What began as a small gathering has blossomed into the Galilee Church we see today. Galilee Church’s story starts with humble beginnings and a vision for the future. First Union Baptist Church was formed December 1, 1954. Nine dedicated members sought guidance and elected Reverend Luther N. Gause as pastor.
Under Pastor Gause, First Union Baptist Church moved to a larger building at 200 11th Street, N.E., Washington, DC. With this purchase, Reverend Gause and the congregation changed the name to Galilee Baptist Mission.
Due to failing health, Reverend Gause asked Reverend William H. Bennett, Sr. to minister. In May 1956, Reverend William H. Bennett, Sr. became the new Pastor of Galilee Baptist Mission. Reverend Bennett was installed May 13, 1956. In March 1957, the name changed again to Galilee Baptist Church.
Reverend Bennett served as pastor for 22 years and nine months. With increasing membership, a new site was purchased at 2252 Minnesota Avenue, S.E., Washington, DC. The members started worshiping at the new site in December 1977. A cornerstone was laid in July 1978 for a new building of Galilee Church.
Reverend Bennett retired in January 1979. Reverend Dr. Eugene Weathers was elected pastor. He preached his first sermon March 4, 1979. A building expansion began in 1979 and was completed about a year later. A 7:30 a.m. service was added. The 11:00 a.m. services moved to Anacostia High School in Washington, D.C.
Following his vision, Reverend Weathers purchased the edifice at 2101 Shadyside Avenue, Suitland, Maryland, in early 1990. The first move was in October 1990. This expansion created two sites for one church. Galilee Baptist Church had locations at 2252 Minnesota Avenue, Washington, DC and 2101 Shadyside Avenue, Suitland, Maryland. Reverend Weathers served as pastor for 18 years and 11 months. He resigned February 24, 1998.
On October 23, 1999, Galilee Church called Reverend Dr. Lloyd T. McGriff to become pastor. The following Sunday, Pastor McGriff preached “Count It All Joy.” In January 2000, he became the fourth pastor in Galilee’s 57-year history.
Early themes of Rev. McGriff’s leadership included “A Church Doing a New Thing” and “A Church Determined to Grow for Christ.” In January 2022, Pastor McGriff became the longest-serving pastor of Galilee Baptist Church.
Under Pastor McGriff, Galilee Church restructured several ministries. These included the New Members Class and Prison Ministry. They hold three Sunday services. They developed the Discipleship Institute, Substance Abuse Ministry, Couples Ministry, Singles Ministry, Nursery Ministry, and Youth Choir. The Good Samaritan Ministry and Galilee Community Development were organized to promote financial literacy and affordable housing.
Galilee Church currently holds two Sunday services at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Galilee has secured 50 acres of land at 5800 Block of Woodyard Road in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Their theme is “Building By Faith – Expanding for the Future.”
Today, Galilee Church stands as a testament to faith. It shows growth and dedication to serving the community. It is a beacon of hope. It is a place where all are welcome to join in worship and fellowship.