“Equipping the Saints” is more than just a motto here at New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church. It is a calling. The church’s story began on July 26 1958. It started with a vision and a small group of believers.
New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church was organized to create a spiritual home. Rev. W.M. Bowie Jr. from True Light Missionary Baptist Church oversaw the process. He was assisted by Revs. Earnest Hogan, R.F. Green and F.N. Houston. Bro. E.R. Brew suggested the name “New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church”. The recommendation was accepted. Rev. W.J. Profit was called as Pastor. The church was incorporated in 1997. It then became “New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, Inc.” on Bonazzi Street.
In the early days Pastor W. J. Profit and Sis. Dorothy Profit opened their home. Worship services were held in their garage. Ten members joined that first night. The church quickly grew.
By 1961 the congregation had purchased an acre of land. They paid it off in just two years. God touched the hearts of Klein I.S.D. school board members. New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church was allowed to worship in Garden City Elementary School. Phase 1 of the current building was completed in 1964. It was dedicated to God.
Two more acres were purchased in 1973. The goal was to build a multi-purpose building. Phase two began in 1974. A library, ladies’ lounge and two new offices were added. These offices were for the Pastor and secretary. In 1984-1985 the east and west wings were constructed.
Over 52 years New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church grew. About 490 people became members. Rev. and Sis. T. E. Harper remained faithful throughout. Founder and Pastor W.J. Profit passed away in January 2005. The church faced challenges without its leader.
But God provided. In January 2006 Rev. De’Von Delonte Jackson became pastor. He committed to equipping the saints. He wanted to evangelize the world. Above all he was glorifying the Savior.
In 2006 the church parking lot was repaved. A new computer system was purchased. The sound system was upgraded. These improvements came from God’s blessings and the people’s generosity. The interior was painted in 2007. Church offices were secured. Reserved parking spots were created. These were for Sis. L. J. Profit, guest ministers and Pastor Jackson.
Hurricane Ike tested the church’s foundation in 2008. Despite the devastation the church maintained its strength. New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church proved to be a “church built upon a rock”.
In 2009 a new sign was placed on the property. The pulpit, choir stand and baptistery were remodeled. The sound room was relocated and reconstructed. Sixteen chandeliers and twenty chairs were purchased for the choir stand. The church launched its first website. Ministry efforts appeared on YouTube.
Today New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church continues its mission. It strives to be an instrument of Jesus Christ’s power and love. The church welcomes all to join in worship, prayer and fellowship. It spreads the Gospel to Garden City, the surrounding communities, and the world.