“He Who Began a Good Work in Us.” That’s more than just a theme. It’s the living story of Macedonia Baptist Church.
Macedonia Baptist Church stands here in Watts Los Angeles. It has stood since 1908. It is a beacon of faith and community.
Rev. Louis Stokes founded Macedonia. It became the first Black Baptist Church in the greater Watts area. Think about that for a moment. In a time of segregation and inequality, this church was a testament. It showed the strength and resilience of the African American community.
Since its founding, Macedonia Baptist Church has had only eight pastors. Each one has left their mark on this sacred place. Rev. S. O. J. Evans led from 1951 to 1965. Dr. Floyd Massey Jr. followed from 1965 to 1988. Dr. Aidsand F. Wright-Riggins served from 1988 to 1991. Rev. Robert L. Mason guided the church from 1992 to 2010. Since 2011, Rev. Shane B. Scott has been the spiritual leader.
Macedonia celebrated its 111th anniversary. It was a joyous occasion. Members reflected on the past. They anticipated the future. Pastor Scott reminded everyone that God had been good to them.
Macedonia Baptist Church is more than just a building. It’s a family. It is committed to making disciples. These disciples are dedicated to living a life modeled by Christ. The church inspires spiritual maturity. It encourages members to grow into the likeness of Jesus.
The church is also committed to impacting the world for Christ. It truly is “The Ministry That Changes Lives”.
In 2003, members organized a “Grand Centennial Celebration”. A research committee discovered an original deed. It showed the purchase of land on West Henry Street in 1894. While chartered in 1904, Macedonia was actually organized ten years prior. This discovery highlights the faith, hope, and determination of its members.
Deacon James T. Templeton offered a factual recollection of Macedonia. Deacon Lewis C. Davis documented this invaluable data.
Macedonia Baptist Church separated from Mt. Moriah Baptist Church. This occurred on June 20, 1904. The first pastor was Reverend W.M. Evans. He served from 1904 to 1905. Services were first held at South Liberty and East Valley Streets.
In July 1904, the congregation moved to a temporary site. They worshipped upstairs over the Wright Scruggs Shoe Store. Later, they purchased a lot on Exchange Street. They built a slat building. Macedonia remained there from 1904 to 1914.
In 1914, Reverend E.W. Bowen became pastor. Under his leadership, membership increased significantly. The church was rebuilt. It became a wood structure facing West Henry Street. Reverend Bowen served faithfully until 1920.
Reverend R.S. Sims became pastor in 1920. In 1921, he led the congregation in improving the church’s structure. Untrained but skilled workers constructed a new building around the old one. This work was an expression of unity among the members. Reverend Sims served until 1929.
Historically, Macedonia has been held together by faith, hope, and a firm belief in God. When Reverend A.M. Means became pastor in 1929, the church made internal improvements. A new furnace with radiators replaced the old stoves.
Reverend W.L. Wilson led the church for 46 years, starting in 1942. Macedonia paid off past debts. They installed new pews and a baptistery. They purchased a Hammond organ.
Under Reverend Jones’s leadership, many additions were made. These included new systems and equipment. The grounds were landscaped. Women were included on the Trustee Board.
In October 1998, the congregation elected Reverend Oscar R. Cleveland as pastor. He planned renovations and a family life center. Additional land was purchased.
Macedonia has an active after school ministry. It also has a Soup Kitchen.
Reverend Dr. M. Keith McDaniel became pastor in February 2010.
Macedonia Baptist Church stands as a testament. It embodies faith, resilience, and community. Its story is a reminder of the power of belief. It is a beacon of hope in the heart of Watts.