Beulah Baptist Church

Gazing upon Beulah Baptist Church, can you hear the echoes of 114 years of service? Beulah Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith and community. It has served Deanwood Heights since 1909. It began as a humble Sunday school led by Rev. James Cobb. The need for a church became clear. Rev. Edward Blackwell became the first pastor. The church’s foundation was laid by Albert and Edith Gay and their daughter Alberta. Twelve members from First Baptist Church in Fairmont Heights, Maryland, joined in 1912. This significantly expanded Beulah Baptist Church’s fellowship. Rev. Blackwell guided the church from 1910 to 1914. Beulah Baptist Church became officially incorporated in 1915 under Rev. W. Dixon. He served for ten years. The church received pews and an organ from Mt. Airy Baptist Church. This happened when Rev. J.D. Catlett became pastor in 1925. Rev. William B. Marsh served from 1926 to 1935. During this time, the Oliver W. Evans Center was built. Construction also began on the lower auditorium. One of Beulah Baptist Church’s own sons, Rev. Oliver W. Evans, became pastor in 1939. He served for 22 years, initially refusing a salary until the mortgage was paid. The lower auditorium was finished during his tenure. Memorial windows were installed. New pulpit furniture, a Hammond organ, and a piano were also acquired. Land was purchased for future expansion. Rev. Moses L. Jackson, Jr. served as pastor from 1961 to 1999. The congregation grew substantially under his leadership. The current edifice’s groundbreaking was in 1966, with dedication in 1967. The mortgage was burned in 1976. Dr. Jackson’s vision extended to acquiring more land and a three-story building on Dix Street. A parking lot was also completed. Construction of a multi-purpose building began in 1998. Dr. Marcus E. Turner became pastor in 1999. He focused on strengthening programs, organization, and leadership. He oversaw the completion of the multi-purpose building. Dr. Turner also established the church’s social media presence. Beulah Baptist Church licensed its first female minister, Lisa S. Turner, in 2012. Two deaconesses were also licensed. Another minister, Cynthia E. Smith, was licensed in 2018. Following the tradition of community service, Beulah Baptist Church spearheaded the “Eden Place at Beulah Crossing” townhouse development in 2011 and the “Eastbrooke at Beulah Crossing” apartments in 2015. In 2019, the 52-year-old sanctuary underwent a complete renovation. Beulah Baptist Church stands not only as a place of worship but also as a vital center for the Deanwood Heights community.