Lyons Unity Missionary Baptist Church

In 1964, a dream took root in the homes of faithful individuals, notably Brother and Sister Jack Perkins. They gathered at 2920 Clementine Street, laying the foundation for what would become Lyons Unity Missionary Baptist Church. The church’s name, a testament to unity and location, was proposed by Sister Willie B. Hamilton and Brother Frank Wallace. Their chosen motto, Isaiah 40:31, resonated with their aspirations. Lyons Unity Missionary Baptist Church officially began with 251 charter members at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, under the guidance of Reverend L.H. Simpson. On March 1, 1964, the congregation embarked on a symbolic march from a fire station on Gregg Street to their first home at 3301 Lyons Avenue. This renovated building served as a temporary sanctuary until their new edifice was completed. Reverends Charles M. Oliver and Horace Anderson led services until their first official pastor was appointed. Reverend Oliver Carlton Johnson, Sr. became the first pastor of Lyons Unity Missionary Baptist Church on July 5, 1964. He arrived with his wife, Faye, and their children. The church family grew with the birth of another son, Chris. The vision for a permanent home for Lyons Unity Missionary Baptist Church materialized in September 1964, when plans for a new church building began. On April 17, 1966, the congregation celebrated a milestone. They marched from Gregg and New Orleans Streets into their newly constructed sanctuary. Reverend W.H. Banks delivered a powerful sermon, marking a new chapter in the church’s history. Lyons Unity Missionary Baptist Church continued to expand its reach within the community. In 1971, they acquired 1.25 acres of land for a parking lot. This acquisition included existing businesses and rental houses. Between 1972 and 1973, the church underwent renovations. These included improvements to the sanctuary and the addition of a connecting shelter between the church building and the cafeteria. Reverend O.C. Johnson, Sr. led Lyons Unity Missionary Baptist Church for 39 years, until his passing on January 21, 2003. Reverend William Jordan then shepherded the congregation from July 2003 to July 2021. Most recently, on April 23, 2022, Reverend Delwin E. Benton became the pastor of Lyons Unity Missionary Baptist Church. His wife, Richarria, and their children, Dylan and Delaney, joined him as the First Family. Under Reverend Benton’s leadership, Lyons Unity Missionary Baptist Church continues to strive for spiritual and financial growth, grounded in the principles of love, unity, and faith in God.