In 1960, Brother Aubrey and Sister Monica McGann who lived in Black River started a Black River High School. They moved to Southfield and saw the need for Christian work. They had a "burning desire" to start a school in Malvern Chase, a town in St. Elizabeth Parish. The school in Malvern Chase was named, "Bethel". The school started with ten members who met in the living room. This number greatly increased as the Word of God was taught and people willingly surrendered their lives to Jesus Christ. A chapel was needed to accommodate the members. Later, the chapel was built and called Bethel Chapel. Brother Harry Chang replaced leaders Brother Aubrey and Sister Monica McGann as they felt it was time to move on. Brother Chang helped to start Bethel's first Bible Camp in 1964. This Bible Camp would help to bring young people all over the island together. In the 1970s, Brother Chang felt the Lord leading him to move on. He later chose Brother Oliver Bent who was one of the earlier preachers of Bethel before the church was built. Brother Oliver Bent was saved in the early 1960's and called to service at the chapel in 1978. He has played a pivotal role in the continued work of the church. He is the pastor of Bethel Gospel Chapel today.
Bethel has grown from 10 members in the 1960's to 191 members presently. Over the years, two new wings have been added to the church. Some of the ministries at Bethel include Sunday School, Young People's Group, Women's Group, Choir, and the Prayer Warrior's Group.
