Perhaps it’s the solid structure of Greater True Light Baptist Church that speaks volumes about its steadfast history. This church has deep roots in Houston’s Fifth Ward. It started with a vision and a small family.
In 1961 Reverend Willie Morrison felt divinely inspired. He started a church in his home. The first members were his wife Verlie and their three sons. Their home at 3225 Green Street became their first sanctuary.
After three months the church moved. They relocated to 1319 Grove Street in March 1962. The congregation was small and mostly children. But the church grew through the dedication of its pastor and members. Their ministry became well-known in the neighborhood.
Reverend Morrison had a grander vision. In August 1972 Greater True Light Baptist Church moved again. This time they moved to our present location at 6828 Annunciation Street. He believed this move was God’s will. He predicted eight years of struggle before things eased. His prophecy came true.
God continued to bless Greater True Light Baptist Church. The new location was just one sign. In 1975 the church opened a Day Care and a Kindergarten. Both operated until 1978.
In November 1978 the church started the Northeast Senior Citizen Center. It served the community until September 1993. From 1980 the Inter-Baptist Theological Seminary was also on site. It was led by Dr. S.M. Weaver and Pastor Morrison. It remained active until January 2004.
Greater True Light Missionary Baptist Church officially chartered in April 1980. The church committed to saving those lost in sin. This aligns with the scripture in St. Matthew 28:19-20.
On July 1 1984 the church launched a radio ministry. “Seeking to Save” aired on KGOL 107.5 FM every Sunday at 6:30 a.m. It blessed the city of Houston but ended when Pastor Morrison died in 1986.
Reverend Willie Morrison passed away on April 21 1986. His death was a great loss. But the church kept its focus on Christ. Reverend Lester Morrison became the pastor later that year. He continued his father’s teachings and mission. This led to the “Reach Out Tape Ministry.”
Tragedy struck again on February 23 1990. Pastor Lester Morrison and his wife Vera passed away. The church was saddened but remained strong.
In January 1991 Reverend Willie T. Morris became the pastor. He brought many positive changes. He started the Women’s Chorus and the Women’s Outreach Ministry. Also the Sick Committee and Spiritual Advisement Team were founded. The Academic Scholarship Committee was founded, too. He reestablished the Brotherhood and Baptist Training Union. Also the Deacon Home Religious Outreach and Kitchen Hospitality Team were brought to life.
Greater True Light Baptist Church resolved its mortgage on May 23 1993. They celebrated by burning the note and laying the cornerstone. The sanctuary was refurbished in June 1996. In 2000 the Fellowship Hall was remodeled. It was dedicated to Dr. Willie Morrison on April 30 2000.
Reverend W. T. Morris retired in October 2003. Reverend Theophilus O’Brian Berry became the pastor on March 19 2004. His leadership brought new energy to the church. Mid-week bible study became popular. He revamped the Children’s Church. Also he grew the Young Adult Ministry. He reorganized the Brotherhood and Ministerial training classes. He implemented a Tape Ministry. It spread the Word of God beyond the church walls.
In April 2005 the church had a successful community street evangelism effort. In June 2005 they bought 4.5 acres of land. In July 2005 they remodeled the sanctuary. Greater True Light Baptist Church continues to thrive. It is a testament to faith and perseverance. It embodies its vision to be true lights in the world.