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Bethlehem Baptist Church Grandview, Texas Vendor Booth Information Bethlehem Baptist Chuch of Grandview welcomes you to our community! During Antique Alley we participate by selling delicious smoked sausage on a stick, home baked goods made by our friends, family and fellow church members and ice cold soft drinks and bottled water. We are located in downtown Grandview in the very heart of the show. We also collect aluminum cans for recycling. Any donations to our church are greatly appreciated. We designate funds raised during Antique Alley for our youth programs and building maintenance fund. We appreciate your patronage and invite you to worship with us when you visit Grandview. Business Information 305 N. Third Street Grandview, Texas 76050 Business:                       Fax: Point of Contact: Reverend William Bradford, Pastor Website: Email: HISTORICAL HIGHLIGHTS Bethlehem Baptist Church was organized in 1884. According to Myrtle Matlock, prior to the organization of this church, many black baptists attended services at the First Baptist Church. In 1884 a group of black deacons organized this house of worship. According to Inez Hardy, the land for the church was purchased from the late Oscar Wilkirson. The first church was built facing Bois D'Arc Street (better known as "Back Street"). The church was built by church members and members of the community. Sis. Matlock said, "In the good old days, the members appreciated and respected the pastor. They also respected each other. The deacons took responsibilty for all the work in the church. They willingly gave of their time and contributed freely to continue the Lord's work". Early records show that in 1914 Miss Jessie H.B. Matlock was corresponding secretary of the Young Peoples Auxiliary of the Baptist Missionary and Educational Convention. In 1944, she was co-director of the Friendship District Branch of this organization and also state director. She was from Bethlehem Baptist Church and the Friendship district. In 1920 the church was destroyed in the fire that burned the town of Grandview. The church was rebuilt on 1921. Reverend F.B. Williams was pastor at the time. In 1923, the cornerstone was laid, Rev. C.H. Pryor was pastor and according to Mrs. Inez, "he was a good man". The church grew, many fellowships and revivals were held and he was pastor for eleven years. In the early years the church had a balcony. Sis. Matlock said the music from the choir in the balcony was beautiful. She said revivals would go on for weeks. The church would be filled every night with people singing, praying and shouting and many souls were saved. In 1946 the church was rebuilt under the leadership of Rev. O. Attoway. The balcony was removed at that time. We have had many great pastors. Rev. W.M. Hardy, "a hometown boy", served for several years. The church was renovated at that time. The membership was inspired by his enthusiasm. Sis. Elmira Matlock worked faithfully at Bethlehem and is remembered by at least four generations of members at Bethlehem for her services. Mrs. Etta Mae Brown was a member of Bethel A.M.E. but did great work in this church as well. Sis. Lula Mae Matthews served in many auxiliaries of the church for many years. Sis. Laura Ann Higgins was a long time Sunday School Teacher. The list is a long one, but all their names hang in the lobby of the church. In 1991 Rev. Bradford was sent to us. Reverend Bradford arrived at a time when Bethlehem was being held together by only a few faithful members. He has been steadfast and unmovable. He is friendly and humble. Through these qualities and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, he came in contact with members of the community who knew of funds available to completely renovate the building. With no deacons he established a board of directors of our older members. Through donations of the Alton and Faye Talbert Foundation this building was completely renovated. The church also received generous donations from Hemphill Construction, David's Supermarkets, Daisy Brown and many individuals. While working on the church building, Rev. Bradford continues to work on our spiritual buildings. His dedication and strength can only be credited to his guidance by the Holy Spirit. He continues to encourage us to grow and to maintain Bethlehem as a bright and shining light for our Lord and Savior. We have come to this house of worship since 1884 to worship and receive Christian training. Bethlehem Baptist Church exists to provide for spiritual growth and eduacation. We engage in Christian fellowship, therefore strengthening citizenship, enhancing love for one another, and encouraging the family concept. We thank God for Bethlehem and pray for the Lord's continued guidance. Bethlehem Baptist Church comes from a history of dedicated christians who loved the Lord. Sometimes if you walk into the church and it's really quiet, you can't help but remember the melodious humming of old hymns and the rhythmic patting of feet on the bare wooden floors.