, community members are invited to tour the church, join in with the hymn singing, bob for apples, join the other games or simply enjoy the fall weather and socialize with others. The Bethel fall festival and centennial celebration will be held regardless of weather conditions.

The Reverend T.G. Hall conducts services every Sunday at 9:30 am in the church. New members and visitors are always welcome.

Back to the Top of the PageBack to the Religion Home Page