bethelem lutheran church is an historic stone lutheran church located at 412 south white street in round top, texas. construction of the church began in 1866 under the leadership of pastor j. adam neuthard, with the first service being held on january 13, 1867. the building was designed by carl siegismund bauer, a german texan, who also served as the head mason. the side walls are supported by buttresses. it is one of the earliest stone churches built in this section of texas and has been used for services continuously since its construction. today it is the oldest lutheran church sanctuary in texas. it was recorded as a texas historic landmark in 1965 and added to the national register of historic places on august 10, 1978. the church celebrated its sesquicentennial on october 23, 2016.