In 1950 a group of Christians gathered. Rev RL Copeland led them. They formed the Worldwide Missionary Baptist Church. This wasn’t just a church. It was a beacon. A testament to faith in a changing city.
Initially they met with the Conventional Baptist Church. They shared space on Chene and Hunt Street. Soon the Worldwide Missionary Baptist Church outgrew this arrangement. They moved to a small building at 5031 St Aubin Street. Their congregation thrived. Their numbers swelled.
In 1964 Pastor Copeland moved them again. This time to a larger building on Carpenter Street. He served diligently for 18 years. His leadership laid the groundwork for decades of growth. He established a foundation of faith. He built a community.
Rev SE Thornton became pastor in 1966. Under his guidance they purchased their first church home. It was located at 535 East Frederick. Three years later they moved again. They purchased a larger building. This one was at 11501 Hilger at Kercheval.
Pastor Thornton resigned in 1973. A period of uncertainty followed. Three months passed before they elected a new leader. Rev Frank E Calloway became their pastor in November 1973. He was a capable minister. His leadership was transformative.
Under Pastor Calloway’s guidance the church mortgage was paid. A baptistery was installed. Improvements were made. The church became more accessible. New doors and pulpit furniture arrived. Even a new organ was added. Sadly the city purchased their property. Chrysler Corporation’s expansion necessitated the move.
On September 20 1987 they moved to their current location. Pastor Calloway continued to lead. They paid off the mortgage of their new building. In 1994 they celebrated a cornerstone laying ceremony.
Pastor Calloway retired in 1994. He remained pastor emeritus until his passing in 1998. Rev William A Cunningham became pastor. He served until his passing in 2018. He oversaw many improvements. The sanctuary was beautified. Restrooms were added. The parking lot was paved. The church continued to grow.
In 2019 Rev Derek Joshua E’Lon Sr was elected pastor. He had served as associate minister for sixteen years. Under his leadership a new sound and audio visual system was installed. A new website and social media pages were launched. This shows the church’s commitment to remaining relevant and reaching a wider audience.
The Worldwide Missionary Baptist Church has a rich history. It’s a story of growth. It’s a story of faith. It’s a story of community. This is a story of resilience. It’s a story written in the heart of Detroit.