“Little” might be in the name Greater Little Zion Church but its history is anything but small. This church stands as a testament to faith and community. It has a rich story woven into the very fabric of this place.
Welcome to Greater Little Zion Church. We will explore its origins and its impact on the community.
Back in 1883 some Christian men and women saw the need for a place to worship. They organized a church initially named Zion Chapel Baptist Church. It was located on Johnstown Road in the Great Bridge section of Norfolk County.
Reverend Jacob Gaskins was the first pastor. After renting for three years the members bought the present site on December 29 1886. The members felt that the word “Chapel” suggested a small church. As the membership grew the name changed to Little Zion Baptist Church in the early 1900s.
Deacon Jesse Saunders William Brooks and Casper Tillery were among the founders. African Walke and John Dozier were also key figures. Deacons A. B. Crudup and Johnnie Walke followed later. Annias Reid Moses Jarvis and Nathaniel Stancil Jr. also contributed. Early Ricks Willie Sidney James Brooks and James Lamb were also important. I.W. Jarvis and Isaiah Miller completed this group. These God-fearing men built upon the “Solid Rock.” Today we benefit from their hard work.
Reverend W.P. Jones was followed by other ministers. Reverend Mack Mahagony and Reverend Zachariah White took over. Reverend A.B. Askew and Reverend J.E. Mack led the church too. Reverend G.L. Parker and Reverend W.A. Baker also served. Reverend James E. Childs and Reverend J.P. Williams followed. Reverend S.D. Shepherd and Dr. William H. Chatman were also pastors. Currently Reverend Johnny Henderson is the pastor.
The building remained mostly unchanged until the late 1960s. Stained glass windows were installed. A sidewalk was laid in front of the church. Men were responsible for church repairs. Women were responsible for keeping the church clean.
The church followed biblical principles. This helped it survive through the years. It was like one big family. Everyone did what was needed. Little Zion has always had outstanding women. Phyllis White and Missouri Clemons were among them. Betsy White and Georgina Saunders also contributed. India Stancil Mary Lisa Ballard and Carrie Jarvis were involved too. Ada Ricks and Corrine Welch also served the church.
Little Zion has been blessed with several associate ministers. Reverends Charlie Griffin and Albert Green made unique contributions. Reverend Ruth Pearson and Reverend Brenda Dyson were also associate ministers. Reverend Sheldon Davis and Reverend Bobby Fenner served as well. A. Earl Parker Jan Wimbush and Trudy Dickens were also part of the ministry. Willie Gibbs and Marcia Carter completed the list. The late Reverend Charlie Griffin started the Jail Ministry. He served as assistant to the Jail Chaplain.
Church membership continues to grow. This growth inspires new programs. These programs benefit both members and the community. “Missionary” was added to the name. It is now Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church.
Reverend William H. Chatman became interim Pastor on May 1 2005. He was installed as Pastor on July 9 2006. Under his leadership the Senior’s Ministry was created. The Men’s and Women’s Fellowship Ministry was reorganized. The Youth and Deaconess Ministries were reconstructed.
Under Pastor Chatman’s leadership the church started its first Summer Youth Camp and Family Fellowship Night. In 2008 land was purchased behind the church. An organ a new church van and a minibus were acquired. In May 2010 the pastor’s study was enlarged and renovated. In January 2011 the mortgage on the land behind the church was paid off.
God continues to bless Little Zion. Minister Marcia Carter was ordained on May 27 2016. She is a valuable part of the Church Ministry.
Reverend Johnny Henderson was elected as Senior Pastor on September 26 2020. We thank God for sending Reverend Henderson. We are excited to be fed under his leadership. Over the years God has given us His grace mercy and love. We thank Him for bringing us this far by faith. We continue to depend totally upon Him.
Greater Little Zion Church’s mission is clear. It aims to be a knowledge-based Christian Church. It is committed to fulfilling God’s purpose. This involves reaching lost souls and winning them for His kingdom.
The church promotes spiritual growth. It supports its members. It helps people in all areas of life. It preaches and teaches God’s Word as commanded in Matthew 28:19-20.
It assists members in building strong spiritual relationships. This happens between all members of the body of Christ.
The Greater Little Zion Church stands as a beacon. It shines brightly in the community. Its history inspires and its mission uplifts. It is a testament to faith and community.