Is it possible for a church to redefine itself through acts of inclusion? The story of Park Windsor Baptist Church is one of faith. It shows resilience and transformation.
Park Windsor Baptist Church started as South Park Baptist Church in 1910. The church began in Brother John W. Cusick’s home. Reverend F. D. Finn was the interim pastor. The congregation met in homes. They bought Bibles for 49 cents each.
In 1911 Reverend C. Oscar Johnson became the pastor. Under his leadership, the church officially incorporated in 1912. Several pastors followed including Dr. G. N. Lehigh and Reverend Earle Smith.
Reverend Gordon Palmer became pastor in 1919. Ground was broken for a new church building. It was at Fifty-First Street and McKinley Avenue. The dedication was on March 22, 1920.
In 1931, South Park Baptist Church was recognized. It was honored by the American Baptist Convention. This was for its ministry in an urban community.
In 1944, the church divided its membership. The name changed to Park Windsor Baptist Church in 1945. This change marked a new chapter.
Park Windsor Baptist Church moved to 52nd Street and Crenshaw Blvd in 1946. In 1947, it moved to its current location. It is at 1842 West 108th Street.
The 1960s brought change to the area. The church remained mostly white. In 1964, Reverend Donald C. Bushfield invited Black families to worship.
The Black Pioneers joined Park Windsor Baptist Church. They included Betty Abrams and Edna Jones. Also joining were Gary and Ida Jean Smith and Dorothy Whaley. Charles and Naomi Fisher and Ozella Adams-Singleton joined too. Jane Ella Spirlin and Elaine Whaley were also among them.
Gary Smith became the first Black trustee in 1966. Ida Jean Smith was elected Church Clerk. This was another first.
In 1967, Dr. Elmer Gottschalk became pastor. A fire damaged the church that year. Members guarded the building.
Dr. Donald Robertson arrived in 1968. The church was refurbished. Ozella Adams and Scott Ellis became trustees. Maurice Ballenger and James Smith also became trustees.
In 1969, the Los Angeles Baptist City Mission Society returned the property to Park Windsor Baptist Church. The church voted to remain an American Baptist Church.
Charles H. Fisher became the first Black Chairman of the Deacon Board in 1969.
Dr. J. Raymond Henderson became the first Black minister in 1970.
Reverend Arthur H. Windsor served as pastor from 1972. After him, Reverend Joseph B. Patterson. Then Dr. J. Raymond Henderson served again as interim pastor.
In 1977, Reverend Manuel L. Scott, Jr. became pastor. Tithing was instituted. The church’s income increased. The building fund grew. Membership increased.
Dr. William Thurmond led the church from 1983 to 2010. The church edifice was remodeled. Additional classrooms were added.
In 2010, Reverend Terrell Taylor became pastor.
Today Park Windsor Baptist Church continues. It thrives as a beacon of hope. It embodies the values of inclusion. Henderson Hall honors Dr. J. Raymond Henderson. Legbandt Hall honors Sister Patricia Legbandt.
Park Windsor Baptist Church stands as a testament. It shows the power of faith, community, and transformation. It welcomes all to “Park It At the Park.” You can join in person or virtually. Services are Sundays at 8am and 11am. Bible studies are Wednesdays at 7pm. The church strives to reach, teach, and transform lives.