Remember the merger. The Livingston Avenue Baptist Church stands as a testament to unity. It rose from the joining of two congregations. Let’s explore its story.
The church’s history began in 1995. Palms Baptist Church and Livingston Avenue Baptist Church merged. Palms lacked a location. Livingston needed leadership. Together, they formed a diverse congregation. It was racially and economically mixed. They agreed to disband their existing churches. They renamed it New Tampa Baptist Church. The name reflected the rapidly growing area.
Imagine the early days. New Palms congregation met in Pastor Springfield’s living room. It started in 1990. Soon, it outgrew the space. The merger provided a solution for both churches.
The building wasn’t perfect. There wasn’t enough room for everyone. Workers knocked down classroom walls. Mismatched furniture filled the sanctuary. Hard white benches mixed with cushioned ones. Members didn’t mind. Their love for each other was more important.
William Borden likened the church to Noah’s Ark. People came from all walks of life. They came from affluent areas. Some came from high-crime areas. The church welcomed everyone.
Pastor James Springfield emphasized equality. He said there is no difference between people. The congregation embraced this belief. They didn’t see differences among themselves.
Geoffrey Okogbaa and his wife Elizabeth Yakubo sought spiritual guidance. They didn’t want business contacts. They found a strong foundation for their children. The church accommodated all kinds of people. It wasn’t about promoting yourself. It was about worshipping God.
The church had a homelike atmosphere. Members greeted each other warmly. They hugged and patted each other. Devorrick Day, a young member, loved this part of the service.
Alma Santa Cruz, the youth director, brought a carload of kids every Sunday. Some came with uncombed hair. Some wore shorts. They were accepted anyway.
Acceptance extended to adults. Some members gave a lot. Others gave little. It didn’t matter. Everyone was loved the same.
The church is active in the Tampa Bay Baptist Association. It supports worldwide missions. The church sits on 12 acres. The park-like setting is open to the public.
New Tampa Baptist Church offers various programs. There are Bible studies. There is a women’s ministry. A choir sings. A puppet team performs.
The church continues to serve its community. It provides a place of worship. It offers a sense of belonging. It stands as a symbol of unity. The Livingston Avenue Baptist Church’s legacy lives on.