Bethel Community Church Of Pottstown: A Model of Multi-Faith - Celebrates its 10th Year Church Anniversary.

Bethel Community Church of Pottstown, led by Pastor and Founder Dr. Vernon Ross, Jr., continues to receive attention for its approach to inclusive, service-oriented ministry. Established in 2015 after separating from the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Bethel Community Church has developed into a spiritual and social center defined by its Christ-centered, non-denominational, and multicultural identity. The church emphasizes holistic care—spanning spiritual, physical, educational, and social dimensions—offering a model for contemporary, community-based ministry.

A distinctive element of Bethel’s journey is its shared facility with a Jewish congregation, co-located in a former synagogue on an 8.5-acre property. This partnership, which began when the church was founded, has continued for ten (10) years. It demonstrates a sustained relationship between Christian and Jewish communities. Both maintain their own traditions while sharing space and occasionally engaging in interfaith activities, fostering mutual respect and collaboration.

On Sunday, June 8, 2025 at 11:00 AM, the Church will celebrate its 10th Year Church Anniversary. On this day, the congregation will celebrate God’s faithfulness and reflect on the blessings of the past ten (10) years and look forward to what God has planned for the future. 

The church’s origins in a denomination transitioned to non-denominational reflect its broader mission to meet community needs more fully and meet the spiritual, physical, educational, medical needs of the entire community.  Since its founding, Bethel has offered a range of outreach services. These include a food pantry, clothing distribution center, back-to-school supplies for children, and scholarships for graduating high school seniors. The church has also collaborated with local health agencies to provide flu and COVID-19 vaccination clinics, enhancing health access for underserved populations.

Dr. Ross has a diverse professional and academic background. He holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Innovation from Wilmington University, a Master of Divinity in Urban Studies from the Lutheran Theological Seminary, and additional degrees in computer science and education. He has held leadership roles in defense and technology firms such as Lockheed Martin and SAIC, focusing on areas including diversity initiatives, cybersecurity education, and workforce strategy.

He has also contributed to national discussions on STEM education and workforce diversity, equity and inclusion, presenting at events hosted by organizations such as the Federal Institute of Learning for Diversity & Inclusion, Lockheed Martin’s African American Leadership Forum, Great Minds in STEM, the Hispanic Leadership Council, and the National Initiative for Cyber Education. His focus has included mentorship, educational pathways for underrepresented groups, and building bridges between academia and industry.

Bethel Community Church views faith as a means to address the full spectrum of human needs. Its programs offer support for physical health, education, emotional well-being, and spiritual growth. The church also opens its facilities for community use for funerals, weddings, graduation celebrations, baby showers and life milestones, serving as a gathering point for local residents.

Its inclusive and community-focused mission attracts individuals from a broad range of backgrounds. With particular attention to multicultural engagement and youth outreach, Bethel continues to promote intergenerational and intercultural unity. The church leadership maintains that spiritual growth is closely tied to social responsibility and practical support.

Dr. Ross and the church have been recognized for their contributions in various ways. Dr. Ross has received honors such as the Engineering Excellence Award, the Volunteer of the Year Award from the Network of Volunteer Associates, and recognition from Black Engineer of the Year. He has served on Jackson State University National Alumni Association and Penn State University Engineering Diversity Advisory Board serving as chair for several years.  He currently serves on the Pottstown Hospital - Tower Health Board of Trustees, Montgomery County Youth Center, Centro Cultural Latinos Unidos (CCLU) and president of Pottstown Communities of Faith.  

Located in Pottstown, Pennsylvania—a community with diverse socioeconomic conditions—Bethel plays an important role in addressing service gaps. Its leaders continue to work with local organizations such as Centro Cultural Latinos Unidos (CCLU) and remain involved in efforts focused on poverty alleviation, education, and interfaith engagement.

The work of Bethel Community Church of Pottstown and Dr. Vernon Ross, Jr. reflects the potential of faith-based communities to serve as agents of unity and support. Their collaboration with a Jewish congregation is a tangible example of cooperative interfaith relationships. At the same time, their integrated approach to ministry continues to respond to the needs of the broader community.

For more information, visit the church’s official Facebook page.