“Determined to serve the God-of-the-Bible.” That’s more than just a motto here at Greater Morning Star Baptist Church. It’s a story spanning over a century.
Greater Morning Star Baptist Church has stood as a beacon of faith. It has stood as a community cornerstone since 1893. Imagine Tampa in those days. The city was still finding its footing. A small group of Christians felt a calling. They wanted to establish a place of worship. They sought to adhere to the teachings of the Holy Bible.
These founding members included Rev. Washington M. Taylor. He was the church’s first pastor and president. There was also Brother George Variste. He served as Vice-President. Brother Esau Brandon was Secretary. Brother Anthony Wilson acted as Treasurer. These individuals laid the foundation. They focused on religious and moral guidance. They wanted academic teaching for the children. Their vision led to the Morning Star Baptist Church School of East Baton Rouge.
Leadership transitions marked the early years of Greater Morning Star Baptist Church. After Rev. Taylor’s passing in 1931, Reverend Louis Severan became the second Pastor. He organized the first Usher Board in 1939. Following Rev. Severan’s departure in 1947, Rev. Albert Parker took the helm. He established the first Church Choir.
In December 1957, Rev. Wilbert Jackson became the fourth Pastor. He was ordained at Mount Gillion Baptist Church. Rev. Jackson appointed numerous deacons and deaconesses. These included Brother Frank Brigham and Sister Ophelia Bell. During his tenure, Pastor’s Aid was organized. Sister Virginia Carter led it. Home Mission was created by First Lady Josie Jackson.
A significant change occurred in 1977. Morning Star Baptist Church became Greater Morning Star Baptist Church. Rev. Jackson served faithfully until his retirement in 1984. He then assumed the position of Pastor Emeritus. Rev. Charles L. Burris, Sr., became Acting Pastor.
In May 1984, Greater Morning Star Baptist Church elected Reverend Dr. Charles Lee Burris, Sr., as Pastor. He was ordained at Pleasant Green Baptist Church. Under Rev. Burris’s leadership, the church grew spiritually. It also grew financially. A new sanctuary became necessary. In 2005, the church sold its property. Except for its historic cemetery. A new 3.25-acre plot on Mavis Drive became the new site. On August 13, 2006, Greater Morning Star Baptist Church held its first service in the new facility.
Following Rev. Dr. Burris, Sr.’s passing in 2009, Rev. Charles Lee Burris, Jr., became the sixth Pastor in 2010. Under his leadership, the church established new ministries. These ministries included the Men’s and Boys’ Ministry. Also the Sick and Shut-In Ministry.
Today, Greater Morning Star Baptist Church continues to thrive. Founded in 1893. It remains a God-fearing church. It is determined to serve. All praises to God for over a century of worship. All praises for fellowship, teaching, and preaching!