Here at Greater Harvest Baptist Church, faith and community intertwine. Greater Harvest Baptist Church has a rich history rooted in service and growth. The church’s story began on March 16, 1953. Reverend Theodore A. Kurtz led the Spring Branch Community Church. It was located at 1101 Whatcoat Street.
Reverend Timothy Boddie of New Shiloh Baptist Church assisted Rev. Kurtz. Deacon York Eggleston served as chairman. The church changed its name to Greater Harvest Baptist Church. In May 1953, it moved to 2045 West North Avenue.
Throughout its history, Greater Harvest Baptist Church has been blessed. Productive Christian ministers have served as pastors. In 1954, Rev. Salters Burgess became pastor after Rev. Kurtz resigned. Under Rev. Burgess, the church grew. On December 16, 1955, Greater Harvest Baptist Church moved to a larger building at 2661 Harlem Avenue. Rev. Burgess retired on January 13, 1960.
Reverend Wilborn Gilmore was elected next. He served until his resignation in December 1972. Deacon Thomas J. Howell Sr. led the church during the interim. In April 1973, Rev. John Pettiford became pastor. The church continued to grow under his leadership. On December 14, 1975, Greater Harvest Baptist Church marched to 1617 West Saratoga Street. On January 30, 1984, Rev. Pettiford passed away.
Deacon Jerry Griffin sustained the church until October 1985. Then, Rev. Errol D. Gilliard Sr. was elected. He was installed on April 26, 1986. Rev. Gilliard pushed Greater Harvest Baptist Church to new heights. His passion included evangelism and community work. Rev. Gilliard served until his death on September 17, 2016.
During Rev. Gilliard’s illness, Rev. Brent A. Brown became Executive Pastor. He served from early 2016. In November 2016, he was elected Pastor. On April 30, 2017, Rev. Brown was installed as the fifth pastor.
Rev. Errol D. Gilliard Sr. served Greater Harvest Baptist Church for over 30 years. He was also president of the Baptist Minister’s Conference of Baltimore. Rev. Gilliard was a passionate advocate for African Americans. During Baltimore’s civil unrest in 2015, he led clergy in de-escalating violence. They walked through West Baltimore hand-in-hand.
Rev. Gilliard organized the Greater Harvest Baptist Church Housing Corporation. He also created the Family Life Center. He spoke out against violence and gang activity. Rev. Gilliard believed in the responsibility of the church and community.
Today, Greater Harvest Baptist Church continues to thrive. It is a body of disciples bringing generations to Christ. They equip believers for successful lives. Greater Harvest Baptist Church operates in ministry with excellence. It maintains its unique voice. Rev. Brown leads the church into deeper spiritual growth. The church increases membership with innovative ministry approaches.