Drawn together by a shared desire to continue the life of Christ, St. Matthew Baptist Church began in 1929. It started in the yard of Sister Rosie Breaux. Leaders organized St. Matthew Baptist Church at 119 Fidelity Street in Houston. The community name itself carries a moral meaning. Fidelity means loyalty, truthfulness, and faithfulness.
In 1929, Reverend M. E. Roberson led the church. In 1931, Reverend E. S. Branch became the pastor. Several ministers followed including Reverend O. B. Brent and Reverend S. P. Baker.
Reverend T. J. Anderson became the pastor on April 11, 1945. In 1949, a new church building was constructed under his guidance. Sister Annie Richmond sponsored the first building fund. Deacon Eddie T. Jones provided the design. Reverend Anderson resigned in May 1955.
Reverend Cecil M. Davis Sr. was called to pastor St. Matthew Baptist Church in July 1955. Under his leadership, a new edifice was built. On April 26, 1970, the congregation marched to their new church. They sang “We’ve Come This Far By Faith”. The old church became a Fellowship Hall. The mortgage was paid off on April 26, 1979, marking the church’s 50th anniversary. Reverend Davis retired in 1991 after 36 years of service.
In September 1992, Reverend Leroy Lacy Jr. became the pastor. He is described as dynamic and spirit-filled. Many ministries and programs were initiated under his leadership. These include New Member Orientation classes and the Kingdom Builder Educational Ministry. A Children’s Church, Nursery, Bread of Life Food Pantry, and Media Ministry were also established. The Sr. Saints Ministry was also created. Membership grew under Pastor Lacy’s leadership. His sermons are described as real and powerful. People say the Holy Spirit often visits St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church.
St. Matthew Baptist Church purchased surrounding areas and expanded the parking lots. Microphones and a recording system were installed. The Sanctuary was renovated. A security system with voice boxes was added. In January 1999, Pastor Leroy Lacy Jr. became the church’s first full-time pastor. He hired a full-time Office Administrator. He improved the financial accounting system and established operational budgets.
In January 2003, the building needed a complete renovation. The congregation could not worship in their church from January to July 2003. The edifice was remodeled with many updates and improvements.
In March 2007, Pastor Lacy’s vision of a Family Life Center became a reality. The 5,000 square foot Leroy Lacy Jr. Family Life Center was completed in November 2008. It includes a multipurpose room and five classrooms. On December 14, 2008, the classrooms were dedicated. They were named in honor of Trailblazers who left lasting impressions. The multipurpose room is named The Rev. Cecil M. Davis Sr. Multi-purpose room. Classrooms honor Dea. Woodie Hill and Dea. J. T. McKnight. They also honor Dea. Emerick Jacobs, Bro. Ellis Clark, and Bro. Elton Cosby Jr.
Since its beginnings, St. Matthew Baptist Church has faced storms and challenges. Today, the church gives thanks to God. It recognizes all the good things He has done. St. Matthew Baptist Church continues to be a beacon of faith.