“Have you ever considered how a church building can embody the spirit of a community?
Here we are at the Antioch Baptist Church. It stands as a beacon of faith and resilience in Brooklyn. Its story is one of humble beginnings. It is also a testament to the enduring strength of the African-American community.
The Antioch Baptist Church started as a small group. These included Deacon George Williams and Reverend Benne Baker. They sought a spiritual home during a time of growth for Black churches in Brooklyn. In 1918, Reverend Moses Prophet Paylor founded the Antioch Baptist Church.
Reverend Paylor rented a church on Fleet Street. The congregation grew quickly. Antioch bought its first property on Duffield Street. This marked a significant step in the church’s history.
Reverend Paylor was a man of great faith. He studied at Columbia University. He was active in many religious organizations. He earned a Doctor of Divinity degree. Under his leadership, Antioch’s finances and membership flourished. By 1944, the church had paid off all its debts.
In 1950, Antioch needed a larger space. The congregation moved to 828 Greene Avenue. This building had previously housed the Greene Avenue Baptist Church. Reverend Paylor served Antioch for 40 years. He passed away in 1958. He left behind a thriving congregation.
Reverend George Lawrence became the second pastor in 1959. He was a civil rights leader. He worked closely with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Many prominent figures visited Antioch during his tenure. These included Aretha Franklin and Jackie Robinson. Reverend Lawrence served until his death in 1983.
In 1986, Reverend Phillip E. Elliott became the third pastor. He initiated many community programs. These included Antioch Place and Antioch Community Services. The church gained Landmark Preservation status in 1990.
Reverend D. Darrell Griffin followed in 1997. He focused on restoring the church building. He also established a Capital Building Fund.
In 2001, Reverend Dr. Robert M. Waterman took over. He continued Antioch’s legacy of spiritual leadership.
The Antioch Baptist Church building is a blend of architectural styles. Lansing C. Holden designed it in the Queen Anne style with Romanesque Revival elements. It was built between 1887 and 1892. The adjacent church house is a row house designed by Langston and Dahlander. It was built around 1892-93.
The Antioch Baptist Church has a rich musical history too. The Austin Organ Company installed a new organ in 1920. It had a three-manual console and many stops.
The Antioch Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith. It also shows the power of community. Its history reflects the struggles and triumphs of its members. The church continues to serve as a vital anchor in Bedford-Stuyvesant. It offers spiritual guidance, community support and a sense of belonging to all who enter its doors.”