Picture this. You are standing before Metairie Baptist Church. Its history unfolds before you like an open book. The church wasn’t always the grand building you see today. It began humbly in 1957. Brother Marvin Sanders held the first services in a home. That home belonged to Mr and Mrs Paul Alverson. As the congregation grew the church moved to St Martin Episcopal School. Later services were held in East Jefferson High School’s cafeteria.
Metairie Baptist Church’s humble beginnings are a testament to its enduring faith. The church acquired land in July 1957. October of that same year brought membership into the Baptist Association of Greater New Orleans. A groundbreaking ceremony for its first sanctuary followed in January 1958. This marked a significant step in the church’s journey.
Brother George Feazall became pastor in 1962. He served for twenty-three years. The church expanded. It acquired two used army barracks. These provided space for education and children’s ministry. A two-story building was added in 1965. It included a fellowship hall kitchen and more education space.
The 1970s saw incredible growth. A promotional campaign called “Together We Build” spurred this expansion. This period saw many conversions and baptisms. Several high school students dedicated their lives to full-time Christian ministry. Many now serve in churches across the United States.
In 1981 Metairie Baptist Church partnered with a Chinese Baptist church. They shared facilities for weekly services. After fifteen years the Chinese church built its own building. That church continues to serve Metairie’s Chinese community. Also in 1981 a new children’s building was constructed. This housed a Mother’s-Day-Out program and an elementary school. The school expanded to include eighth grade by 1985.
Hurricane Katrina caused extensive damage in 2005. The church underwent two and a half years of repairs and reconstruction. The celebrations were short-lived. Hurricane Gustav damaged the roof just seven weeks after the church reopened. The congregation rebuilt again demonstrating their unwavering faith.
In 2011 First Baptist Church of New Orleans helped lead Metairie Baptist Church. Dan Pritchett served as an interim pastor. He stayed on becoming the church’s pastor in August 2011. Since then significant renovations and upgrades have taken place. The two-story education building was completely renovated. A new gymnasium and middle school facilities were also added.
The Metairie Baptist Church School is considered the church’s most successful community ministry. It has grown significantly under the leadership of Jerry Riggs. The school and church share a common goal: sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. Countless people have found faith through their combined efforts. Metairie Baptist Church stands as a beacon of faith. Its journey reflects resilience growth and a deep commitment to its community.