Pilgrim Baptist Church

Driven by faith, a small group gathered in Nyack, New York, in 1875. They established the Pilgrim Baptist Church. Their first meetings took place above a carriage shop on Burd Street. Imagine the rhythmic clopping of horses below as the congregation prayed above. Pilgrim Baptist Church was more than just a place of worship. It was a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of faith and community. The church’s mission was clear: to serve a world in need through prayer, service, and outreach. It aimed to be a family built on the principles of Jesus Christ, rooted in love. The early days of the Pilgrim Baptist Church were humble. Yet, they were filled with the unwavering spirit of its founders: Rev. Charles Mayo, Mr. and Mrs. Travis Armstead, and Mrs. Kassie Whines. In 1903, Rev. John Robinson took the helm. Under his guidance, the Pilgrim Baptist Church purchased a building at 187 Main Street in Nyack. This marked a significant step forward for the growing congregation. Progress continued under Rev. W.C. Taylor, who became pastor in 1938. The church flourished, necessitating a larger space. In 1960, Pilgrim Baptist Church found a new home on Franklin Street and High Avenue. The congregation marched into the new building, a symbol of their growth and enduring faith. Pilgrim Baptist Church continued to evolve under the leadership of Rev. O.T. Moore Jr., starting in 1980. Then, in 1990, Rev. Willie L. Hairston took the reins. He led numerous ministries and outreach programs, further solidifying the church’s role in the Nyack community. Another renovation in 2001 reflected the church’s ongoing growth and commitment to serving its community. The Pilgrim Baptist Church has journeyed from a carriage shop to a cornerstone of the Nyack community. It stands as a testament to the power of faith, the importance of community, and the enduring spirit of those who first envisioned it.