“Greater Liberty Baptist Church,” a name whispered with reverence echoes from this very spot. This church now known as Greater Tulane Baptist Church is more than bricks and mortar. It embodies a legacy of faith hope and resilience.
Founded in 1853 as Greater Liberty Baptist Church this congregation stands as the tenth oldest black church in New Orleans. Its story began humbly on the corner of Marais and Piety Streets. Reverend A. Wyatte led a small but dedicated group.
Imagine those early days. After Reverend Wyatte’s time Reverend Charles Shackey stepped in. The church moved to 1230 Desire Street. Difficult times tested the church. A potential split loomed. But Reverend Shackey’s unwavering faith kept the community together until his death at the impressive age of 90.
Reverend Henry Thomas followed preaching strength through faith. His motto “Let us accept hardships struggles or whatever the burden to be carried and go forward with Christ” resonated deeply. People of all backgrounds Catholics Methodists and Baptists attended Sunday school finding solace in its loving environment.
Picture a shed-like building a three-walled room. A potbelly stove offered warmth. A stick propped against the wall prevented collapse. Yet within those humble walls faith flourished.
Reverend Edward Riley an assistant minister provided transportation in his open paneled truck. This became a beloved tradition. Another tradition was a two-day wake service. The church believed the body should lie in state for two days suspending all other activities.
After Reverend Thomas’s death seven devoted members Elizabeth Manigo Mary Gaines Margarette Washington Mary Pascal Alphonse Lee Gertrude Humphrey and Clara Woodis kept the faith alive. Their perseverance paved the way for Reverend Noah Copelin.
In April 1930 Liberty Baptist became Greater Liberty Baptist Church. Reverend Copelin focused on healing past struggles. His motto “With Christ to help us we need never fail; we should be more courageous with minds to work and not to shirk” inspired action.
Young people flocked to Greater Liberty drawn by the dedication of its pioneers. The church fostered unity between generations. Love and care extended beyond Sundays. Reverend Copelin acted as a father figure to the youth. He encouraged children to be children providing music and joy at church picnics.
Under his leadership Greater Liberty grew in membership and resources. He established the Usher Board Deacons Junior Deacons and Choirs Number One and Two. The Loyalty Sextet a traveling singing group brought further recognition. Church mothers like Mothers Gaines Washington Latoye and Manigo offered spiritual guidance and discipline.
Reverend Copelin served for 39 years until his death in 1969. After a short time with Reverend Marshall Carmbs Reverend Melvin Clark became pastor in 1971. Greater Liberty’s welcoming spirit caught the attention of Hollywood. The 1970 movie “Hard Times” starring Charles Bronson and James Colburn featured Greater Liberty. The church underwent temporary changes for filming before being restored. In 1977 under Reverend Clark’s guidance the church moved into a new building.
In September 1979 Reverend Calvin Wallace Woods Jr. joined Greater Liberty. In December 1981 he became pastor. He eliminated the church’s $132000 debt within seven years. Reverend Woods focused on evangelism missions worship leadership development Christian education family ministries radio ministry and church administration. He encouraged involvement in various Baptist associations. He reached out to the community. He established over twenty-five ministries. Women gained leadership roles including serving as trustees. The church welcomed its first female minister Shelia Benson Andrews. President George Bush recognized the church’s Black Manhood Training Program. The church purchased properties for a family life center.
In 1998 “The Spirit of Liberty Economic Development Corporation” was established. In 2000 “Greater Liberty Ministries” followed. Both aimed to empower the community through jobs housing and businesses. A church website and related ministries were added in 2006.
Hurricane Katrina in 2005 brought devastation. Floodwaters toxic mold and wind damaged the sanctuary. Members scattered. But in March 2006 Reverend Woods returned. Services were held at Saint Mark’s Fourth Baptist Church and New Zion Baptist Church. On November 5 2006 the renovated sanctuary reopened.
Greater Liberty now known as Greater Tulane Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith community and perseverance. It’s a place where traditions were born leaders emerged and a community found strength in unity and devotion.