“The Church Grows as it Knows.” This motto encapsulates the spirit of Berean Missionary Baptist Church. This church was not built on grand architecture. It was founded on faith and the steadfast dedication of a small group of believers.
Picture a humble beginning in 1985. Pastor Charles Ford and his wife opened their home for worship. It was located at 1705 Lyn Curve Avenue North. The name Berean was inspired by Acts 17. Verses 10-12 describe people who eagerly searched the scriptures.
Just two days later the congregation found a place of worship at 2027 W Broadway. Seven people attended the first service. The building could seat 650.
Three weeks later Berean moved again to 3701 Penn Avenue North. The building was simple. Devoutness filled the space. Light was limited. A wall heater provided minimal warmth. But God’s love warmed their hearts.
Challenges arose quickly. The city declared services at 3701 Penn Avenue North illegal. Arrest threatened the pastor. Prayer became their refuge. The church overcame this obstacle.
Berean faced more trials in 1986. Little Regina Samuels passed away. This was a very difficult time. Some families moved away. Yet the church persevered. They continued by God’s grace.
In 1987, Berean sought to buy the building. God had other plans. He led them to 3007 Lyndale Avenue North. New Year’s Day 1988 marked their first service there. Only seven members were present. Pastor Ford encouraged them. He spoke of future blessings.
The pastor envisioned expansion. He wanted the house next door. It was located at 704 30th Avenue North.
February 14, 1988 was a milestone. Berean ordained its first Deacon Steve Fuller at age 17. The church needed $10000 to buy the building. They reached their goal on December 11 1988.
In November 1989 Regina’s Nursery opened. It was for infants to age 3. This was in memory of Regina Samuels.
July 1990 brought property expansion. The house at 704 30th Avenue North was acquired. Pastor Ford also envisioned owning 710 30th Avenue North. The church installed a baptismal pool that year. They amended their constitution. Selling was abolished. Teachings on tithing were emphasized.
Throughout the 1990s God blessed Berean. A church van and bus were purchased. This was for Pedestrian Outreach Ministry.
The church parking lot was dedicated in 1993. An 8 A.M. Morning Worship Service began in 1994. The Berean Licensed Child Care Center opened in 1999. It was located at 2704 Dupont Avenue. This furthered community outreach.
On June 1, 2003 Phase I of a new church building was completed. Members marched from 3007 Lyndale Avenue North to 704 30th Avenue North. This is where they now worship.
The old building at 3007 Lyndale Avenue North was demolished in 2004. This prepared for Phase II.
In 2006, Reverend Alvin Killion and Reverend Harry Kelly were licensed. They confessed the call to preach.
Sister Margean Ford accepted the call to preach. She was licensed on January 21 2007. Sister Dorothy Bentley was licensed in February 2007. Deacon Joseph Myles was licensed in January 2008.
In 2008, Berean launched a website. A new van was purchased. The church family created its first cookbook. New ministries emerged. These included “Ford’s Mighty Men” and the “King’s Daughter.”
The Berean Academy of Higher Learning gained accreditation in 2012. Pastor Ford received his Doctor of Theology Degree. Reverend Margean Ford received her Doctorate.
After 51 years of preaching, Dr. Charles Ford delivered his final sermon on December 5, 2021. He was awarded the title of Pastor Emeritus on January 8, 2022.
Dr. Charles Ford passed away on May 18, 2022. Reverend Dr. Margean Ford became Interim Pastor on June 21, 2022.
Berean Missionary Baptist Church stands as a testament to unwavering faith. It shows dedication and the power of community. From humble beginnings to continued growth, Berean exemplifies a church that truly grows as it knows.