“What began with a desire to worship” is a perfect way to describe the Progressive Missionary Baptist Church. Imagine Richard and Eddie M. Hollins wanting to worship within their community. The Progressive Missionary Baptist Church’s history shows commitment. It shows commitment to God, family, and the community.
The first meeting of Progressive Missionary Baptist Church happened in their home. It was November 29, 1946. The couple planned to raise funds. They also planned to purchase land. Reverend A. R. Thomas and Reverend L. H. Newsome assisted. Several others helped too. After buying lots from 2323 Powers Avenue to Woodrow Wilson Avenue, they built a building. The doors of Progressive Missionary Baptist Church opened on April 22, 1947. Reverend L. H. Newsome was the Pastor.
As membership grew, auxiliaries and events took place. The 1st Women’s Day service took place. An ongoing radio broadcast happened on Sunday evenings. Progressive Missionary Baptist Church overcame difficulties. The building burned. This led to restructuring the sanctuary. It also led to adding a fellowship hall. This allowed the ministry to expand its service. It expanded its commitment to the community.
Growth happened in membership. It also happened in leadership transition. Reverend A. L. Barnes became pastor in 1968. He left in 1970 to start his own ministry. Pastor O. B. Burgess led the congregation. He was meek and humble. He deeply appreciated the Gospel. Pastor Burgess resigned in 1971. Reverend C. S. Anthony was elected as Pastor. God added to the church. Reverend M. B. Buckley taught a weekly Bible Class. Pastor Anthony served at Progressive. His health began to fail and weaken him.
In 1987, Reverend C. E. Stanton became Pastor. He implemented ministries. He started the Church Orientation and Evangelism Ministry. Reverend Stanton organized the Church By-Laws. He started the 1st Annual Church Picnic. He planned the 1st Youth Trip. He obtained land behind the church. He ordained 3 Deacons. Church membership kept growing.
The church transitioned again. Reverend J. F. Johnson became Pastor in May 1994. The first Sunday School Seminar happened. The Christian Education Leadership School began. Progressive still participates in this. Under Reverend Johnson’s leadership, 126 members joined. 32 people were baptized. Bible Class happened every 1st and 3rd Sunday.
Pastor Johnson helped people in need. When the Oklahoma City bombing happened, he suggested a donation. The Church sent money to help the families. The building was renovated. The L. H. Newsome Fellowship Hall was renamed and dedicated. The church motto became “Let Love Abide”. This comes from John 13:35. They continue this motto. This is even after his resignation in 1998.
The Progressive Missionary Baptist Church stands as a beacon. It shines with a history of faith. It demonstrates community and unwavering love. It began with a simple desire to worship. It evolved into a place of refuge and strength.