Ready to discover a beacon of faith? Today, we explore Beulah Baptist Church of Deanwood. This church stands as a testament to community spirit and unwavering dedication.
Beulah Baptist Church began in 1909. Rev. James Cobb saw a need for discipleship in the neighborhood. He organized a Sunday school. The need for a church body quickly emerged. Rev. Edward Blackwell became the first pastor.
The founding members were Albert and Edith Gay and their daughter Alberta. In 1912, twelve people from First Baptist Church in Fairmont Heights, Maryland, joined Beulah. The church membership grew significantly. Rev. Blackwell served as pastor from 1910 to 1914.
In 1915, during Rev. W. Dixon’s tenure, Beulah became an incorporated church in D.C. Mt. Airy Baptist Church contributed pews and an organ to Beulah. Rev. William B. Marsh became pastor in 1926. He served for nine years. The sanctuary was completed. Construction on the lower auditorium began.
Rev. Oliver W. Evans, one of Beulah’s own, became pastor in 1939. He served for twenty-two years. He didn’t accept a salary for four years until the mortgage was paid off. The lower auditorium was completed. Memorial windows were installed. The church purchased new furniture, a Hammond organ and a piano. Two lots were bought for a larger building.
Following Rev. Evans’ retirement, Rev. Moses L. Jackson, Jr. became pastor in 1961. He served for thirty-eight years. During his ministry, membership grew significantly. Land was purchased. Groundbreaking for the current building occurred in 1966. Dedication services were held in April 1967. The mortgage was paid off in 1976.
Dr. Jackson’s vision included serving the whole community. Additional land was purchased. A three-story building was bought. A parking lot was completed. The groundbreaking for a multi-purpose building was held in 1998.
Dr. Marcus E. Turner became pastor in 1999. He focused on quality in programs, activities, and leadership. One of his first tasks was completing the multi-purpose building. In 2003, a loan was secured for this. Dr. Turner developed a social media presence for the church.
In 2011, Beulah broke ground for a 63-unit townhouse development. It was named “Eden Place at Beulah Crossing.” In 2015, Beulah participated in the groundbreaking of a 39-unit apartment building. It was named “Eastbrooke at Beulah Crossing.”
In 2019, the 52-year-old sanctuary underwent a complete renovation. This included new HVAC, windows, audio and video equipment, and more.
Beulah licensed its first woman minister. First Lady Lisa S. Turner achieved this honor. Two deaconesses were also licensed.
For over a century, Beulah Baptist Church has served its community. It brings change and renewal to Deanwood Heights. Beulah stands ready to assist people to a better future. It introduces them to Jesus Christ. The church teaches them biblical principles.
Remember Beulah Baptist Church as a place of faith. It is a place of community. It is a place of service.