“Preach,” a voice commanded young Darius Nathanial Benford. That divine calling led him and eventually shaped the Rising Star Baptist Church.
Rising Star Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith community and global outreach. It is a beacon of hope in Houston. The church’s journey began in 1976. Rev I. C. Green was the founder and first pastor.
Imagine the first service. It was December 5 1976. Forty-three charter members gathered. They included an associate minister one deacon and twenty choir members.
Just days later Rev Milton Robinson found their first building at 34 West 34th Street. The members rented it with an option to buy. On December 12 1976 they held their first service there. Three new members joined that day.
In 1977 the church decided to purchase the building. After much effort and prayer the building was paid off in 1986.
For over 35 years Rising Star Baptist Church experienced growth. Its membership expanded. Its ministries grew. Today the church has over 1000 members. It has 50 ministries. These ministries address the needs of both members and the wider community. Each year people from different backgrounds join the Rising Star family.
Rising Star’s outreach extends beyond its walls. It has partnerships in Southern Arizona including Church on the Street. This ministry reaches those in need. Rising Star also partners with Goshen Ministries. This outreach supports African refugees in Southern Arizona.
The church’s global reach includes the National Baptist Convention New Initiatives Program. It also supports children in Zambia Africa through the Christian Alliance for Children. The church contributes to the Humanitarian Aid Foundation World Relief Organization too.
In 2005 God blessed Rising Star to purchase land for a new campus. The 4.3-acre site is located at 2800 East 36th Street. On October 29 2005 they held a groundbreaking service. Construction began.
The church was completed passed all inspections. On March 31 2007 a victory march took place. Members marched from the old building to the new campus. The first official service was held on April 1 2007 one week before Easter. The turnout was tremendous.
Rising Star continued to expand. The church bought three houses east of the campus for future parking adding to a total of five acres.
Rising Star is known for servant leadership sound teaching and genuine love. It ministers to the whole person. Its message is one of faith hope and love.
Under Pastor Lewis’s leadership the church grew. Following the Holy Spirit the church continues to be energized with new life. Rising Star is determined to let God build His church His way for His glory.
One notable figure was Reverend Darius Nathanial Benford. He served as pastor of Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church in Texas City for 73 years. His leadership spanned seven decades and 14 US Presidents.
Rising Star Baptist Church stands as a beacon. It embodies faith service and community. Its history reflects a commitment to spreading God’s love both locally and globally. Its story shows what faith and determination can achieve.