Childs Church

Step back in time and let your imagination wander as we stand before Childs Church, a true testament to faith and resilience. This historic church, a beacon of hope for generations, witnessed both joy and hardship in its long and compelling story. It all started in 1923 when the Ebenezer Baptist Church moved to North 10th Street below Girard Avenue. Reverend Childs, the pastor at the time, was dearly loved by his congregation, but tragically left them too soon. This marked the start of a journey that would test everyone’s faith. In 1932, the church was facing a serious financial crisis, dividing the congregation into those who stayed and those who left. But even without a church home, those who left were determined to continue their service to God. Led by Henry A. Himmons, John Monroe, Edward Adams, and Edward M. Baker, this group began holding services in Clayton Hall, then the Strand Theatre, even temporarily using their homes when necessary. While they worked tirelessly to establish a permanent home, the remaining members of Ebenezer Baptist Church on North 10th Street found themselves without a home of their own as the church became locked due to unpaid bills. This is where Mr. Baker and his determined group seized an opportunity. They recognized that God had provided a way to reopen those locked doors on North 10th Street. With a major fundraising drive and generous donations, including pledges backed by personal properties, they managed to pay off the debts and reclaim their church building. They returned to the former Ebenezer Baptist Church building on North 10th Street, led by the tireless Deacon Frank Mitchell, beginning a new chapter in their history. This is Childs Church, a constant in a changing world, forever reminding us that the spirit of faith can overcome all obstacles.