“Kingdom Come” is more than just a slogan here at Antioch Church. It’s a way of life. Welcome. We gather each week to encounter God’s presence. We celebrate what He is doing. We learn to become more wholehearted disciples of Jesus.
Antioch Church isn’t just a building. It’s a community. It’s a place where God’s presence changes everything. You can expect worship, testimonies, and Biblical teaching here.
This vibrant community extends beyond Sunday gatherings. House Churches are at the heart of what we do. They meet regularly to share life, seek God, and reach out to others. These small groups embody the church described in Acts. Remember Acts 2:42-47? It’s all about community.
Now, let’s dive into the story behind the name Antioch Church. The original Antioch Baptist Church emerged from the hearts of former slaves in 1868. Racism was rampant. Brave men from Paulina and nearby plantations formed a burial society. They called it the Anti-Yoke Society.
Located in Paulina, the society was like burial insurance. Members paid dues and the society covered funeral expenses. “Yoke” means a bar joining two animals. Emerging from slavery, they chose “Anti-Yoke” to symbolize their freedom. It meant they were not tied to anyone. They were neither owned nor shackled. For the first time, they were unbound and free.
Under Anthony Gloster’s leadership, the group bought land in 1870. They paid Michel Martin four hundred dollars. The former church and schools sat on this land. Few members could read or write, but they sought to improve the spiritual lives of black citizens.
The society’s building hosted church services. The Congregation of the Anti-Yoke held regular services in a shack-like structure. It grew inadequate for the growing membership. This was the only black congregation for miles on the east bank.
Many last names from the original roll are still found in the church’s membership. These include Anthony Gloster and Rev. John Lewis. Much of the early history is unclear due to few written records. Rev. Thomas Allen, a former slave, was the first pastor. In 1890, the church was renamed Antioch Baptist Church. It became the first black church in the area. Rev. Allen served for forty-eight years.
In 1973, Rev. Ferdinand Gaines Jr. became the sixth pastor. He focused on spiritual development and Christian education. He taught Sunday School, Bible Class, and other classes. His theme was love, forgiveness, and patience.
Membership grew. The church purchased 3.5 acres on LA Highway 3125. With a new complex came a new name. It became First Community Antioch Baptist Church. This reflected its role as a community resource.
Phase one was completed in 1999. It included the sanctuary, classrooms, offices, and a childcare room. Phase two followed in 2005. This added more classrooms, a chapel, a library, and a Family Life Center.
Under Rev. Gaines, the church grew to over 1200 members. It had over 22 ministries, including foreign missions. Locally, they provided financial assistance and other programs.
In February 2020, Rev. Gaines passed away. It was also the start of the Coronavirus pandemic. For the first time, the church was without a leader. Services moved online. In October 2021, Dr. Steven Dale Beckham was elected as the new pastor.
Antioch Church continues to evolve. It remains a beacon of hope and community. The spirit of those former slaves lives on. It is a testament to faith, freedom, and the enduring power of community.