The New Bethel Mural Project

We are raising money to purchase and install a professional art mural celebrating the rich history of the New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit, Michigan.  The mural will feature Rev. C. L. Franklin, a dynamic gospel preacher, singer, humanitarian and civil rights activist.  Rev. Franklin was known nationwide for his powerful preaching and Radio Broadcast each Sunday evening.  Through this broadcast, the gospel was spread to thousands of listeners. Rev. Franklin had many famous sermons, including "The Eagle Stirreth Her Nest."  In June 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was invited by Rev. Franklin to be the keynote speaker at the Detroit Walk to Freedom. More than 250,000 people participated in the march which was known as "the largest civil rights demonstration in the nation's history" up to that date.  Under Rev Franklin's leadership, New Bethel was active in the civil rights movement, foreign and domestic mission work and several outreach ministries.   

The mural will also feature, Aretha Franklin, legendary singer, actress, civil rights activist and the daughter of Rev. C. L. Franklin.  Aretha, know to the world as the "Queen of Soul", was a member of the New Bethel Baptist Church throughout her life.  She recorded her first gospel album at New Bethel, held several community events and gospel concerts at the church, provided food to the Linwood community, and made generous donations to the scholarship fund and the New Bethel Samaritan Ministry.  New Bethel continues to be a shining light in the Linwood community and throughout the world because of our global mission work and outreach ministries.  With your help, we will be able to preserve the church history and celebrate the legacy of Rev. C. L. Franklin and Aretha Franklin. 

Your donation will greatly impact the New Bethel Mural project. Thanks in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to the New Bethel Baptist Church, the Linwood community and the world.