“What if we made this our house?” A question asked that resonates unexpectedly with the story of St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church. However, let’s delve into the real story of St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church.
St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church stands as a beacon of faith in its community. It has a rich history that spans over 150 years. The church continues to serve and uplift its members.
In 1947, Dr. C.D. Pettaway became the leader. He was an influential religious figure. He even served as president of the National Baptist Convention of America. This was from 1957 to 1967.
Under Dr. Pettaway’s guidance, St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church experienced growth. The need for a baptistry prompted a significant decision. The existing foundation couldn’t support it. In 1950, the church decided to construct an entirely new building.
A building campaign was launched. On March 6, 1965, they broke ground for a new sanctuary. This finished product is now the Chapel. Its unique architectural design is one of only five of its kind worldwide. Dr. Pettaway served as pastor for 22 years. He passed away on August 20, 1968.
Rev. William J. Ross envisioned an enlarged choir loft. He also wanted to add an educational wing. Rev. Arnette Dotson brought these visions to life. Today, the church’s education annex is named in Rev. Ross’s honor.
The ministry, staff and membership continued to grow rapidly. St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church prepared for further expansion. In 2006, they purchased thirty-four acres of land. A groundbreaking ceremony for a 40000 square-foot worship facility was held on April 1, 2007. The first service in the current edifice took place on November 22, 2008.
Today, St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church remains a light in the community where it was founded. Its congregation is multi-generational. It includes members from infancy to their late 80s. The church prays that God will continue to bless its ministry as they make disciples. This is a testament to the enduring legacy of St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church.