Founded in 1929 the Bright & Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church began as a humble Sunday school. It moved from house to house. Sisters Era Singletary and Lil Buncom and Reverend Williams Hunter were early members. Mr Matthew Still generously provided a house for their meetings. Reverend O C Johnny became their first pastor. A revival brought in three new members. The church officially organized with one deacon Duey Sudds.
The Bright & Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church’s growth was remarkable. Reverend Lonnie Williams was called and more deacons joined. Under Reverend Napoleon Cook a lot was purchased for $350. Membership swelled to around 100. Reverend Cook served for seven years. His successor Reverend F D Marston oversaw the construction of a church building using $300.
The Bright & Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church continued to expand. Reverend Henry Woodson’s pastorate saw incorporation and the formation of a board of directors. They bought another lot and rebuilt at 2026 Hollywood. A new Sunday school building followed. The church was sold in 1968. A loan enabled them to purchase the Emmanuel Baptist Church.
Under Reverend J H Woodson approximately 500 members joined. Reverend C L Townsel’s leadership saw the ordination of eighteen deacons. The congregation bought an organ and robes. They paid off debt and expanded. Membership soared by more than 1100.
Reverend Murphy L Hunt’s arrival in 1982 marked another era of growth. New ministries and departments flourished. Membership exceeded 3000. The church acquired vans copiers a sound system and choir robes. They also refurbished the sanctuary.
A groundbreaking ceremony for a Multi-Purpose Life Center happened in 1994. It opened in 1995 along with a summer day camp and tutoring program. The church bought adjacent buildings and lots. Further acquisitions included a sound system a copier and choir robes.
Pastor Theron J Jackson’s leadership saw continued growth. The church expanded its physical presence acquiring more properties. Contributions were processed electronically. A new sanctuary was constructed and opened in April 2018. New ministries were added reflecting a vibrant and evolving community of faith.
The Bright & Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church stands as a testament to enduring faith and community. It’s a story of growth perseverance and unwavering dedication. It’s a place where generations have found solace hope and fellowship. From humble beginnings to a modern sanctuary the church’s journey mirrors the unwavering spirit of its members.