First Timothy Missionary Baptist Church

Did you ever hear of a church that started with a musical tea? First Timothy Missionary Baptist Church’s story began just like that. On November 19, 1940, a musical tea at Mrs. Mattie Davis’s home raised a modest $3.10. This small sum marked the beginning of something big. Former members of Messiah Baptist Church, seeking a new spiritual home, gathered first at Mrs. Davis’s house, then at Mr. and Mrs. James A. Thomas’s home. First Timothy Missionary Baptist Church began to take shape. Departments for Sunday School and B.Y.P.U. were formed. On December 5, 1940, at Sardis Baptist Church, First Timothy Missionary Baptist Church was officially established. Reverend Henry Grady Lyons was installed as the first pastor. The church’s early days were a testament to community and resilience. Services were held at the Cedar YMCA for $5 a Sunday. Prayer meetings took place in members’ homes. The first Gospel Choir was formed, along with a Mother’s Board, Deaconess Board, Usher Board, and Missionary Department. First Timothy Missionary Baptist Church quickly outgrew the YMCA. They then moved to John E. Hubbard Memorial Hall, and later to Friendship Baptist Church. In 1942, an opportunity arose. The pastor of the Independent Presbyterian Church on East 71st Street passed away. First Timothy Missionary Baptist Church purchased the property, finally finding a permanent home. On February 21, 1943, First Timothy Missionary Baptist Church held its first service in its new sanctuary. New ministries blossomed. A baptismal pool was installed, funded by the Naomi Circle. The church actively supported community organizations like the Ward Home for the Aged, Phillis Wheatley House, and Mary B. Talbert Home. By 1947, membership reached 250. Reverend Lyons passed away in 1947. After a brief interim period, Reverend John T. Weeden became the second pastor in 1948. He served for an impressive forty years. During his tenure, First Timothy Missionary Baptist Church underwent extensive renovations and modernization. The church building and parsonage were repaired. New heating systems and a roof were installed. Pews, wall paneling, and lighting were upgraded. A new Hammond organ filled the sanctuary with music. An ADT security system and central air conditioning were added. Even the adjacent property was purchased for parking. First Timothy Missionary Baptist Church also achieved significant milestones. The mortgage was burned in 1950. “Missionary” was added to the church’s name in 1953. A memorial plaque honoring Reverend Lyons was unveiled in 1955. First Timothy Missionary Baptist Church hosted the Ohio Baptist State Convention twice, in 1956 and 1975. A Bible Institute and a Christian Education Institute were established. The church even sent representatives to Central America for aid work. Pastor Weeden passed away in 1988, leaving behind a legacy of growth and service. First Timothy Missionary Baptist Church has continued to flourish, guided by the dedication of its members and the leadership of subsequent pastors. It stands as a testament to the power of faith and the enduring spirit of community.