The story of Bethel Community begins with the birth of 2 different churches: Ashland Presbyterian Church in 1913, and Bethel Presbyterian Church in 1933.

In a rapidly changing time of development for Ashland and San Leandro, these churches provided opportunities for spiritual growth and learning for many new families who were moving into San Leandro’s new sub-developments.  In 1955, these two churches merged to form Bethel Community Presbyterian Church, which had over 300 members and many thriving ministries to the community. 

Over the following decades, Bethel Community experienced various cycles of growth, decline, and subsequent revitalization.  In 1998, it began a season of redevelopment, led by Rev. Sarah Reyes Gibbs, the first woman of color to pastor the church. Under her leadership, the church started the San Leandro Community Food Pantry, formed partnerships with the Interfaith Homeless Network, and collaborated with Los Mensajeros de Dios, a Spanish-speaking ministry. 

Between 2017-2018, the church began a time of discernment about its future, as Rev. Sarah Reyes had retired and membership was in decline.   After exploring a series of options, the church committed to partnering with First Presbyterian Church of Hayward in a 3-year revitalization process and in May of 2019, the San Francisco Presbytery officially voted to approve the proposal, and Michael and Erina Kim-Eubanks began serving as co-ministry leaders of Bethel Community. 

While the future of Bethel Community is unknown, it is clear that the Holy Spirit has never stopped working in and through the Bethel Community! Through all of its seasons and transitions, we hope to continue building upon our rich history and  using the many resources of the church to bear witness to Christ’s transforming power in San Leandro and beyond.

We hope that you will join us and be part of our unfolding story!