Bethel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church was established in August of 1868 in the town of Wytheville, Virginia. The church building is one of the oldest in the town and is probably the oldest piece of property still owned by African Americans. Bethel has a rich, grand, and glorious history.

By faith, hard work, and the sweat of their brow, they built an imposing and impressive house of worship. Bethel Church outside measurements are fifty feet wide and eighty-six feet long, with twin steeples, seeming to reach to the very heavens themselves. Inside, Bethel comprises approximately 3800 square feet of sanctuary space, with a seating capacity of 500. With additional seating, Bethel could easily accommodate 700 or more worshippers. Throughout the years, Bethel has been the home of many ministers and their families, who have stayed in the parsonage, which is located right next to the church.