Pastor Rosie Summers, born in Monticello, Arkansas, was deeply involved in the Baptist Church before following God’s call. After being baptized in Jesus’ Name, she joined Christ Temple Pentecostal Church and married Deacon George Summers. In 1948, with a heart full of faith and a vision to lead, she founded Bethel Pentecostal Church in Kansas City, MO, alongside her sister Vashti. The church grew with humble beginnings, overcoming challenges like urban renewal and flooding, becoming a beacon of hope under Pastor Summers’ leadership.

​

In 1974, Pastor Summers passed the mantle to Elder Kenneth Neal, who established outreach ministries and led the first Holy Convocation, marking a time of renewal for the church. As new leaders like Elder Reuben K. Johnson expanded community services, Bethel continued its mission, embracing its growing role in the city. n 2004, Pastor Jathan K. Austin brought a vision of restoration and growth, laying the foundation for further expansion. Today, under Bishop A. Glenn Brady’s leadership, New Bethel has flourished; now located at 745 Walker Ave, New Bethel continues to transform lives rooted in faith and service.

​

The story of the New Bethel Church is one of resilience and triumph, a living testament to God’s grace. “We are not a Mega-Church… just a growing church trying to make a Mega-Impact!”