About us
Welcome to First Fellowship Church
First Fellowship Church is an independent church in New Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Previously known as the First United Methodist Church, the congregation disaffiliated from the United Methodist Church in 2023.
Our mission
At New Bethlehem First Fellowship Church, our mission is to glorify God through worship, prayer, and the study of His word. We are committed to fostering a loving and welcoming community, where all can grow in faith, share God’s love with others, and serve our neighbors.
We worship in a beautiful 130-year-old building, with its original hardwood and traditional worship elements still in place.
A new chapter
Introducing New Bethlehem First Fellowship Church
A pillar of faith in New Bethlehem, the First United Methodist Church has long stood as a symbol of devotion and service. Because of doctrinal differences and leadership capacities, the congregation voted to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church and become an independent congregation.
This decision was made after careful consideration and prayer, and in alignment with a new vision for the future. As an independent church, the congregation has the freedom to shape its own identity and theological direction. The true strength of a church lies not only in its theological teachings, but also in the bonds of friendship and shared experiences that bring people together.
New Bethlehem First Fellowship Church eagerly looks forward to this new chapter and the continued growth of the congregation. As we embark on this journey together, everyone is invited to experience the love, joy, and sense of belonging we share.
The congregation continues to meet for Sunday morning worship at 11:00 AM at 234 Penn Street.
Our history
Worshiping in New Bethlehem since 1838
Methodism in New Bethlehem dates back to 1838, when services were held in the log house of Phillip Hoffman, at what is now 341 Broad Street. Smith’s Schoolhouse, about half a mile out of town, was also used for services until 1848, when a school was built in New Bethlehem and services moved there.
Our first ministers were the Rev. George Reeser and the Rev. Ahab Keller, itinerant ministers out of the Curllsville Charge in 1849. Our church became a station appointment in 1901, except during 1954–1965, when Leasure Run Church was also served by the New Bethlehem pastors.
- 1853
The First United Methodist Church is built in New Bethlehem and dedicated on February 19, 1854. The plain wooden structure served the congregation for 42 years, standing where the paved parking lot behind the present church is today.
- 1896
Our present church is completed and dedicated on April 19, 1896.
- 1927
An addition is constructed.
- 1993
The Cross and Flame is added to the Lafayette Street side of the church, along with the steeple.
- 1996
The church celebrates its 100th anniversary. A cabinet is built in the narthex for a membership chain, with each link representing a member of the church.
- 1998
The double bulletin board in the front side yard is built, and the outside windows are covered with new protective glass.
- 2004
Renovation of the 65-year-old organ is completed after three years of work.
- 2005
A new roof is put on the entire church.
- 2007
The stained glass restoration project, repairing the lead in the windows, is finished.
- 2009
Work begins to replaster and paint the sanctuary and narthexes.
- 2015
A new sound system is installed.
- 2023
The church disaffiliates from the United Methodist Church over doctrinal differences and becomes New Bethlehem First Fellowship Church.