[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 177 (Friday, October 24, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E999]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF BETHEL TEMPLE CHURCH IN HAMPTON, 
                                VIRGINIA

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. ROBERT C. ``BOBBY'' SCOTT

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 24, 2025

  Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and 
celebrate Bethel Temple Church in Hampton, Virginia, on the occasion of 
its 70th anniversary. For seven decades, Bethel Temple has been a 
steadfast pillar of faith, service, and fellowship in the Hampton 
community.
  In the early 1950s, Reverend Beverly W. Fox, then pastor of Phoebus 
Assembly of God, led efforts to build a new house of worship. With the 
support of the community, a modest sanctuary was completed and 
dedicated as Bethel Assembly of God. In the summer of 1955, Reverend 
Fox and thirty congregants held the church's first service, laying the 
foundation for a ministry that would thrive for generations.
  Under the leadership of pastors, including Reverends Howard S. Ryan, 
G.P. Hertweck, Gerald Ogg, Sammy Hayes, and Arnold Brown, the church 
grew in both membership and outreach. Expanding facilities, 
establishing new ministries, and adopting the name Bethel Temple 
Assembly of God reflected its evolving mission and growing 
congregation.
  In the decades that followed, Reverends Ron Johnson and Glenn 
Reynolds deepened the church's community engagement through programs 
such as the Great Turkey Giveaway, Christmas Toy Giveaway, and weekly 
Community Dinner. These initiatives have benefitted countless families 
across Hampton Roads.
  Today, under the leadership of Senior Pastor Reverend Charles Ricks, 
Jr., and Pastor Lori Ricks, Bethel Temple continues to embody faith in 
action. Through partnerships with local organizations and tireless 
service for the Hampton community during the COVID-19 pandemic, they 
have strengthened the church's legacy of compassion and service.
  Mr. Speaker, as they mark this milestone, I extend my sincere 
gratitude to Bethel Temple Church for seventy years of faithful service 
and enduring impact on the people of Hampton.

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