Step into the shoes of those who first walked these streets. Picture the year 1893. A group of determined souls left Briner Christian Church. They yearned for their own space. A place to baptize in their own pool. This was the genesis of Lovely Hill Baptist Church. Not in the bustling city of New York as you know it today but in Holly Hill. These pioneers Riley Simmons Pumpy Simmons and Reverend John Wright Sr led the charge. They weren’t content with the status quo. Their faith fueled their ambition.
Lovely Hill Baptist Church began humbly. Reverend Wright built the first church on his own property. They named it Bright Start Christian Faith Church. Later it became Disciples of Christ. Still seeking more the group continued its efforts. Eventually they met under a grape arbor on Railroad Avenue. This wasn’t an ideal sanctuary. But their dedication was unwavering. Their faith never faltered.
In 1924 Reverend Joseph Mainard donated land. The first church building rose on that site. It officially became Lovely Hill Missionary Baptist Church. Reverend John W Wright Sr served as its inaugural pastor. The church thrived under his leadership. Mr L L Rush Reverend Luther H Wright Sr and Reverend Frank Cain Sr were among its dedicated members.
Through the decades Lovely Hill Baptist Church grew. Many pastors guided its journey. Reverend Morris Wright Sr Reverend Kerse and Reverend D S Wells each left their mark. Reverend Wells notably established the first junior choir. Reverend J W Collins Reverend Eddie Davis and Reverend H W Hooks further shaped the congregation. Reverend Hooks also founded Hook Zion Baptist Church now Hill Zion Missionary Baptist Church.
The church’s story took another turn. Reverend C J Adams and Reverend Rhodes provided guidance. Then Reverend J A Curry became pastor from 1961-1962. Under his tenure the current church building was constructed. The building committee including Reverend Paul Haynes Mrs E P Keith Mrs Matilda Montgomery and several deacons worked tirelessly. Their combined efforts bore fruit. A testament to their collective faith.
Reverend Stroy served as pastor from 1962 to 1965. Then Reverend A C Wright Jr took the reins. His 35-year leadership witnessed significant growth. An educational building was added including a library nursery classrooms and a kitchen with a dining area. He passed away in 2000 but his legacy lives on.
Reverend F D Hunt the assistant pastor who served under Reverend Wright became interim pastor. He was elected pastor in 2001. He served for five years before further his education. His contribution included a Children’s Church Ministry a Summer Enrichment Program and a Youth Drill Team.
Reverend W J Frierson became pastor in 2006. He and his wife joined the Lovely Hill Baptist Church family in 2011. A major construction project added a kitchen and dining area. The 7000 square foot multipurpose building completed in 2013 included a 5000 square foot dining area a kitchen restrooms and a media loft. This building serves as a community center and a shelter.
From humble beginnings under a grape arbor to a modern facility Lovely Hill Baptist Church stands as a beacon of faith. A testament to perseverance dedication and the enduring power of community. This church is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a living testament to faith resilience and the enduring spirit of its people.