Step into the rich history of Israel Baptist Church. This isn’t just a building it’s a testament to faith resilience and community. Founded in 1916 by a devoted prayer band it began humbly in homes. On April 27 1918 Rev A B Fort became its first pastor. A small house on 13 Daniel Street became its first sanctuary purchased for a mere $100 down payment. Imagine the dedication of those inaugural members Sisters Nora Banks Mary Kay Gussie Gaither and Sister Anna Sumpter. Deacons William Blair David Fort Albert Mackey Lamsol Irby and Deacon Lee Hall laid the foundation of this church’s leadership.
Under Rev Fort’s guidance Israel Baptist Church joined the Building Convention Organization. This group of churches including Shady Grove Piney Grove Mt Nebo and Stardust Baptist Churches met regularly for fellowship. Funds raised during these services helped each church build its own place of worship. Rev Fort established a Sunday School a Baptist Young Peoples Union Wednesday night prayers and revivals. The church grew.
In 1925 Rev J S Walker took over. The church’s first convention was held in the home of Mr and Mrs Orange Lewis next door for a small weekly rent and a pittance for coal. Membership soared from 9 to 60 members in a few months. Twelve-year-old Sister Caroline Sumpter Williams became the church clerk a remarkable testament to her devotion. New auxiliaries like the Willing Workers Busy Bee Progressive Club and Volunteer Club were formed. Their 1926 Finance Committee Report boasted $684.62 a substantial sum for that era.
Rev Walker’s tenure ended in 1928. Rev J J Gresham took over. Brother Mead Johnson became the first chairman of the Deacon Board serving for an incredible 43 years. Tragedy struck in 1939 when Rev Gresham passed away. Rev C S Jackson led the church from 1940 to 1962. He oversaw expansion purchasing new pews and a piano. Membership grew to around 200.
In 1964 Rev William Smith became pastor. Growth continued rapidly. Then disaster struck. A fire destroyed the church at 13 Daniel Street. Services were temporarily held at the former Turner Monumental Church. But Israel Baptist Church persevered. They purchased a new facility at 110 Howard Street Northeast in 1964. Deacon Willie Lester became Deacon Board Chairman in 1972 serving until 1988. Sister Mae B Martin Bennett served as Church Clerk from 1964 to 1974. Sister Bertha B Harden became the church’s first full-time staff member in 1974 serving for 35 years.
The church continued to thrive. By 1979 they had outgrown their building again. They moved to their current location 2071 Boulevard Drive now Hosea L Williams Drive. This building formerly housed Fountain Elementary School. Its seating capacity is approximately 2500. In July 1979 the church hosted the State Sunday School and BTU Congress a significant event.
Under Rev Smith’s leadership the church expanded its ministries. The church underwent renovations after weather damage in 1988. The Chapel was renamed the William Smith Chapel. New amenities were added including an organ new carpeting air conditioning a pastor’s study cushioned seats a PA system and a paved parking lot. Sixteen auxiliaries six choirs a Department of Christian Education stewardship programs and a radio broadcast were added to the church’s activities. Services expanded to three on Sundays with additional Bible studies and prayer services.
Rev Smith launched Vision 2000 a program to win souls and reduce the church mortgage. The sanctuary was completely renovated. Deacon Waldo Bennett served as Deacon Board Chairman from 2010 until his death in 2018. Rev Smith’s extraordinary ministry spanned 55 years. He ordained over 60 ministers and 74 deacons. He pastored over 6000 members. He retired in 2018 passing away in 2020. Rev Dr William Rollerson currently serves as spiritual leader.
Israel Baptist Church is more than a building. It’s a legacy of faith resilience and community. It’s a testament to the power of prayer and perseverance. It’s a vibrant part of New Orleans’ history.