By Bobby R. Henry, Sr. / Westside Gazette
For 117 years, Bethel A.M.E. Church in Pompano Beach, Florida, has been more than a sanctuary of worship; it has been a sanctuary of hope. Generations have passed through its doors seeking faith, fellowship, and a future. What they found was a church that not only prays but acts like a church that serves as a pillar of strength for the people and a moral compass for the community.
Today, under the dynamic servant leadership of Rev. Dr. Micah C. T. Sims and Rev. Tameaka Reid Sims, Bethel A.M.E. continues to build upon that powerful legacy blending sacred tradition with an unshakable vision for the future.
A Legacy Rooted in Service
Founded in the early 1900s, Bethel A.M.E. Church Pompano has stood as a steadfast beacon through eras of struggle and triumph. For over a century, its ministry has fed the hungry, mentored the young, uplifted families, and empowered the disenfranchised all while proclaiming the everlasting love of Christ.
Its doors have remained open to all, nurturing generations in faith and action. Today, the congregation’s diversity mirrors the very essence of the gospel message — unity through love, service, and justice.
The Servant Leadership of Rev. Dr. Micah C. T. Sims and Rev. Tameaka Reid Sims
In just over a year at the helm, Team Sims has reignited Bethel’s flame of faith and community engagement.
Dr. Micah C. T. Sims, a fifth-generation A.M.E. pastor, has built his ministry on two pillars: spiritual revival and practical transformation. His preaching is both prophetic and empowering, urging believers to “live their faith out loud.” Beyond the pulpit, Dr. Sims’ civic footprint runs deep. He has long championed voting rights, community development, and social justice, ensuring the church remains a relevant, prophetic voice in today’s public square.
A trained broadcast journalist and communicator, Dr. Sims has also elevated Bethel’s media ministry. Through livestreams, podcasts, and digital storytelling, the church now reaches souls far beyond Pompano Beach. His experience as Adjunct Professor and Program Coordinator for the Center for Black Church Studies at Northern Seminary (Lisle, IL) further underscores his passion for developing the next generation of Black clergy and lay leaders.
With two upcoming books on the horizon, Dr. Sims continues to be a respected voice in the Black Church fusing intellect, activism, and faith.
Rev. Tameaka Reid Sims: Guiding the Heart of Spiritual Formation
Serving as Spiritual Formation Director, Rev. Tameaka Reid Sims helps believers deepen their relationship with God. Her ministry emphasizes spiritual disciplines, personal growth, and holistic living.
Through her books, “God Speaks” and the Christian fiction novel “Turbulence” Rev. Sims provides readers with tools for resilience and renewal. Her message resonates particularly with women, families, and emerging leaders, bridging faith and everyday life with authenticity and wisdom.
Together, the Sims embody a partnership rooted in love, leadership, and the liberating power of Christ.
Music That Moves the Spirit
At Bethel, worship comes alive through the universal language of music. Led by Stephon Roberson, Vernell Hicks, and Beverly Campbell, the music ministry delivers what congregants affectionately call a “spiritual buffet.”
Whether through timeless hymns, gospel classics, or contemporary praise, each note invites the congregation into deeper communion with God. The result? A worship experience that lifts hearts and restores souls one song at a time.
Faith in Action: Ministry Beyond the Walls
The heart of Bethel beats strongest in its outreach. Each month, volunteers distribute groceries and essentials to hundreds of South Florida families. Seniors are honored and supported through health education, fellowship, and care programs.
Meanwhile, Bethel’s media ministry ensures that the church’s message of hope and transformation reaches the world — capturing worship, community events, and testimonies that remind everyone that faith still works.
A Vision for the Future: Faith and Community Hand in Hand
Looking ahead, Bethel A.M.E. Church Pompano envisions transformation on two fronts:
Spiritually, by nurturing deeper discipleship, cultivating intergenerational ministries, and strengthening prayer and Bible engagement.
Communally, through initiatives that promote youth empowerment, affordable housing, economic growth, and neighborhood revitalization across Pompano Beach and beyond.
Their belief is clear: Faith must do more than inspire it must rebuild.
Honoring a Century of Builders
Bethel’s story is written through the lives of its faithful members individuals such as Annie Adderly Gillis, Samuel Sworn, Cherian Cooper, and Harold Abel, whose sacrifices and service laid the foundation for what Bethel has become. Their legacy endures in every sermon, song, and service project that bears the church’s name.
Still Standing. Still Serving. Still Shining.
As Bethel A.M.E. Church Pompano steps boldly into its next century, its mission remains unchanged: to transform people, community, and culture through Christ.
With Dr. Micah C. T. Sims and Rev. Tameaka Reid Sims leading the way, the congregation continues to embody the powerful refrain that echoes every Sunday morning:
“We love Bethel… don’t you?”
Join the movement of faith and fellowship at www.bethelpompano.org and www.welovebethel.com.
Sunday Worship: 10:00 a.m. | Bethel A.M.E. Church, Pompano Beach, FL
