Ten souls. A sawdust floor. That’s how New Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church began. In 1942 Reverend Ed Williams held the first meeting in Brother Dial Gilmore’s home. Sawdust Alley was its humble beginning. This area is now known as the Sumpter Plaza Apartments. The church quickly grew. It moved to a tent-like structure on Lee Street. Later a small wooden building was erected on Hailey Street.
New Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church continued to expand. Its story is one of faith and perseverance. Reverend Williams sadly passed away in 1955. Other pastors guided the congregation. Reverend A B Thompson served briefly. Then Reverend George Willie Persons led the church for many years. He oversaw the purchase of additional land. He also established many church auxiliaries.
In 1987 Reverend Persons passed away. Dr DR Hector Sr took over. Under his leadership the church thrived spiritually and financially. A new building was constructed on Gregg Street in 1997. This stunning edifice stands as a testament to the church’s enduring faith. The church was completely paid off on Victory Sunday July 6 2003. Dr Hector Sr’s legacy lives on. His son Reverend Danny Ray Hector Jr is the current pastor.
Reverend Hector Jr continued his father’s work. He implemented Project Trinity. This involved renovating the current building removing the old one and constructing a modern facility. The project aimed to provide extra classrooms a banquet facility and a fellowship center. Project Trinity Phases I and II were completed successfully. The church also acquired its first church van in 2019. The church continues to adapt to modern times. It offers online services. It’s even active on social media.
New Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church is more than just a building. It’s a community. It’s a place of worship. It’s a beacon of faith and hope in Houston’s Fifth Ward. It stands as a testament to the power of faith the strength of community and the enduring spirit of its members. The church continues to grow. It serves its community. It spreads the word of God. It lives on as a vital part of Houston’s rich religious landscape.