Ten souls gathered in 1975. They formed Christ Baptist Church of Coram. This wasn’t in some grand hall. It was a simple home. Mr and Mrs Wilbur Murphy welcomed them. Their shared faith was the foundation.
Christ Baptist Church of Coram started small. It lacked its own building. For months it found refuge. The NAACP building at 99 West Yaphank Road became its first home. Prayer and Bible study filled the space. Reverend Willie R Jones Sr led the way.
These ten founding members were pioneers. Reverend Willie R Jones Sr and Mrs Virginia Jones were among them. Mr Wilbur Murphy Jr and Mrs Bertha Murphy also joined. Others included Mr Russell Lewis Mr James R Owens Mrs Cecilia Dallas Mr Phineas C Perryman Mr Joe Davis and Mrs Darlene Dillard. Mr John Nicholson completed the group. Their devotion laid the groundwork.
The church grew. In 1975 they incorporated. This legal step solidified their existence. Elder Willie R Jones Sr Cecilia Dallas and Phineas C Perryman voted. Attorney John White provided legal assistance. A board of trustees was elected. Wilbur Murphy Jr and John Nicholson were on it. Russell Lewis and Joe Davis held office later. James R Owens and Darlene Dillard served as well.
Christ Baptist Church found a new temporary home. The Seventh Day Adventist Church on Teller Avenue welcomed them. This second home lasted until 1977. This church family was resilient.
A permanent home arrived in November 1977. Christ Baptist Church purchased a building. It was located at 12 Windsor Court Coram NY. Expressway Federal Savings Bank gave them a mortgage. This was a significant milestone.
From 1998 to 2000 renovations took place. The church closed for the upgrades. They worshipped at Faith Community Baptist Church in Centereach NY. Pastor Arthur Cummings Sr led that congregation. Christ Baptist Church reopened in 2000.
The cornerstone ceremony was memorable. It occurred on August 12 2001. Pastor Andy Lewter officiated. Deacon Charlie Jones brother of Pastor Jones and his wife Louise were present. Many founding members attended. Approximately 200 people celebrated. The cornerstone was finally set on August 14 2001. John Plunkett installed it.
Elder Willie R Jones Sr served for 46 years. He dedicated his life to Christ Baptist Church of Coram. He passed away in August 2021. He left a powerful legacy.
Pastor Elder Dr Aaron A Woodward III DD now leads. He continues to build. The church has seen many changes. A new roof a new hot water system and upgraded air conditioning have been added. The parking lot is improved. A new illuminated sign shines bright. The church’s future is bright.