“What would it be like to witness a community’s transformation?” I ask you now. That transformation is deeply intertwined with the story of Fifth Ward Baptist Church.
Fifth Ward Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith. It embodies resilience in the face of adversity. Its history is not just about bricks and mortar. It is a story of community upliftment.
The church’s story began in 1944. It started in the home of Brother and Sister J.B. Foreman. The address was 615 Jensen Drive. Key figures like Rev. Roosevelt Gaines and Rev. D.C. Mitchell were present. They founded what was initially known as Second Corinth Baptist Church.
Seventy members attended the first service. It was held at Mt. Corinth Baptist Church. At that service, the name changed to Fifth Ward Missionary Baptist Church. Early services then moved to the I.L.A. Hall on Schwartz Street.
The church quickly grew. It purchased land on Gregg Street. However, the Houston Independent School District bought it for a child center. Fifth Ward Baptist Church then acquired property at 1713 Bringhurst. Here, a new building was constructed.
Rev. D.C. Mitchell served as pastor until his death in 1962. Rev. F.W. McIlveen then took over. Under his leadership, the church expanded. Membership grew from 589 to 1,141. A fund was created to expand the church facilities.
The Bringhurst property was sold to HISD. The church then bought property on Noble Street. The first service at the Noble Street sanctuary occurred in 1968.
In 1989, Rev. Delbert Allen Mack became pastor. He emphasized community involvement. Fifth Ward Baptist Church became a resource for senior citizens and youth. Rev. Leonard N. Barksdale III followed as pastor in 1994.
Under Pastor Barksdale, the church continued to grow. New classrooms were added. Properties were purchased to extend the church grounds. The Faith Revitalization Center was incorporated. It served the community better. The Carl Walker, Jr. Multi-Purpose Center was completed in 2003. It offers programs for all residents.
In 2009, more lots were purchased on Sumpter Street. In 2015, Rev. Timothy Wayne Criswell was elected as pastor. He was installed in 2016. Under Pastor Criswell, the church retired the note for the Multi-Purpose Center. The sanctuary was remodeled in 2019.
Fifth Ward Baptist Church’s mission is clear. It provides a foundation of love. It stands on biblical truths. It equips others to spread the Gospel.
Fifth Ward Baptist Church stands as a beacon of hope. It shows faith can transform a community. Its history reflects dedication. The church’s commitment to love, service, and community upliftment continues.