Have you ever wondered where a small group of Christians sparked a beacon of faith? Here at Greater St. Matthew Baptist Church in Detroit, the story began in 1945. Six spirit-led Christians gathered in Bro. George Holmes’ home. They united to organize a church which became Greater St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church.
Rev James Price became the first Pastor. Under his guidance, the church flourished. Members decided to build a worship space at the present location. Rev. Price resigned and Rev. Warren Richardson took over. He rebuilt the church. After a year, he moved on to serve elsewhere.
Rev. L.D. Harris followed Rev. Richardson. The church continued its growth under Rev. Harris’ leadership. Rev. Harris also moved on. Fire destroyed the church. Rev. A.D. Dickerson volunteered. He served briefly before moving on. The Southwest Central District Association aided in rebuilding. Rev. W.M. Sykes and Rev. F.A. Allen supervised the construction.
Rev. George Singleton pastored for two years. Rev. H.W. Howard from Mississippi served for one year. Rev. George Singleton returned for almost two years. On October 18 1959 Rev. Wilbur Johnson became the pastor. He proved to be a God-sent leader. The church was remodeled and enlarged under Rev. Johnson. A Fellowship Hall was added. Membership increased rapidly to over 200. After six years, Rev. Johnson became pastor of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Houston.
On July 27 1965 Rev. J. Carlton Allen was called as pastor. He accepted the call on August 8 1965. Under his leadership, the church gained a new vision. The mortgage was paid off. An organ was purchased. Four lots adjoining the church were acquired. After a year and six months, Rev. Allen accepted a position in San Antonio, Texas.
On April 23 1967 Rev. T.H. Giles became pastor. During his time, new members joined. The church grew spiritually and financially. Rev. Giles provided strong leadership. On April 24 1983 Rev. Giles resigned due to failing health. In 1984 Rev. E.H. Dobbins was called as pastor.
Pastor Dobbins believed in possibilities. He emphasized faith and goals. Under Rev. Dobbins’ leadership, the church grew. Many new members joined. The church purchased a P.A. system, choir robes, and a copier. A church van and garage were added. Blinds and furniture were donated for the pastor’s study.
Pastor Dobbins started a mid-week service with meals for the hungry. He also created a Brotherhood Ministry that met early Sunday mornings. Rev. Nat Davis assisted him. Rev. Thaddeus Brown, his son, also served in the ministry. Rev. Dobbins envisioned an overflowing church. His vision became a reality. Rev. Dobbins served until his death on May 11 1990.
In July 1990 Rev. William L. Randall Jr. became pastor. His first sermon was “Together we Stand Divided we Fall”. Pastor Randall promised spiritual, financial and physical growth. Since August 1990 many ministries have been inspired. A new church building was erected in 1995. The mortgage was paid off in November 2002. In January 2003 Pastor Randall launched the King Solomon Phase II campaign. In July 2005 the church purchased approximately 2 acres of land. In November 2008 Greater St. Matthews members entered a new house of Worship. Souls were saved through Pastor Randall’s teachings. Pastor Randall believes in strong families for strong churches.
Greater St. Matthew Baptist Church continues its mission today. It focuses on fellowshipping, equipping and evangelizing. The church extends God’s hand to impact society. Its aim is to make disciples for Christ. The slogan is “To Build up the Saints To Bring in the Sheep To Bear fruit for the Savior”. From humble beginnings to a thriving community Greater St. Matthew Baptist Church exemplifies faith and perseverance.