
WHO WE ARE
About Mt Bethel Baptist Church
Mt Bethel Baptist Church is a Christ-centered ministry committed to transforming lives through the power of the Word of God. Our vision is to see individuals grow spiritually, mentally, physically, and financially as they walk in faith and purpose. We believe in teaching sound biblical truth while creating a welcoming environment where people can experience God, build meaningful relationships, and live out their calling.
Our mission is to bring the church to the community so that the community will come to church. Through worship, discipleship, and outreach, Mt Bethel Baptist Church seeks to serve families, strengthen believers, and impact the city of St Gabriel and beyond. Whether you are new to faith or seeking a church home, we invite you to grow with us and experience what God is doing at Mt Bethel.


Pastor David L. Lodge Sr.
Pastor David L. Lodge Sr. is a native of St. Gabriel, Louisiana. He is married to First Lady Elder Shirelle L. Lodge and is the proud father of four children: Justin, Daelen, Sydni, and David II. He is also the proud grandfather of Kaiden, Ava, and Jaxn.
Pastor Lodge was saved and filled with the Holy Spirit in 1999. He was licensed and ordained to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ in 2004. Pastor Lodge attended the University of Phoenix, earning a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. He also attended Christian Bible College, Faith University, and numerous Christian Leadership Trainings.
Pastor Lodge served for 13 years as the 1st Assistant Pastor at Beacon Light Baptist Church of Baton Rouge, under the leadership of Overseer Eric A. Williams. Pastor Lodge is the proud pastor of Mt. Bethel Baptist church in St. Gabriel, La. Pastor Lodge serves on the Board of Directors for the St. Gabriel Health Clinic as the Chaplain, and is also a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc..
Pastor Lodge's heart & desire are to see the people of God blessed spiritually, physically, and financially according to the word of God. Pastor Lodge remains humble and is nevertheless amazed by the hand of God on his life.
First Lady Elder Shirelle LaMothe-Lodge
First Lady Elder Shirelle LaMothe-Lodge was born and raised in New Orleans (Algiers), Louisiana. She is married to Pastor David L. Lodge and is the proud mother of four—Justin, Daelen, Sydni, and David II—and the “Glam” to Kaiden and Ava.
In 2023, she became First Lady of Mt. Bethel Baptist Church of St. Gabriel, Louisiana, where she also serves as founder of the D.O.P.E. (Daughters of Prayer and Empowerment) Women’s Ministry. She accepted her call to ministry and is a licensed, ordained Elder under the leadership of Overseer Eric A. Williams at Beacon Light of Baton Rouge.
A lifelong learner, First Lady Lodge holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Columbia Southern University and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Theology at Grand Canyon University. She has a strong passion for mentoring young adult women, helping them recognize their value through faith and life experience.
She also serves the community through the Order of the Eastern Star, Genesis Chapter 1055, and expresses her creativity through fashion as the founder of SWAGG (Styled with Array, Glamor, and Grace). Above all, she cherishes time with family and friends and remains excited about what God has in store for her life.

