Bethsaida ( beth-say-dah) the house of fisherman.  The name of the “church beside the road that lights the path of men”. The church at 3700 Tates Creek Road. 

Bethsaida Baptist Church has a rich history.  The following gives you a brief glimpse of the legacy of Bethsaida.  (For a detailed look at the history of Bethsaida and the Jonestown area, see the book entitled “History of Bethsaida Baptist Church and Jonestown Lexington, Kentucky” written by Sis. Betty Yates Smithers).  As we celebrate 153 years, we have come to understand that faith has brought us thus far and it is by faith we will continue to move forward.

The space currently know as Jonestown was originally purchased in 1811 by Samuel S. Wilson. In 1866 Samuel L. Wilson inherited land from his father. In 1881 he sold 50 acres to Thomas Jones and the name Jonesborough was given to the area. Thomas Jones subdivided the land in 1893 and offered it for sale to interested Blacks. The first buyer was Pete Owens. The area was later renamed Jonestown after Thomas Jones. It was in this area that Blacks settled and the first church was built. 

In 1933 under the leadership of Rev. Levi J. Johnson the first Homecoming of Bethsaida Baptist Church was started, organized by Sister Helen Ray Smith. The original purpose of homecoming was to help with the finances of the church to buy coal for heating during the winter months and to encourage fellowship. 

Bethsaida has been under the leadership of many great leaders who all contributed to the spiritual and physical growth of the church.

In 1982 Rev. (Dr.) Bishop Carter III was called to pastor.  Rev. Carter has achieved much over his 42 years.  In December of 2023, Pastor Carter announced his retirement effective July 21, 2024.  On July 14, 2024 Rev. Carter preached his final sermon as pastor of Bethsaida Baptist Church.  Also on that date, the church established that associate minister Rev. Richard Harless would serve as interim pastor.

As this church beside the road that lights the path of men (women, boys and girls), starts its search for the our new pastor, we are prayerful that the Lord will send someone who will continue to provide the leadership and spiritual guidance we have experienced over the years.