A warm, friendly, caring and loving church — a place of healing in Houghton, Johannesburg, since 1904.
Founded in 1904 as Berea Methodist Church, Bethesda Methodist Mission originally stood at the corner of Joe Slovo Drive and Alexander Street in Berea, Johannesburg. In 1952, the municipality proposed the expropriation of the church property for road development, leading to the congregation's relocation to Houghton in 1962, where the current church building was officially opened.
The democratic transition of the 1990s marked a significant turning point, as the congregation became increasingly diverse and representative of the surrounding communities. Worship services evolved to become more inclusive, incorporating vernacular worship and broader community participation.
A major milestone was the transformation from Berea Methodist Church to Bethesda Methodist Mission. The name "Bethesda", meaning place of healing, reflected a renewed vision of outreach, restoration, and community impact. The church also introduced a cell-group ministry model, strengthening fellowship and spiritual growth within smaller community groups. In 2004, the church celebrated its centenary by launching a mission fund to support outreach initiatives.
In recent years, Bethesda embraced digital ministry by launching online worship services through Facebook and YouTube, expanding the church's reach beyond physical gatherings.
Today, Bethesda Methodist Mission serves a congregation of approximately 850 members alongside a growing online community, committed to worship, discipleship, outreach, and community care.
Lead Pastoral Ministry. A short bio about Rev Geja will come here — their journey, ministry calling, and vision for Bethesda Methodist Mission.
Senior Ministry & Counsel. A short bio about Rev Dr Mabuza will come here — their academic background, theological contributions, and service to the congregation.
Our stewards are dedicated servants who oversee the various portfolios of church life, ensuring the smooth running of ministry and community care.
| Steward | Portfolio |
|---|---|
| Lundi Maja | Pastoral Care & Choir |
| Fikile Sithole | Communication & YMG |
| Nande Macingwana | Special Projects & YWM |
| Nandi Dlavana | Finance & WM |
| Nandi Majokana | Front of House & Youth Unit |
| Siya Gongo | Cell Groups & WM |
| Zanele Katembo | Trust — Monitoring and Evaluation & LPA |
Contact the Stewards: bmmstewards@gmail.com
Bethesda is a vibrant cell-centred ministry with multiple cell groups across Johannesburg. Cell groups meet regularly for fellowship, prayer, and Bible study — and each group is guided by a dedicated Cell Leader.
Wherever you live in Johannesburg, there is a cell group near you. Contact the church office or the Cell Groups Steward to be connected.
Get connected →Cell groups are organised into clusters, each championing worship celebrations like Rhona 2026 and community initiatives throughout the year.
Rhona 2026 →Cell Leaders are trained and supported by church leadership. If you feel called to host or lead a group, we would love to hear from you.
Enquire →The full Cell Leaders directory will be published here soon.
We welcome everyone who desires to grow in faith, find community, and serve others. Attend a service, meet with a minister, and be formally welcomed into the family.
Enquire About Membership