“Organized in 1922” sounds like the start of a captivating story. Peoples Baptist Church began with a small group in Sister Alice Coleman’s home. They shared a love for God and people. These saints wanted to build a church on that love. Reverend A.A. Banks became the first pastor. He set the aims and doctrines for Peoples Baptist Church. The first worship site was bought at St. Louis and Jeffries Street. This marked a new chapter. Trials and setbacks followed but a permanent church was established.
Many pastors have guided Peoples Baptist Church over the years. These include A. A. Banks T.H. Banks and Rev. Reese. Others were A.L. King C.A. Hinton and L. Collins. J.S. Sutton Sr. and D.C. Mitchell also served. In 1942 Rev. I.H. Lyons was called as pastor. During his time in 1952 the present location at 3119 Pine St. was purchased. He served until 1957.
Rev. Dr. S.M. Wright Sr. became the pastor in April 1957. He reorganized the church in 1959. It was then renamed Peoples Missionary Baptist Church. The church started focusing on community outreach. The current church building was finished in 1962. Wright Sr. greatly impacted Dallas Texas and the nation until his death in 1994.
Wright Sr.’s preaching was well-known. His civic leadership is still remembered. He held many important positions. He was president of the National Missionary Baptist Convention of America. He also led the Missionary Baptist General Convention of Texas. Additionally Wright Sr. was president of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Dallas. He also moderated the Fellowship District Association. In 1995 Highway 175/310 was named the S.M. Wright Freeway. He was among the first African Americans in Dallas honored this way.
In 1993 Rev. S.M. Wright II became the pastor. He was only 18 years old. His brother Rev. C. W.M. Wright became co-pastor at age 17. Together they expanded the church’s ministry. They focused on community outreach. They also addressed civic issues to improve lives.
In 2015 Wright II launched a program to renovate the church. These campaigns successfully improved the church. The renovated Peoples Missionary Baptist Church was celebrated in March 2016. The church continues to help thousands of families each month. They provide food and clothing services.
Peoples Baptist Church believes in God Jesus and the Holy Spirit. They believe the Bible is divinely inspired. They also believe that man was created in God’s image. The church emphasizes salvation through Jesus. They affirm the eternal security of believers. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are important ordinances.
The mission of Peoples Baptist Church is clear. They glorify God. They fulfill the Great Commission through love and service. Peoples Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith community and enduring legacy.