How about a history lesson rooted in faith? Judson Baptist Church in Carson, California, holds a special place in this community. Its story began with humble aspirations.
In the early 1950s, a small group of citizens wanted to establish a ministry. They desired to worship the Lord Jesus Christ. Minister D. S. Bennett led the group. They met in homes to fellowship. The American Baptist Los Angeles City Mission Society oversaw their efforts.
The church grew and relocated services to Towne Avenue Elementary School. An encouraging visit came from Evangelist Billy Graham. The Lord truly paved the way for Judson Baptist Church.
With guidance from LACMS, a new building was erected. It stood at 18101 South Avalon Boulevard in Carson. This became Judson’s first official home. On June 26, 1953, the church officially incorporated. It was named in honor of Adoniram Judson. He was a great missionary.
Dr. Paul Garrison became the first pastor of Judson Baptist Church. He served alongside his wife Jeannine for about four and a half years. Dr. Garrison was a graduate of Eastern Baptist Seminary. He also held degrees from Redlands University.
On December 6, 1970, Dr. James Luther Ford Jr. became the second pastor. He had trained at Moody Bible Institute. He also attended Pacific Christian College and Fuller Theological Seminary. Over twenty years, Judson Baptist Church outgrew its space.
Plans emerged to acquire a larger space. In early 1983, Avalon Village Baptist Church became available. It was formerly known as Carson First Baptist Church. Negotiations began immediately. On June 26, 1983, Judson relocated. The cornerstone was set on September 29, 1985. The new campus included a Christian Day School. Space was shared with Hispanic and Filipino Ministries.
After 27 years of service, Dr. James Ford passed away on December 24, 1996. In May 1998, Dr. Johnny V. Baylor became the third pastor of Judson Baptist Church. His preaching and teaching ministry became known worldwide.
The Judson church family grew spiritually under Dr. Baylor’s leadership. He was partnered in ministry by his wife, Dr. Sarai Baylor. The Judson family grieved on Resurrection Sunday, April 5, 2020. Pastor Johnny Verne Baylor passed away.
On April 3, 2020, while on his deathbed, Dr. Baylor laid hands on Rev. Terry Lovell Brown Sr. He bestowed upon him the Pastoral Mantle. Pastor Brown became the fourth pastor of Judson Baptist Church. Pastor Brown and his wife, Lady Karen Annette, were installed on Sunday, October 25, 2020.
After over 13 months of quarantine, Pastor Brown led the people back. They returned to the church edifices on Resurrection Sunday. The service was Spirit-filled.
Judson Baptist Church continues to thrive. It is a beacon of faith and community. Its history reflects dedication and growth. From its humble beginnings to its present-day ministries, Judson has remained steadfast. It continues to make a positive impact in Carson, California.