Greater Saint Stephen Full Gospel Baptist Church East Location

Have you ever heard of a church that rose from the ashes, not once, but twice? This is the story of Greater Saint Stephen Full Gospel Baptist Church East Location, a beacon of faith and resilience in New Orleans East. Greater Saint Stephen has a history that spans over eight decades, originating in Uptown New Orleans with a congregation of just 69 people. One of those founding members was the grandmother of Debra B. Morton, who now leads the church alongside her husband, Bishop Paul S. Morton, Sr. Greater Saint Stephen Full Gospel Baptist Church expanded under Bishop Morton’s leadership, adding locations in New Orleans East and on the Westbank, becoming “One Church in Three Locations.” The church’s journey has been marked by both triumph and tragedy. In 1969, a 12-year expansion plan was launched, culminating in the Greater St. Stephen Plaza, complete with an educational center, nursery, senior housing, and a youth center. By the late 1980s, the church boasted a 4,000-seat sanctuary in New Orleans East and a 1,500-seat sanctuary on the Westbank. Then came Hurricane Katrina. The storm devastated all three locations. While the Mortons found refuge in Atlanta, their spirit remained with their New Orleans community. With unwavering determination, they repaired the two less damaged locations – the Westbank and Uptown sanctuaries. Just as things seemed to be returning to normal, tragedy struck again. In 2008, an electrical fire destroyed the Uptown location. The congregation found temporary homes at Temple Sinai New Orleans and McDonogh #35 Senior High School. With the help of the community, the main campus in East New Orleans was rebuilt, a testament to the church’s resilience. Greater Saint Stephen Full Gospel Baptist Church East Location stands today as a symbol of hope and perseverance. Its mission extends beyond its walls, impacting the community through outreach programs focused on social issues, after-school tutoring, and summer camps. They are currently planning to rebuild the Uptown location as a Family Life Center and create a parent and child center in New Orleans East. Greater Saint Stephen’s story is one of faith, resilience, and community. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, hope can prevail, and community can rebuild.