“Freedmantown” residents needed a spiritual home. In the 1870s they began moving to Houston’s Third Ward. Here we stand before the Jordan Grove Missionary Baptist Church Plaque. It marks a place of deep history. This plaque tells a story of faith and community. It is about resilience.
Jordan Grove Missionary Baptist Church began in 1879. Rev. Wee W. Navigan met with families that summer. They established a church in the Third Ward. They named it Jordan Grove. Services first occurred in a two-room shotgun house. This was on St. Charles and Pierce.
The church faced many challenges. Rev. Navigan worked hard. Divine guidance led to success. Early deacons included Brothers Gilbert, Moses, Merritt and Washington.
Later, Rev. Lorenzo Williams took over. He served for two years. Then Rev. Jordan R. Lofton led for 48 years. He served from 1858 to 1936. People called him “Father Lofton”. He was well-respected. Many new members joined the church under his leadership.
Under Rev. Lofton’s leadership, the church built a sanctuary. This was in 1893-94 on Dowling Street. The 1900 storm destroyed it. In 1910, they replaced it with a twin-tower frame structure. Cornerstones from those buildings are now part of the Anita Street church.
Rev. W. Joshua became pastor in 1932. He was a teacher and organizer. The church grew under him. He resigned after ten years.
In 1942, Rev. William Hayward Banks became pastor. Under his leadership, the church grew. Membership increased from 200 to 1500. Jordan Grove moved to its current location during his time. Many laymen entered the ministry. Rev. Banks resigned after 26 years.
Rev. Murphy H. Peterson became pastor in 1969. He brought a new order of worship. Ministries like the Deacon’s Family Ministry were born. The church acquired land and paid off the mortgage. Rev. Peterson passed away in 1986.
Rev. Jesse Jones served as interim pastor. Then, in 1987, Rev. David M. Roberts became pastor. He made great strides. Rev. Roberts resigned in 1992.
Rev. Carlos Washington became interim pastor. In 1993, Rev. Danny Davis was installed. He is the eighth pastor of Jordan Grove. Under his leadership, the church has made many accomplishments. Souls have been saved. Membership has grown.
Today, Jordan Grove Missionary Baptist Church continues to serve. It serves its members and the community. It stands as an important part of Houston’s African American history. This plaque commemorates its enduring legacy. It marks a place where faith and community intertwine. The story of Jordan Grove is a testament to the power of perseverance.