Good Tree Missionary Baptist Church

Beneath the shade of a symbolic good tree, let’s explore the Good Tree Missionary Baptist Church. This church’s roots trace back to a different name and location. In 1884, the Macedonia Baptist Church, founded by Rev. A.R. Griggs, stood on Montezuma Street. Later, it moved to 902 North Good-Latimer Expressway. A one-story frame building was built in 1907 under Dr. L. K. Williams. A four-story brick structure followed in 1922 during Dr. E. Arlington Wilson’s leadership. The church thrived under several pastors, including Revs. Z.T. Pardee, F.K. White, A.C. Capers, and S.E.J. Watson. A transformation occurred on July 19, 1934. The Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church became the Good Street Baptist Church. Dr. T.M. Chambers led this new chapter. Tragedy struck on December 26, 1946, when the church burned down. Services continued at Booker T. Washington High School. A new building rose on the original site, opening on May 23, 1948. Rev. Caesar Arthur Walter Clark became pastor on September 10, 1950. He brought a dynamic vision. He oversaw the purchase of parsonages, established the Good Street Church Community Center, acquired vehicles, and land at Hatcher and Roberts Streets. By 1960, all church debts were paid. The Good Street Charitable Foundation, a non-profit, was founded in 1964. They acquired the 332-unit Good Haven Apartments on nearly 20 acres. A nursery and kindergarten also operated there. In 1969, a new church location was purchased at 3110 Bonnie View Road. The congregation marched into this new Good Street Baptist Church on May 3, 1970. By 1981, all debts were paid. A Learning Center for Sunday school followed in 1982. In 1991, a community center was built at 3126 Hatcher Street, opening as the C.A.W. Clark Community Center on March 23, 1992. A credit union and legal clinic were also added during Pastor Clark’s tenure. Pastor Clark’s ministry spanned continents and touched countless lives. He served Good Street Baptist Church for 57 years, passing away on July 27, 2008, at age 93. Rev. Ronald L. Anglin served as interim pastor until 2012, guiding the church through transition. Rev. Eddie L. Jenkins, from Michigan City, Indiana, became pastor on August 26, 2012, bringing a vision of “New Beginnings.” Good Tree Missionary Baptist Church continues to serve its community, guided by its mission to evangelize, edify, and exalt.