Takoma Park Baptist Church

A small Sunday school class in 1919. That’s how the story of Takoma Park Baptist Church begins. Imagine a group gathered in the Takoma Park community, learning and growing together. With the support of the Columbia Association of Baptist Churches and Petworth Baptist Church, this class, known as the Pearce Class, laid the foundation for what would become a cornerstone of the community. Takoma Park Baptist Church officially organized just a few months later, in June 1919. The church quickly gained recognition, becoming a member of the Columbia Association in November of the same year. The following year, in 1920, Takoma Park Baptist Church was officially incorporated. Their first pastor, Reverend William E. LaRue, joined them in 1921. Until their own building was ready, the congregation worshipped at the Takoma Park Seventh-day Adventist Church. Finally, in 1924, the Takoma Park Baptist Church building opened its doors. A week-long dedication ceremony celebrated this milestone. Takoma Park Baptist Church continued to thrive under Reverend LaRue’s leadership for an impressive 24 years. By the time he left in 1945, the church boasted a membership of 620 people. The church’s growth is a testament to his dedication. After Reverend LaRue’s departure, Reverend A.R. Pixley served as interim pastor until Reverend Herbert W. Baucom Jr. took the helm in 1946. During his tenure, the church launched its monthly publication, “Outlook,” in 1946, and dedicated a new education building in 1953. Reverend William L. Scurlock became pastor in 1955, serving until 1965. A noteworthy addition during his time was the installation of a “prayer phone” in 1960. Following him, Dr. Paul G. Gillespie became pastor in 1965. His time at Takoma Park Baptist Church included a mortgage burning ceremony in 1968 and the dedication of the church’s Moller pipe organ in 1972. Dr. Gillespie’s leadership continued until 1977. Reverend Clinton Helton then led the congregation from 1977 to 1984. After Reverend Helton, Dr. Henry Osgood served two terms as interim pastor. He worked alongside a team of associate and assistant ministers until Dr. Joseph M. Smith became pastor in 1986. During Dr. Smith’s tenure, three staff assistants, Reverends Luke E. Torian, Adrian T. Arnold, and Shelby M. Haggray, supported the church. They were joined by seven part-time and interim ministers. Reverend La Verne A. Wilson also played a crucial role, first as assistant pastor from 2001 to 2004 and then as Acting Senior Pastor until 2006. Reverend Dr. Ernest Trice Sr. became the seventh pastor of Takoma Park Baptist Church in 2006. Since his arrival, he has focused on fulfilling the Great Commission and strengthening the church’s ministries. Under his guidance, the church revised its mission, vision, and core values in 2007. This ensured the church’s continued relevance and effectiveness in the 21st century. From its humble beginnings as a Sunday school class to its current standing, Takoma Park Baptist Church continues to be a vital part of the community’s spiritual landscape.