The City of Los Angeles recently recognized Pastor Reginald A. Pope and Bethel Missionary Baptist Church for their countless contributions to the Watts community.
The honor was revealed when Councilman Joe Buscaino represented the city in designating Compton Avenue, from 109th Street to 110th street, as Pastor Reginald A. Pope Way.
Many people agree that the salute was richly deserved, especially in light of Bethel’s 67 years and Pastor Pope’s 39 years of positively impacting the people in Watts. In addition to offering spiritual support through worship services and Bible studies, the church goes beyond its walls to provide weekly food and clothing distributions, Thanksgiving dinners and turkey deliveries, annual back-to-school rallies and more for the community.
Also, Pastor Pope has a history of civic involvement including service under three mayors as a member of the Community Development Advisory Committee and as a founding member of the Watts Area Ministers, Inc. The group will host a King Day Celebration on Friday, January 16, at 11 a.m., at the Martin Luther King Shopping Center on 103rd Street and Compton Avenue.
Bethel is located at 10905 Compton Avenue in Los Angeles. For information, call (323) 566-5286.
