‘Rev. Dr. T. Allen Bethel was a prophetic voice preaching a message of righteousness. He believed we had an obligation to free people from oppression. ‘
by: Jim Redden / Portland Tribune
Posted: Dec 22, 2020 / 11:40 am PSTUpdated: December 22, 2020 / 4:21 PM PST
PORTLAND, Ore. (Portland Tribune) – Longtime Portland Religious, Community, and Civil Rights Leader, Rev. Dr. T. Allen Bethel, has died. He was 67 years old.
Bethel’s death was announced on its Maranatha Church Facebook page.
“With a heavy heart we announce the death of my father, Rev. Dr. T. Allen Bethel. In his favorite song it says: “My soul is anchored in the Lord”, and we are comforted when we know that his soul is now with the Lord, ”said a contribution by his daughter Monica Bethel and the Bethel family. “We love and appreciate you all for your support and prayers. Please keep praying for our families as we go through this difficult time. ”
No details were given. Funeral arrangements are pending.
Oregon Senator Ron Wyden said Bethel “was a strong and eloquent voice in Portland who brought grace and wisdom to its work for justice and a stronger community.”
In addition to serving as the senior pastor of the North Portland Church, where he had served since 1994, Bethel has also served as president of the Albina Ministerial Alliance civil rights organization. He has also served on the board of directors of TriMet, the Oregon League of Minority Voters, Warner Pacific College, the Oregon Trail Chapter of the American Red Cross, and the North Portland Bible College.
“Rev. Dr. T. Allen Bethel was a prophetic voice preaching a message of righteousness. He believed we had an obligation to free people from oppression. Therefore, Dr. Bethel for police reform, an end to gun violence and a better Portland for young people. He was a friend, ”wrote Rev. Dr. Chuck Currie in a social media post.
In a statement, U.S. attorney for Oregon Billy J. Williams said Dr. Bethel is “a true icon of civil rights. Dr. Bethel was a visionary leader who reminded us all that the first duty of society is justice. He was a leader with incredible strength, courage, faith, and dignity. His words stirred passion and his work stirred action. People listened when he spoke because of his impeccable character, demeanor, and passion for change. I have Dr. Bethel deeply respects and will miss him. “
Bethel earned Bachelor of Theology from Kansas City College and the Bible School and graduated with honors from Nazarene Theological Seminary. He also had a Masters in Religious Education from Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary and an Honorary Doctorate from the Southern California School of Ministry.
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