Founded in 1893 the Greater Morning Star Baptist Church has a rich history. It began as Morning Star Baptist Church. Several Christians formed the corporation to worship. Their first leaders were Reverend Washington M Taylor Pastor and President. Brother George Variste was Vice-President. Brother Esau Brandon served as Secretary. Brother Anthony Wilson was Treasurer. The church also had a Board of Deacons and Deaconesses. Reverend Taylor along with the Board was concerned with the members’ religious and moral welfare. They also wanted to ensure religious moral and academic teaching for the children. This foresight led to the founding of the Morning Star Baptist Church School of East Baton Rouge.
Sadly Reverend Taylor passed away in 1931. Reverend Louis Severan became the second Pastor. Under his leadership the church’s first Usher Board was organized in 1939. Reverend Severan passed away in 1947. Reverend Albert Parker became the third Pastor. He oversaw the organization of the first Church Choir. He served for ten years before resigning due to ill health. Reverend David Brandon served as interim Pastor.
Reverend Wilbert Jackson became the fourth Pastor in 1957. He appointed the Board of Deacons and Deaconesses. During his tenure Pastor’s Aid was organized by Sister Virginia Carter. Home Mission was started by First Lady Josie Jackson. In 1977 the church changed its name to Greater Morning Star Baptist Church. After twenty-six years of service Reverend Jackson became Pastor Emeritus. He passed away in 1984. Reverend Charles L Burris Sr became Acting Pastor.
Reverend Dr Charles Lee Burris Sr was elected Pastor in 1984. He served faithfully for 25 years. During his time the church envisioned a new and larger sanctuary. A new building was constructed. The first service in the new facility was held on August 13 2006. Reverend Burris passed away in 2009. Reverend Charles Lee Burris Jr became the sixth Pastor in 2010. He continued the church’s important work. The Greater Morning Star Baptist Church continues its legacy of faith and service.