Within the heart of Spring Valley stands First Baptist Church. This church is more than just bricks and mortar. It represents a legacy of faith, community, and perseverance.
First Baptist Church was established on June 1 1902. Back then, Reverend Morable and Deacons Arthur Gailes and Thomas Blount bought the land. The location at 56 Church Street cost them only $50. The early members worked hard. They sacrificed much under the leadership of several ministers. These included Reverends Morable, McDonald, John Ware, and more.
In 1941, Reverend E. L. Harrison arrived. He reestablished the Deacon Board. It had only three members. The congregation consisted of just twenty-two people. In 1952, Mrs. L. Davis became Mother of the Church. Mother Sallie Brown preceded her in this role.
As the church grew, a larger building became necessary. A building fund was started. Again, the members prayed and sacrificed to raise money. In 1955, Trustee Robert Woods and Deacon C. N. James purchased land. They bought the properties at Hoyt and Johnson Street from Dr. A.D. Schwartz for $6,300. Groundbreaking took place on May 4, 1963. The foundation was poured in September 1963.
On a sunny Sunday, June 14, 1964, a special procession occurred. Mother Davis sat on a mule-drawn cart. The congregation followed Reverend Harrison to the new location. The first service was held there. By then, membership had grown to two hundred and fifty.
Reverend Harrison achieved many things. He licensed three ministers. One was Reverend C. N. James who became his assistant. Eight Deacons were ordained. Several ministries and choirs were formed. These included the Deaconess Board and the Harrison Gospel Chorus. The first NAACP meeting in Rockland County was held at First Baptist Church.
Reverend Harrison wanted to burn the mortgage. Sadly, he passed away on December 9, 1971. His dream came true in October 1972. After his passing, Deacon Sidney Allen and other leaders kept the church going.
In April 1972, Reverend Weldon McWilliams, Jr. became the pastor. He has led the congregation for over 40 years. The Pastor chose Rev. Annie Artis as his assistant in 1973. Sister Hattie Edwards was appointed Mother of the Church.
Under Pastor McWilliams, many ministries were established or reorganized. These included the Usher Board and the Male Chorus. First Baptist Church hosts a commemorative service each year. This service celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King’s Birthday.
The church building was enlarged to meet the needs of the members. The choir stand was remodeled and a baptismal pool was installed. New rooms were added downstairs. The church acquired a garage and two vans. These helped pick up senior citizens and Sunday School children. The parking lot was renewed and a handicap ramp installed. A steeple, new carpeting, cushioned pews, and stained-glass windows were added. Additional land was purchased to enlarge the parking area.
A Christian Education and Cultural Enrichment Center was built. It provides more space for religious education. On November 29, 1987, a groundbreaking ceremony was held. The center has twelve rooms. They are used for meetings and Sunday School classes. The mortgage for the center was burned ahead of schedule on July 12, 1999.
Pastor McWilliams started building funds. These funds helped repay debts quickly. Members pledged monthly sums to support these funds. Finances were repaid in advance each time.
Sister Susie Bussey and Sister Ruby Allen became Mothers of the Church in October 1988. Reverend Artis started a Noon Day Prayer service. It takes place every Friday. A Bible Study Class is held on Thursday evenings.
New members attend classes with the Pastor and Deacons. Baptism and Communion are held every first Sunday. A New Members class curriculum was started in January 1993. This class helps new members understand the Baptist Doctrine.
A Time Capsule dedication marked the church’s 100th Anniversary in 2002. Twenty-five youth will open the capsule on April 17, 2053. Sis. Martha Gordon was appointed Mother of the church in 2007. A church website was created in 2008. Properties were purchased to increase parking capacity.
First Baptist Church continues to thrive. It has a large ministerial staff, Deacons, and Trustees. They thank God for continued growth in His service. The church also offers ministries. KIDS CLUB includes Sunday School and Junior Worship Service. Cross Connection events occur quarterly. The East County Bible Basketball Tournament gathers young players. It combines competition with the preaching of God’s Word.
First Baptist Church of Spring Valley welcomes all. It strives to do the Master’s Will. It is a place of healing and refuge. Here, faith and community come together.