Gethsemane Baptist Church

From humble beginnings in a home. Gethsemane Baptist Church stands tall. Its story begins in 1929. Nine believers gathered in Mother Florence Felder’s home. They formed a mission. Sadie Beal named it Gethsemane. She was remembering Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane. The church moved to a storefront on Third Avenue. It was tiny. Just one aisle one entrance and one exit. There wasn’t even a baptismal pool. They borrowed one. They used an old icebox as a pulpit. Despite hardships Gethsemane thrived. Pastor Ernest William Ghee led the way. He and the deacons found ways to overcome challenges. The church even faced a landlord who padlocked the doors when rent was overdue. In 1940 Gethsemane became an incorporated church. They bought a building on Washington Avenue in 1944. Their membership grew to 1500. The city needed the land. Gethsemane found a new location. A fire destroyed the new building just before they were to move in. A Methodist church graciously offered its sanctuary. This was until the renovations were complete and they moved to 771 Fairmount Place. Gethsemane’s history is full of resilience. It is full of faith. It’s a testament to the enduring power of community. Reverend Ghee passed in 1964. Reverend Taft Miller took over. He established several choirs and ministries. He ordained deacons including Clarence Flemming. Eugene Sligh and Herbert Wingo. Gethsemane has also given birth to numerous ministers. These ministers went on to lead their own congregations. Reverend Miller passed away in 1976. Reverend Milton A Cephous followed. He ordained more deacons including John Phinizy. The church faced another challenge without a pastor for several years. Deacon John Phinizy guided the church. Reverend Torrence Robinson became pastor in 1983. He led the church through many changes. The church expanded its ministries. This includes prison ministry anti-substance abuse and a thriving food pantry. Gethsemane continues to serve its community and grow spiritually. The church plans for the future include expanding its sanctuary. It is to include affordable housing and day care. This rich history unfolds before you. It is a testament to faith perseverance and community spirit. Gethsemane Baptist Church is more than a building. It is a living legacy.