About us
Bethalto Church of God...
began its strong pentecostal heritage as a result of the world changing Azusa Street Revival in California. in 1929, Members of the church had moved to East Alton with the vision of reaching people for christ IN THE METRO EAST AREA. What started as a store front building in 1929, has grown spiritually and physically over the years, leads us to the church we are today at the corner of route 140 and Moreland road.
The core values of the original 13 people has grown into the church we are today. Throughout the years, BCOG continues to see pentecostal, life changing revivals and services. We have a strong desire to reach multigenerational and multicultural individauls and families through our Strong senior, adult, youth and children's programs. we are known for our love and compassion, music, worship services and prayer. The vision of 13 people has grown through the 90 YEARS, AND CONTINUES TO LIGHT THE WAY.
For more information about our doctrine and beliefs, click "Learn More"
Leadership Team
Jacob & Susan
Skelton
Lead Pastors
Pastor Jacob and Susan Skelton began serving BCOG on Easter Sunday, April 4, 2021. They bring a passion and desire for prayer, reaching the community and sharing the message of Jesus with everyone. Pastor Jacob is a gifted preacher, pastor and administrator. Susan is gifted in hospitality and care ministries. The Skeltons also serve in several roles supporting the Illinois Church of God State Office. Prior to BCOG the Skelton’s have successfully led congregations in Lincoln and Kincaid, IL.Pastor and Susan happily serve with their twins, Ian and Lilly.
Pastor Joey & Erica Rogers
Youth Pastors
Pastor Joey & Erica Rogers, alongside their son Josiah, have served as the Youth Pastors of BCOG since March 2024. Both have served in youth ministry for over 7 years. Pastor Joey is a strong leader, speaker, and musician. Pastor Erica is gifted in singing and drama choreography. Their heart is to see young people awakened to their purpose and calling in Jesus Christ. Empowering teens to operate in the gifting God has placed on their lives.
Pastor Ben & Laura
Ratchford
Children's Pastors
Pastor Ben and Laura Ratchford, along with their daughters Grace and Selah, serve as the Children’s Pastors of the Bethalto Church of God. With over 20 years of experience in both the educational system and church ministry, the Ratchfords have a passion to support and strengthen children and families. They have served in various churches as director of children’s ministries in Illinois, Missouri, and Georgia, before becoming lead pastors of a local church in St. Louis. During that time, their oldest son, Zion suffered from leukemia and passed away after a three-year battle. Their son’s death brought about a shift in direction as Ben and Laura saw the need to help children and families both locally and globally. The Ratchfords also serve as the directors of Harvest Hands, a missions organization working to assist children through various compassion initiatives.