Our History

Bethany’s story as a church begins 100 years ago. Here are some of the highlights from our community's past:

• Early 1900s: Our story begins around 1900, when settlers in the newly incorporated City of Ballard start a mission to the local Native Americans.
• 1916: Bethany Baptist Church forms at 61st & 20th Streets in Ballard
• 1956: Becomes non-denominational Bethany Assembly
• 1957: John and Ione McCullough begin 37 years of ministry at Bethany
• 1960: Church draws many students from SPU and UW
• 1969: Moves to the current location at North 80th and Stone Ave.
• 1971: Name changes to Bethany Community Church
• 1980: Building across the street purchased; becomes the Christian Education Building
• 1995: Richard and Donna Dahlstrom begin ministry in December
• 2005: Regular attendance outgrows Chapel Building
• 2008: First Sunday in the new Sanctuary on Stone Avenue
• 2010: Official launch of Bethany North and Bethany West Seattle
• 2012: 20•20 Vision sets the stage for congregations across Seattle
• 2014: Official launch of Bethany Northeast and Bethany Eastside
• 2015: Official launch of Bethany Ballard; Richard and Donna Dahlstrom celebrate 20 years of ministry at Bethany
• 2016: Demolition of the CE Building, construction begins on the new Community Life Center
• 2017: Community Life Center opens as a new, fully accessible ministry space