Our Story
Bethel of Brandon, previously known as Zion Worship Center in Brandon, FL, was established in 1997 by Pastor Mathew Joseph. Our initial aim was to engage with the Indian diaspora within the greater Tampa Bay area. We initiated Bible study sessions to reach out to those who had not yet been reached in the Tampa Bay vicinity. It was in 1997 that Pastor Mathew relocated to Brandon with his wife Sarah and children Bryan and Linette.
At the outset, approximately 10 families began attending the Bible studies. The ministry expanded when Limona Village Chapel United Methodist Church graciously opened its doors to us. Through fervent prayer and evangelism, the congregation experienced growth.
In 1998, Pastor EJ Oomen, along with his family and several others from New York, joined, marking a significant milestone for the church. In 2003, with the assistance of dedicated families and Brother George Varghese's invaluable support, the church acquired the current property.
Many Indian immigrants in Tampa lacked opportunities to worship in their native language. Bethel of Brandon Church was established to provide a welcoming environment for those hindered by cultural and linguistic barriers.
In 2005, we collaborated with Pastor Jim Minor to hold a tent meeting and revival crusade in Sarasota, resulting in numerous attendees experiencing spiritual revival.
In 2019, recognizing the need to distinguish ourselves from another church with the same name, the leadership opted to change our name to Zion Worship Center of Tampa Bay, later reverting to Bethel of Brandon.
Currently, our congregation comprises members who regularly attend services, speaking languages including Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, Hindi and English. By the grace of God, all financial obligations regarding property loan have been met.
In addition to worship services in Indian languages, our ministries encompass Sunday school, children's church, prayer meetings, women's gatherings, Bible studies, and support for missions.
Since 1997, our mission has been to foster a deeper connection between individuals and God, while our vision centers on bridging the generational gap by sharing the gospel with the younger generation.
At the outset, approximately 10 families began attending the Bible studies. The ministry expanded when Limona Village Chapel United Methodist Church graciously opened its doors to us. Through fervent prayer and evangelism, the congregation experienced growth.
In 1998, Pastor EJ Oomen, along with his family and several others from New York, joined, marking a significant milestone for the church. In 2003, with the assistance of dedicated families and Brother George Varghese's invaluable support, the church acquired the current property.
Many Indian immigrants in Tampa lacked opportunities to worship in their native language. Bethel of Brandon Church was established to provide a welcoming environment for those hindered by cultural and linguistic barriers.
In 2005, we collaborated with Pastor Jim Minor to hold a tent meeting and revival crusade in Sarasota, resulting in numerous attendees experiencing spiritual revival.
In 2019, recognizing the need to distinguish ourselves from another church with the same name, the leadership opted to change our name to Zion Worship Center of Tampa Bay, later reverting to Bethel of Brandon.
Currently, our congregation comprises members who regularly attend services, speaking languages including Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, Hindi and English. By the grace of God, all financial obligations regarding property loan have been met.
In addition to worship services in Indian languages, our ministries encompass Sunday school, children's church, prayer meetings, women's gatherings, Bible studies, and support for missions.
Since 1997, our mission has been to foster a deeper connection between individuals and God, while our vision centers on bridging the generational gap by sharing the gospel with the younger generation.