Why does this church stand as a testament to faith and community? Antioch Baptist Church began its journey post-Civil War. It emerged from the union of white and Black members at Little Zion Baptist Church.
After the Civil War the white members built Hanover Church. They deeded Little Zion to the Black members in July 1868. This marked the beginning of Antioch Baptist Church. Trustees Samuel and Joseph Manning plus Benjamin Carter helped organize it. John and George Dunlop together with Isaac Wood also helped. They started the voyage to rescue the perishing. They comforted those in distress. The led those astray back to a port of eternal joy.
Reverend Montague initially directed the church. Rev. Moses Myers aided in services. Rev. John Fleming became the first official pastor. During his time, fire destroyed the church. The congregation erected a log building for services.
Rev. David Walker followed as the second pastor. A frame structure was erected during his administration. The cornerstone was laid June 16 1886. Rev. Zachariah Gainey served faithfully as the third pastor. Rev. Lewis Marshall was the fourth pastor. He died after ten years of service. The present building was erected under his guidance. Rev. Gainey laid the foundation. Rev. William Greer helped as well. Rev. Alonza D. Robinson completed the church. He served for seven years.
Rev. Frank C. Bundy, the sixth pastor, was a son of Antioch. Under his leadership two anterooms were constructed. Pews were purchased. An offering for Foreign Missions was established. Rev. William H. Waller organized the choir. He purchased the piano. Repairs were made to the church. Rev. Aaron Mackley served for three years.
Rev. John B. Waller painted the church. A furnace was installed. Electrical fixtures were purchased. A choir stand was built. Rev. E. L. R. Guss installed the Free Will Pledge System. A registry of members was started. He purchased the organ. Stained-glass windows were added.
Rev. Moses A. Knott established a financial system. The church was painted. Rev. Rafe M. Taylor oversaw the addition to the church. Rev. J.E. Penn paid off the mortgage for the addition. He started the scholarship fund.
Rev. Clinton D. McNair reorganized the church. A youth choir was organized. The lower auditorium and kitchen were finished. Rev. Donald L. Caldwell renovated the church. The late Rev. Donald Caldwell’s dream was fulfilled.
Rev. Carl V. Messiah established the Women’s Organization. He started the Birthday Rally. A church bus was purchased. In June 1976, the mortgage for the renovation was paid off. Rev. Earl A. Ross added members to the church.
Rev. William A. Thorpe enhanced the beauty of the edifice. The parking lot was black-topped. A handicap ramp was installed. Glass doors were installed. The edifice was renovated.
Rev. Dr. Frank S. Smith wrote the Church Constitution and By-laws. The church theme changed. Rev. Dr. Larry Finch Sr. established Worship on Wednesday services. Rev. Dr. Kendrick Bailey is working diligently with the congregation.
Antioch Baptist Church has progressed. She can boast of being the Mother Church of the county. Saint Stephens, Little Ark, and Union Bethel Baptist Churches are her daughters. Antioch stands with hope. Its legacy continues through its dedicated members. The church’s youth ministry supports and empowers young people. They grow in faith. They develop lifelong friendships. They navigate life’s challenges.