Remember December 26, 1946. It was the day after Christmas when tragedy struck Good Street Baptist Church. The entire church burned to the ground. But from the ashes, a new chapter began.
Good Street Baptist Church has a rich history. It began with the Macedonia Baptist Church in 1884. Rev. A.R. Griggs organized it. The church was first located on Montezuma Street. Later it moved to 902 North Good-Latimer Expressway.
In 1907, under Dr. L. K. Williams, a one-story frame building was built. Then, in 1922, Dr. E. Arlington Wilson oversaw the construction of a four-story brick building. These early leaders set a strong foundation for the church.
In 1934, Good Street Baptist Church was officially organized. It emerged from the Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church. Dr. T.M. Chambers became the first pastor under the new name. He served for fourteen years. After the devastating fire in 1946, the congregation didn’t lose hope. They held services at Booker T. Washington High School. This continued while a new building was constructed on the same site.
May 23, 1948, marked a joyous occasion. Good Street Baptist Church held its first service in the new building. Dr. Chambers continued to lead for two more years. He then moved to Los Angeles to pastor Zion Hill Baptist Church.
Reverend Caesar Arthur Walter Clark began his influential pastorate on September 10, 1950. He brought vision and strong preaching to Good Street Baptist Church. Pastor Clark formed new groups and strengthened existing ones. The church purchased three parsonages. It formed the Good Street Church Community Center. The church also acquired vehicles, including a 70-passenger school bus. Additionally, the property at Hatcher and Roberts Streets in South Dallas was purchased.
In 1960, Good Street Baptist Church celebrated a significant achievement. It burned the mortgage on all outstanding debt. The Good Street Charitable Foundation was founded in 1964. Good Haven Apartments were purchased. This property spanned approximately 19,439 acres and contained 332 units. A nursery and kindergarten school were also established there.
A new, larger location was purchased in 1969. On May 3, 1970, the Good Street Baptist Church members marched to their new home at 3110 Bonnie View Road. The church mortgage was paid off in 1981. In 1982, a Learning Center was added. It was for the children’s Sunday school classes. The C.A.W. Clark Community Center opened in March 1992. The Good Street Baptist Church Credit Union and a legal clinic were also organized.
Pastor Clark’s ministry extended far beyond Dallas. He preached on at least three continents. He was deeply loved and respected throughout America. On July 27, 2008, Pastor Clark passed away at the age of 93. He had faithfully served Good Street Baptist Church for 57 years. His famous saying, “…and all the people said Amen!” will always be remembered.
From 2008 to August 2012, Rev. Ronald L. Anglin served as interim pastor. He maintained unity within the church family. Rev. Anglin’s familiar words, “…It’s good to be in the house of the Lord, just one more time!” resonate with many.
Rev. Eddie L. Jenkins became the pastor on August 26, 2012. He brought a vision of “New Beginnings… Pressing On With Purpose, Great Power and a New Leader.” Pastor Jenkins encourages the church to raise expectations. He challenges them to break religious routines. He inspires them to move forward in faith and service.
Good Street Baptist Church continues to shine. Its mission is clear. They evangelize, edify, and exalt the Savior. They build families and transform lives. They seek, teach, reach, evangelize, exalt, and trust in God. The church provides many resources to its members and the community. These include the Good Street Learning Center. There is also the C.A.W. Clark Legal Clinic. The Good Street Social Service Center assists those in need.
Today, Good Street Baptist Church stands as a beacon of hope. It is a testament to faith, resilience, and community. It welcomes all who seek spiritual growth and service.