“Union” became the defining word for a church seeking distinction. First Union Missionary Baptist Church emerged in San Francisco. It all started in 1944. Pastor P.S. Osborne and Pastor M.L. Price helped bring it to life. They were from Macedonia Baptist Church and Galveston, Texas respectively.
First Union Baptist church’s story began with Nathaniel N. Reason. He was the founder and first pastor. The church first gathered in a small storefront. It was located at 1643 O’Farrell Street.
Originally, it was to be named First Baptist Church. Another church already had that name in the city. Sister Leola Washington suggested including “Union”. The church became First Union Missionary Baptist Church. Seven people were the original members. First Union grew quickly.
A building fund was established. It started with $47.50. Sister Gussie Twyman Vann was the first treasurer. In December 1946, a building was purchased. It was located at 2398 Geary Boulevard. The church continued to grow. It had a 10-year mortgage and 2,000 members. The mortgage was paid off in seven years and seven months. The mortgage burning took place in July 1953.
Pastor Reason’s leadership fostered growth. First Union grew spiritually, financially, and in numbers. The Women’s Auxiliary started a new building fund. They dreamed of a modern church. It would have classrooms and parking. Pastor Reason passed away in June 1968. This was before the dream came true.
Deacon Willie B. Smith led from June 1968 to February 1969. The church purchased a parsonage during this time. Pastor Henry L. Davis, Sr. became the leader in February 1969. The church expanded due to growth. There was also an emphasis on outreach.
Groundbreaking for a new church occurred on Easter Sunday in April 1976. In December 1976, Pastor Davis led the congregation. They moved to 1001 Webster Street. The mortgage was burned in six years in 1985. New classrooms were constructed. An apartment building was also purchased. Pastor Davis ministered until his death in May 1984.
Deacon Smith again provided leadership. The church elected Pastor Henry L. Davis, Jr. in March 1985. He served through July 2000. Deacon George Booth led from July 2000 to January 2002. The church sought a new pastor. Pastor DeWayne A. Byrdsong was elected in January 2002. He served through December 2009. Deacon George Booth stepped in again.
In October 2011, First Union elected D.E.C. Matthews as pastor. He served through December 2013. Deacon George Booth and ministers provided leadership. First Union elected Dr. Larry Jetton, Jr. as pastor in June 2016. He was installed in September 2016. He served until his death in August 2018. Deacon Board Chairman Marshal Burgest then led. Today, First Union welcomes Pastor Henry Dillihant III. The church celebrates its 80-year history.