EHBC Backround ImageBethel Baptist Church 1957-1963Text Box: Church History Text Box: The Beginning of a Vision...

In 1956, Newell Hawkins moved to Kent, Washington with a God given vision to start a church.  On May 5, 1957, thirty-five  people met at what was known as the Price Building, located at 527 West Meeker St.    On August 19, 1959 the members voted to file for articles of incorporation.  The church was named Bethel Baptist Church.  During 1963, the Church went through two major transitions, a new location and a new name.

East Hill Baptist Church 1966-2002

BETHEL BAPTIST CHURCH (1957-1963)

The Church purchased property at 11224 Kent-Kangley Road, and the name was changed to East Hill Baptist Church. The following year, the church experienced its first pastoral change.  Charles Lind was voted to be the new pastor on June 5, 1964.  A new piece of property was pursued, and on March 25, 1966, two acres were purchased.  The property was located on Kent’s East Hill at 25650 124th Ave SE, and was acquired for a price of $7,500.

By May 1, 1968, a portable structure was erected for church use.  In 1976, two additional portable units were purchased from the Seattle School District and set up on the property.  Charles Lind served as pastor until December 31, 1980.  On May 20, 1981, Lonnie Jacobson was voted upon to be the next pastor of the church, and faithfully served until the spring of 1986.  Steve Altabef filled the role as interim pastor until February 9, 1987.  At that time, East Hill Baptist Church voted to call John Nordstrom to be its fifth pastor.  He wonderfully led the church until May, 1994.  On June 29, 1994, East Hill Baptist Church voted to call John Steen as its new pastor.  At the annual meeting in January, 1999, East Hill Baptist Church reviewed plans for a new building.. On February 10, 2000, the church was issued a building permit to begin construction.  The first phase of the project was completed in that year, with the final phase becoming complete in February, 2003.  After 50 years, and six pastors, East Hill Baptist Church remains a lighthouse of truth in the city of Kent, Washington, and to the regions beyond.

EAST HILL BAPTIST CHURCH (1966-2002)
East Hill Baptist Church 2003-Present

EAST HILL BAPTIST CHURCH (2003-PRESENT)