Rev. Nathaniel J. Yates Sr.  serves as Pastor here at Bethany Community Church in Laurel Maryland. Pastor Nate was confirmed, and began serving, as our church’s second pastor on May 5, 2019. Later, a formal installation service was held on September 7, 2019. 

Before coming to Bethany, Pastor Yates served as the Youth and Young Adult Pastor at the Metropolitan Baptist Church in Largo, MD. He has also served in ministry at the First Baptist Church of Glenarden where he was licensed and ordained by his Pastor and father in ministry, Pastor John K. Jenkins Sr. .

Pastor Nathaniel holds a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies from Lancaster Bible College, Capital Bible Seminary; and currently is a Ph.D. candidate for a Ph.D. in Biblical Studies. He also holds a Master of Public Health, Bachelor of Science in Human Services, and an Associates degree in Disaster Preparedness.  Pastor Yates currently also serves as an Associate Professor with the Denver Seminary and the Lancaster Bible College, Capital Bible Seminary. Pastor Yates is a federal civil servant with 20 years of service, and also serves on the Board of Overseers for Converge MidAtlantic.

Pastor Yates married First Lady Brittany in 2009 and they have three children; Nathaniel Jr., Brielle, and Micah.

Pastor Nathaniel believes that we are called to Connect with Communities, develop disciples, teach the truth, and lead with love.