Shope's Bethel Church of God

Shope's Bethel Church of God is a historic congregation in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, rooted in the Church of God tradition. Founded in the 1820s by John Winebrenner, the church meets for Sunday worship at 10:00 AM and has served the community for over 150 years. Sunday 10:00 AM Worship

Shope's Bethel Church of God is a long-standing congregation in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, part of the Church of God tradition. The church traces its origins to the 1820s and the work of John Winebrenner, who founded the denomination after being locked out of a church and holding services by the Susquehanna River. The current building, located at the corner of Clover Lane and Sterling Road, was originally built as the Baumgardner's Methodist Church in the early 1800s and was purchased by the Church of God in 1858 for $400. Over the years, the church has been a central part of the community, with a bell tower built in 1920 and renovated in 1972. The church also has a historical marker outside that commemorates its past, including the burial of three ex-slaves in its graveyard. Shope's Bethel continues to serve the community with Sunday worship at 10:00 AM and has had 38 pastors over the past 150 years. Sunday 10:00 AM Worship

Shope's Bethel Church of God in Harrisburg, PA, stands as a historic congregation rooted in the Church of God tradition since the 1820s. Its long-standing presence, marked by a renovated bell tower and a preserved graveyard with ties to local history, suggests a community-focused faith legacy. First-time visitors might appreciate the clear Sunday worship schedule and the church’s blend of tradition with pastor-led engagement that connects scripture to modern life.

Pros

• Clear Sunday worship times posted for visitors
• Historic building with preserved architectural features
• Active community presence spanning over 150 years
• Renovated facilities including a 1972 bell tower upgrade
• Historical marker highlights significant local heritage
• Pastoral approach that bridges faith with contemporary themes