Remember Rev. Albert W. Ward as we gather here at Ward Memorial Baptist Church. His dedication touched people from 18 nations for over two decades. Ward Memorial Baptist Church’s story began long before this building stood here. It started with a Sunday school. Members of First Church in the East End ran it back in 1894.
That small start grew. It became Jackson Avenue Baptist Church. Later, it joined with Hastings East Baptist Church. They chose a new name. It became Ward Memorial Baptist Church to honor Reverend Ward. The church stands as a living tribute to his work.
Today, Ward Memorial Baptist Church embraces its diverse roots. People from many nations gather here. They come from all walks of life. The church offers a 10:30 a.m. worship service in English. It also hosts weekly Bible studies. Caring and prayer groups meet regularly. The Worship Team leads joyful music. The Hospitality Committee offers a warm welcome. The Building and Grounds Committee keeps everything running smoothly. The Celebration Zone engages children and youth. Connections supports youth and young adults.
But Ward Memorial Baptist Church does not stop at its own doors. It partners with G&I Shining Stars Youth Society. Together, they provide after-school tutoring. They also run youth programs throughout the week. Shining Stars Camp Can-Do offers summer classes and a camp program. This outreach builds a bridge between the church and the community.
Reflect on a passage from 1 Corinthians. It speaks of the church as one body. Many parts make up the whole. Yet, they form a single unit. This resonates deeply with the spirit of Ward Memorial Baptist Church. Even when times get tough, joy emerges. New life and a broader vision take hold. The church embraces positive change. People accept Christ as Lord and Savior. Baptisms, faith, and worship flourish.
Transformation is the vision. Ward Memorial Baptist Church aims “to see lives transformed by sharing the love of Christ.” This vision is rooted in 2 Corinthians 5:17. It declares that anyone in Christ is a new creation. The old is gone. The new has come.
Consider Joseph from the Old Testament. He was known as “Dreamer.” Like Joseph, Ward Memorial Baptist Church encourages its members to embrace the 4P Principle. This encourages them to be Prepared. This encourages them to be Prayerful. This encourages them to be Positive. This encourages them to be Purposeful.
Ward Memorial Baptist Church began as a small seed. It has blossomed into a place of welcome and transformation. It celebrates its past. It claims its future. It seeks the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Its story reminds us of the power of community. It highlights the impact one person can make. Reverend Albert W. Ward’s legacy lives on.