Bethel Celebrates Miracle Mortgage Liquidation

Story by Anthony Chornes II

The Bethel church in Akron, Ohio, is celebrating a major milestone after liquidating more than $100,000 in mortgage debt in just two and a half months—months ahead of the original 16-month plan.

In September 2025, Bethel members launched a church-wide initiative under the visionary leadership of Ricky Martin, senior pastor of Bethel, to eliminate the church mortgage by December 2026. The vision quickly united members, children, church leadership and supporters from several states around a common mission.

“This wasn’t simply about liquidating the mortgage; it was about the ability for further outreach with funds that were previously targeted for the mortgage payment,” says Martin.

The initiative inspired participation from every age group within the congregation. Children collected coins weekly, members organized fundraising efforts and supporters contributed sacrificially through donations and matching challenges. What began as a long-term financial commitment soon became a testimony of God’s provision.

Donation challenges ranging from $500 to $100,000 were met with overwhelming support as members and friends rallied together in faith.

The Bethel church family witnessed what they sing during the tithe and offerings part of their divine services: “You can’t beat God’s giving, no matter how you try.”

The Allegheny West Conference administration joined the Bethel family to celebrate the official mortgage burning ceremony January 31, 2026.Special guests included Marvin C. Brown, III, conference president; Joel Johnson, conference executive vice president; Keisha Stubbs-Bone, conference treasurer; members of the Treasury Department; and supporters from across the territory.

Church leaders emphasized that the mortgage liquidation will now allow funds previously designated for monthly payments to be redirected toward ministry, evangelism and community outreach initiatives throughout Akron.

The celebration served not only as a financial victory but as a reminder of what can happen when a church family unites behind a shared vision of faith, sacrifice and commitment.