Pastor Sams’ unwavering belief echoes through the years “Everybody needs to know who Jesus is”. That belief fueled the creation of New Evangelical Bible Church a testament to faith and community. Right here before you stands a building a legacy. It began humbly in 1965. A small Bible study group met in the basement of Brother and Sister J D Green’s home on 1535 S Kostner. About 10 to 15 students from various religious backgrounds gathered. They were taught by Rev J H Konelson. Brother Willie J Sams chaired these meetings.
Two years later in 1967 Willie J Sams felt God’s call. He preached his first sermon using Romans 1:16 as his text. The following year 1968 he was ordained. On July 15 1968 he established New Evangelical Bible Church House of Prayer. It remained in that basement. Brother Leroy Yates of West Lawn Bible Church helped organize this event. The congregation grew quickly fueled by Pastor Sams’ dedication and the faithful support of his members.
Their initial space proved too small. In March 1970 they moved to 4636 W Washington Blvd. A new sign went up proclaiming New Evangelical Bible Church Willie J Sams Pastor. The church flourished under his leadership. Numerous auxiliaries and community outreach programs were established. The growing congregation spurred another expansion. Pastor Sams along with many devoted members constructed a new sanctuary and classrooms.
The year 2000 marked a significant milestone. The mortgage on New Evangelical Bible Church was burned. This symbolized a new vision. Pastor Sams dreamed of a Community and Outreach Center. This would prepare people for local and global outreach. He diligently pursued this vision. Plans were drawn up approved by the congregation and relevant authorities. The project commenced.
Today New Evangelical Bible Church continues to thrive at 4636 W Washington Blvd. Pastor Sams remains at its helm. He’s eternally grateful for the church’s accomplishments. His dedication to sharing the Gospel continues unabated. New Evangelical Bible Church stands as a powerful symbol of faith perseverance and the transformative power of community. It’s a place where the spirit of Pastor Sams’ belief still rings strong.