Rev. John Smith Dice ~ 1873-1914

Licensed by Mercer Presbytery, August 27, 1872. He was ordained by Beaver Valley Presbytery and installed pastor of Bethel April 21, 1874. Born near Poland, Ohio November 12, 1844 to George and Catherine Phillips Dice. Graduated from Westminster College in 1869. His theological training was at Allegheny United Presbyterian Seminary graduating in 1873. He served as pastor of Bethel for forty years being released by presbytery June 23, 1914. He was voted by the congregation as pastor emeritus. He was installed pastor of Union and Brownsdale, Butler Presbyter, May 5, 1915 and released from the latter congregation April 29, 197 but continued as pastor at Union until may 4, 1919. He built the home east of the church where the Dawson family now lives. Rev. & Mrs. Margaret M (McQuigg) Dice were married June 29, 1875 They had four children: Charles L., Alice B., J. Renfrew, and Margaret M. Rev. Dice died June 8, 1924. His service was held at Bethel June 10 and people started paying their respects at 6:30AM. One member was heard to say "I always felt nearer to heaven when Mr. Dice was praying". The greatest impression of his life was the fact of his childlike faith in God, God's Holy Book, Gods' love, and his firm belief of prayer. The October 2, 1924 edition of The United Presbyterian wrote. "Like his Master, he was always going about doing good, bearing the burdens of others, proclaiming the unsearchable riches of the Christ whom he knew so well, and bringing into sad hearts the comfort which only a man of faith can bring". The church remodeling of 1904 was done during Rev. Dice's pastorate.

Rev. Dice had a great love of history. He kept a Pastoral Registry Book with all the couples he married, all the baptisms and funerals he performed. He was the driving force behind the 100th anniversary celebration of Bethel Church. His records were and to this day are the best kept information for the history of Bethel.