Here it stands New Saint John Missionary Baptist Church Number 2. Its history is deeply rooted in faith and community. This church’s story began far away in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It started in 1919 at the Benevolent Hall on Peach Street. Reverend Octave Michell of Addis, Louisiana, led this early congregation.
The initial group consisted of fifty-nine people. They were previously members of the Macedonia Baptist Church. The land where New Saint John Missionary Baptist Church Number 2 now stands was bought by its members. They used $1,500 received from Macedonia Baptist Church.
Reverend Octave Mitchell was officially elected pastor on October 31, 1921. That same year fifty-four members started building a concrete block church. It cost $9,600. Funds ran out before construction was complete. Brothers Isom Smith and Sister Janie Spears stepped in. They mortgaged their homes to secure more money. Isom was Chairman of the Deacon Board. Janie was Chairman of the Deaconess Board.
All debts were paid by November 6, 1921. The church was dedicated to God. The Fourth District Missionary Baptist Sunday School and Baptist Training Union Association began here. Early church officers included many dedicated individuals. Brothers Isom Smith and Ike Cage were among them. Sisters Janie Peterson and Malou Cage also served.
Reverend E.D. Billoups became pastor in August 1928. Under his leadership church membership grew. In 1930 the church building was remodeled. Twenty feet were added. A study was built for the pastor. This cost over $5,000.
Reverend Billoups noticed major defects in the walls. He encouraged the members to build another building. After years of fundraising construction began in 1950. The present two-story brick building was completed in October 1951. It was dedicated to God. The church was free of all debts by April 1954.
In 1959 four lots southeast of the church were purchased. This provided parking facilities. The cost was $20,000. Construction of the Billoups Educational Building began in May 1960. This brick structure provided classrooms and office space. An additional story was added later. This created space for recreational activities and meetings.
Reverend W. Marshall Myles became pastor on March 7, 1982. Renovations and redecorating were done under his leadership. An elevator was added. More office space and a commercial kitchen were included.
New Saint John Missionary Baptist Church was composed of many ministries. These included the Deacon Board and Deaconess Board. There were also Usher Boards and several choirs. The Missionary Circle and Prayer Band were active. The Trustee Board and Brotherhood were important. Other groups included the Flower Committee and Sunday School.
Over the years the number of organizations increased. New ones included the Department of Christian Education and the Cultural Development Support Guild. There were also Boy Scouts and a Scholarship Fund. Other additions were the Youth Department and New St. John Boy’s Academy.
The church has supported various organizations. These include The Baptist World Alliance and The National Council of Churches. It has also supported The National Baptist Convention U.S.A. Inc. and the American Baptist Theological Seminary.
Pastors who have led New St. John Missionary Baptist Church include Rev. Octave Mitchell and Rev. Dr. E. Doyle Billoups. Rev. Dr. Leo E. Billoups also served. Rev. Dr. W. Marshall Myles is the current pastor. He has served since 1982. New Saint John Missionary Baptist Church Number 2 continues to be a pillar of faith. Its history reflects dedication and community spirit.