Here at Progressive Missionary Baptist Church, a story of faith and community unfolds. Let me share its journey with you.
Progressive Missionary Baptist Church started with a simple desire. A couple wanted to worship within their own community. Richard and Eddie M. Hollins held the first meeting in their home. It was November 29, 1946.
The couple planned to raise funds. They wanted to purchase land. Reverend A. R. Thomas and Reverend L. H. Newsome assisted them. Others joined their cause. They purchased several lots. These lots stretched from 2323 Powers Avenue to Woodrow Wilson Avenue. A building was erected. The doors of Progressive Missionary Baptist Church opened on April 22, 1947. Reverend L. H. Newsome became the first pastor.
As membership grew, so did the church activities. Auxiliaries formed. Special events took place. The 1st Women’s Day service was held. There was an ongoing radio broadcast on Sunday evenings. Progressive Missionary Baptist Church faced difficulties. The building burned. But the church was not defeated. They restructured the sanctuary. A fellowship hall was added. This allowed the ministry to expand its service to the community.
Leadership transitioned over the years. Reverend A. L. Barnes became pastor in 1968. He left in 1970 to start his own ministry. Pastor O. B. Burgess then led the congregation. He was known as a meek and humble man. He deeply appreciated the Gospel. Pastor Burgess resigned in 1971. Reverend C. S. Anthony was then elected as pastor of Progressive Missionary Baptist Church. God continued to add to the church. Reverend M. B. Buckley taught a weekly Bible Class. Pastor Anthony served until his health failed.
In 1987, Reverend C. E. Stanton became pastor. He implemented several ministries. These included Church Orientation and Evangelism Ministry. Reverend Stanton organized the Church By-Laws. He started the 1st Annual Church Picnic. He also organized the 1st Youth Trip. He obtained land behind the church. Three Deacons were ordained. The church membership continued to grow.
Reverend J. F. Johnson became pastor in May 1994. During his leadership, the first Sunday School Seminar was held. They also had a Christian Education Leadership School. Progressive Missionary Baptist Church continues to participate in these. Under Reverend Johnson’s leadership, 126 members joined the church. Thirty-two were baptized. Bible Class was implemented every 1st and 3rd Sunday.
Pastor Johnson helped people in need. When the bombing in Oklahoma City occurred, he suggested the church send a donation. The donation would aid the families. The building underwent renovations. The L. H. Newsome Fellowship Hall was renamed and dedicated. The church motto became “Let Love Abide” based on John 13:35. This motto continues today. It continues even after his resignation in 1998.
Progressive Missionary Baptist Church focuses on celebrating, evangelizing, teaching, and preaching. They want the conversion of souls for Christ. The church continues to hold regularly scheduled meetings.
The Progressive Missionary Baptist Church stands as a testament. It shows commitment to God, family, and community. Its history reflects resilience and growth through faith. The church has total assets of $671,120. Total liabilities amount to $187,528. This information is from the fiscal year ending December 2023.