Saint Stephens Baptist Church

A beacon of faith in Temple Hills, Maryland, the Saint Stephens Baptist Church has a history as rich and inspiring as its congregation. Saint Stephens Baptist Church wasn’t always located here. Its journey began in 1944 in Washington D.C., as a small mission led by Reverend Chester L. Smallwood. They initially gathered in a humble house on Q Street. As the congregation expanded, so did their need for space. They relocated to New York Avenue, officially becoming Saint Stephens Baptist Church under Reverend James G. Ford. The church continued to thrive, leading to another move in 1954 to M Street. There, under Pastor Ford’s dedicated leadership, Saint Stephens Baptist Church flourished for thirty-five years. Over the decades, Saint Stephens Baptist Church saw a succession of devoted pastors. Each leader contributed to the church’s spiritual growth and community impact. The church’s current pastor, Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr., began his leadership in 1997. He initiated the “Mountaintop Experience,” a radio broadcast spreading the church’s message further. By 2003, Saint Stephens Baptist Church needed yet another expansion. The congregation moved to its current location in Temple Hills, Maryland, marking a significant milestone in its journey. Under Bishop Twyman’s guidance, Saint Stephens Baptist Church continued to grow. It expanded its ministries to over 50, ordained ministers, and established a satellite ministry, reaching out to the wider community. Even during the challenging times of the pandemic, the church remained a steadfast beacon of hope, adapting to provide virtual services and continuing its community outreach, even distributing free food every Tuesday. Saint Stephens Baptist Church has undergone significant renovations, demonstrating a commitment to both its history and future. From its humble beginnings on Q Street to its current location, Saint Stephens Baptist Church stands as a testament to the power of faith and community.