Published April 22. 2025 02:45PM
The new campus of Bethany Wesleyan Church in Jim Thorpe held its first service on Easter Sunday. The multisite church also has campuses in Lehighton, Cherryville and Palmerton.
“We’re excited to launch here,” Executive Pastor Justin Leininger said. “We love the community.”
The former Methodist Church at 40 Church Road had sat empty since July 2024.
“God moves fast,” said Donna Tweed, a greeter for 15 years at the other church locations.
“It’s so exciting to see worship taking place in this building again. The community needs it,” said greeter Connie Jacobs.
Children’s Pastor Holly Haydt from the Lehighton campus explained that parents check their kids in with their age and any allergies to keep everyone safe. Sunday classes are held for children up to fifth grade, with plans to have special events and Vacation Bible School. Steve Haydt will be teaching Sunday School.
Sharon Stettler from Jim Thorpe was excited to see how “people show up,” as she had attended the Cherryville campus for 20 years. The new church is 10 minutes from her.
The Easter Service filled up quickly as parishioners were excited to gather at the Jim Thorpe campus.
Above: The new campus of Bethany Wesleyan Church in Jim Thorpe is located in the former Methodist church at 40 Church Road. LORI R. COOPER/SPECIAL TO THE TIMES NEWS
Executive Pastor Justin Leininger and Youth Pastor Holly Haydt at the new campus of Bethany Wesleyan Church in Jim Thorpe.
Right: Trina Grauvogel of Jim Thorpe, with her son, Chase, 19 months old, enter Bethany Wesleyan’s Jim Thorpe campus for the first service on Easter Sunday. Accompanying her is her mother, Karen Rennie of Schnecksville.