God Is Good All The Time

About Us

Bethany History:

Bethany EV. Lutheran Church was organized on October 4, 1893. A combined church and school was built at 33rd & West Brown and dedicated in May 1894. Bethany began as a German-speaking congregation, changing to English for religious instruction in 1918. The building served both purposes until a new church (on 38th and West Lloyd) was built and dedicated on February 26, 1922. The original church on 33rd & Brown was then completely renovated and used exclusively for school purposes. The school closed in 1986. Over the years, Bethany has become a multi-cultural, diverse congregation, serving the needs of the immediate community.

Rev. Afam Afamefuna, Vacancy Pastor

My name is Rev. Afam Afamefuna. I am currently the Vacancy Pastor at Bethany Ev. Lutheran Church, Milwaukee. Additionally, I am the Chaplain at the Milwaukee County House of Correction in Franklin, Wisconsin. Bethany, which was established in 1893, started its ministry in the homes of members, then a storefront, a church on 33rd and Brown, and finally to its current building and location in 1922. At that time, most of the neighborhood residents were of German and Jewish descent. In the early days, Bethany held three worship services—one in German and two in English. Over the past years, the community has changed but we have seen the impact of the Law & Gospel in our central-city community both spiritually and physically. Bethany’s Food Pantry and Soup Kitchen ministries continue to grow and touch so many of God’s people. Bethany is still standing and spreading the Gospel to the central city. The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Even though we face many challenges, God is able! Please include Bethany is your prayers.

Bethany Ev. Lutheran Church was organized on October 4, 1893. A combined church and school was built at 33rd & West Brown and dedicated in May 1894.