Pastor Rodger L. Jones, Jr
Pastor Rodger L. Jones is a United States Army Combat Veteran, a member of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod Council, and a current student at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in the TEEM (Theological Education for Emerging Ministries) program. He serves as the Synod Authorized Minister of Bethel Lutheran Church—the very congregation that raised him in Chicago’s West Garfield Park. From carrying the cross down the aisle as a little boy to now preaching, teaching, and leading as Pastor, his life bears witness to God’s faithfulness and to the rich heritage of this church.
Pastor Rodger’s call was nurtured early by the late Verna Baker, whose love and care introduced him to Christ and brought him to Bethel. He gratefully testifies that he “stands on her shoulders,” carrying forward the faith she planted and the steadfast example she lived.
Shaped by military service and theological formation, Pastor Rodger blends Spirit-filled worship with practical leadership: clear biblical preaching, compassionate pastoral care, and a deep commitment to equipping emerging leaders. His experiences as a combat veteran inform a disciplined, courageous, and hopeful shepherd’s heart—anchored in prayer and propelled toward service for the sake of the Gospel.
His vision is for Bethel to continue to be a Spirit-filled church that raises up new generations of leaders, remains rooted in the Gospel, and stands as a beacon of hope and transformation in the city of Chicago and beyond. Honoring the legacy of the late Rev. David T. Nelson—whose words still inspire, “You ain’t seen nothing yet!”—Pastor Rodger declares in faith: “The best is yet to come!”
“God’s peace is the calm that steadies us, His love is the embrace that surrounds us, and through Jesus Christ we are all saved by grace—so I will lead with hope, love with courage, and trust Him for what’s next.” Pastor Rodger L. Jones
The Rev. Dr. Wyvetta Bullock
The Rev. Dr. Wyvetta Bullock has faithfully served the ELCA since 1981. She earned a Masters in Divinity from Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago in 1995 and was conferred with the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Grand View College in 2003. She served as the executive director for the ELCA’s division of Congregational Ministries, is a pastoral associate at Bethel Lutheran Church, is a board director for Sojourners/Call to Renewal, and Augusta Victoria Hospital. She is also the founder and CEO of Equipping Leaders Ministries. Rev.Dr. Wyvetta Bullock currently serves as the Executive for Leadership development for the ELCA Office of the Presiding Bishop.
“Prayer can transform us to see what God is already doing in our midst. Prayer can open us to new possibilities and give us peace in difficult circumstances. Prayer can change our internal images so we can perceive God’s answer.” The Rev. Dr. Wyvetta Bullock
Music Ministry
Music is at the heart of the worship experience at Bethel. Bethel’s choir has traveled the world singing God’s praises. Sunday worship includes a mixture of Gospel Choir, Contemporary Praise, and Worship, traditional hymns and spirituals and solos. Everyone is invited to join in the worship in any way you feel comfortable. The very well equipped Music Staff includes, Kevin Copeland, Worship Coordinator, Sam Widemon Sr. Organist, and Sam Widemon Jr., Drummer.
Church Council
Bethel Lutheran Church Council is a team of ten elected leaders who provide prayerful, accountable governance for our congregation and community in West Garfield Park. The Executive Team—President LaTonia, Vice President Rachael, Treasurer Deborah, and Secretary Nancy—coordinates the Council’s work and ensures clear, transparent communication.
Together with six at-large members, the Council partners with the pastor to: set vision and priorities; steward finances and property; support worship, discipleship, and outreach ministries; develop policies that promote safety and hospitality; and equip leaders for service. The Council listens to the congregation, meets regularly, and shares updates so that Bethel remains Spirit-filled, well-led, and focused on our mission to love God and serve our neighbors.