Progressive Missionary Baptist Church

On a spring day in 1961, Reverend E. B. Glenn Dickens stood on Grand Avenue, ready to open the doors of his new mission. He called it Avenue Baptist Church. He envisioned it as “A Way to Christ” for the Queen City neighborhood of South Dallas. This was one of the oldest African American communities in the city, and Reverend Dickens felt a calling to establish a church there. Discouraged when no one initially came to help, Dickens realized he would have to rely on divine assistance. He preached his first sermon, “A Mind to Work,” on May 28th, 1961, at the Progressive Missionary Baptist Church. Fifteen souls joined his fledgling congregation. The church was formally organized with the support of Mount Sinai Baptist Church, and Dickens was chosen as the first pastor. Just a few years later, in 1963, the growing congregation at Progressive Missionary Baptist Church needed more space. They moved from their Grand Avenue storefront to a new location on Dildock Street. The building was a former Church of God In Christ, Pillar Ground and Truth. Another significant change occurred in 1973. Avenue Baptist Church joined the Progressive National Baptist Church Convention. They also adopted a new name: Avenue Progressive Baptist Church. The Progressive Missionary Baptist Church thrived under Reverend Dickens’ leadership for 39 years, until his death in 2000. Several pastors followed, each leaving their mark on the church’s history. Reverend Aaron Paul Vernon served for over a decade, becoming Pastor Emeritus in 2011. Reverend Elmer Rogers led the congregation until 2013. Reverend Raymond Shaw served from 2014 until his passing in 2024. Currently, Dr. Mancil Carroll III serves as Interim Pastor. For over six decades, the Progressive Missionary Baptist Church has remained a steadfast presence in South Dallas. It has provided spiritual guidance and community support through the dedicated service of only five pastors.