Established in 1958 True Way Missionary Baptist Church has a rich history. It began as a small mission in a home. Twenty-six members formed the congregation. Sis Doretha Wilson suggested the name True Way. It was unanimously adopted.
Early services were held in a storefront at 4801 S Hoover. Reverend Henry F Dean led the church. The church experienced spiritual and numerical growth. In 1960 Reverend Dean left to pastor another church. Reverend Frank J Higgins Sr became the new pastor. His wife Laura became the First Lady.
The church flourished under Reverend Higgins. The Sunday school thrived. New members joined and served in various ministries. In 1962 the church moved to a larger building at 8401 S San Pedro Street. Financial difficulties led to another move in 1966. The church relocated to its current location at 9122 S San Pedro Street.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s True Way experienced many milestones. A new edifice was built. A fellowship hall was constructed. The church expanded its outreach. It added new members. A scholarship committee was formed. A dining hall and classrooms were added.
In the 1980s True Way established an emergency shelter and a food kitchen. Hundreds of meals were served weekly. Homeless people were sheltered. In the 1990s an annex was added to shelter more homeless people. A Christian Family Preservation Network was established.
Reverend Frank J Higgins Sr passed away in 1996. His son Reverend Phillip Emmanuel Higgins became the third pastor. He initiated new ministries. He led renovations and improvements to the church building. After he left the church faced a period without a pastor. Some members left. Others persevered.
In 2005 Reverend Donald L Wilson became the fourth pastor. He added new members and ministries. He implemented a job training program called Boot Camp. He served until 2015. Reverend Les Higgins Sr and his family began assisting the church. They became its new pastor in 2020.
True Way Missionary Baptist Church continues to serve its community. It offers spiritual guidance and support. It provides shelter and food. It shows the enduring faith of its members. It is a testament to the power of community and the unwavering spirit of its congregation. The church stands as a beacon of hope in South Los Angeles.