St. Alma Baptist Church 150th Anniversary Souvenir Magazine

150

ST. ALMA BAPTIST CHURCH TH

CHURCH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR MAGAZINE

We come this far by faith Reverend Dr. Mary W. Moss, Pastor

12681 HIGHWAY 416 | LAKELAND, LA 70752 REV. DR. MARY W. MOSS, PASTOR

From the Pastor Dr. Mary Whitley Moss

Greetings in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ,

One of life's great joys is to be a part of something bigger than myself. This joy came when I was elected the seventh pastor of St. Alma Baptist Church and joined the cloud of witnesses who have watched St. Alma’s impact on the community, the state, and the world. St. Alma was established eleven years after slavery was abolished in 1865. And now, St. Alma continues the mission of our ancestors, providing a place where people can experience God in an authentic way. This journey began with the founding pastor, Rev. Horace Jones. God’s hands were upon this ministry then and are still upon this ministry today. We say to God be the glory.

Therefore, it is with immense joy that as the seventh pastor, I write this greeting. I am so aware of St. Alma’s past but keenly aware of her anticipated future. Pastor Horace Jones laid the foundation.

The church started with a little wooden building with a pot-belly stove. The church had an affinity for education. Black boys and girls were taught reading, writing, and arithmetic. -It started as an effort to teach the children having just come out of slavery. St. Alma has since produced educators, nurses, blue-collar workers, skilled craftsmen, and other professionals in many areas. St. Alma is a rich fountain of Christian education and spiritual edification.

In St. Alma’s rich history, there have only been seven pastors. In her usual progressive style, she became the first church to break the glass-stained ceiling and elect a female pastor. Thus, it has been recorded that Mary Whitley Moss became the first female pastor and the first female pastor ever installed by the Fourth District Baptist Association. St. Alma continues to move forward with a futuristic view of land ownership and a new building. The future is bright, and we are excited about what God is doing in this season. We invite you to join us as we celebrate 150 years of Christian service.

3

Saint Alma Baptist Church of Lakeland

OUR VISION

Saint Alma is a spiritual force of God impacting the lives of people on both sides of the Mississippi River.

OUR GOAL To become a beacon light in the community, saving souls and transforming the lives of people.

OUR MISSION To add souls to the Kingdom of God, to make disciples for Christ, and to minister to the needs of a hurting humanity.

4

Prologue

The history of Saint Alma Baptist Church is an attempt to put together how the church was formed and how it has grown. This attempt to recover historical information, which is a hard task, because many of the elders are now deceased, is to provide a history of the present and a resource for the future. This is even for other churches. Each generation has to report to history. What part are we doing? Each generation must answer that question for themselves. Our 149th Church Anniversary is another opportunity to share our history with the sole objective of preserving the history of Saint Alma Baptist Church. All progress, all innovations, are incomplete without a history. Though some history is dark, we are reminded by one sociologist that light comes out of the darkness. Saint Alma Baptist Church came from somewhere. History provides the answer.

Any discussion about churches in Lakeland, LA must consider the religious life of its people and the beginning of churches in the area. The information shared is but a part of a larger history. Most churches’ beginnings are recorded on the cornerstone of the church. The cornerstone at Saint Alma Baptist Church was laid on July 29, 1979, A.D. by M.W. Universal Grand Lodge, H. Edmond, M.W. Grand Master. The cornerstone serves as a historical recording of the church’s beginning showing Rev. Horace Jones as the founding pastor in 1874. The 13th Amendment passed by Congress on January 31, 1865, and ratified by the states on December 6, 1865, formally abolished slavery. In 1874, Rev. Horace Jones founded Saint Alma Baptist Church nine years later. Saint Alma was formed in the shadow of the plantation. Julien de Lallande Poydras as an itinerant peddler purchased land in Lakeland in 1801. Julien Poydras died in 1824, and his nieces and nephews sold the land that is now known as Alma to David Barrow from St. Francisville. In 1859, George Pitcher became a partner and the plantation was named Alma. It is believed that the name Alma came from a friend’s young daughter who had died. George Pitcher eventually became the sole owner of Alma Plantation and his great-grandchildren, the Stewarts, still own Alma. Information concerning who granted permission to Rev. Jones to build the church is scanty.

LINKS TO THE PAST

5

Saint Alma Baptist Church

A History of Saint Alma Baptist Church

Our Pastors

Horace Jones 1874-1920

Steve Johnson 1921-1928

Sidney Davis 1928-1950

Cenas Jones, Sr. 1950-1993

James Allen Terr ance, Jr. 1993-2003

David Thomas, Jr. 2004-2007

Mary Whitley Moss 2007-Present

6

Our Story 1874-1928

The First Pastor-Reverend Horace Jones The Saint Alma Baptist Church of Lakeland, Louisiana is located in the rural community of Lakeland which is in the southern part of the state in Pointe Coupee Parish. The church's physical structure is situated near the parish line between the Pointe Coupee and West Baton Rouge Parishes. The church’s building was erected in 1874 on the land provided by the Alma Plantation. The white wooden church had three rows of benches and a wood heater that set in the middle of the church. The physical structure was described by the late Virginia Young in 1994 as “A white wooden church with the walls made of cypress planks and fans were in the windows. The choir area was located on the left side of the church altar. The church building was surrounded by a white picket fence with a china ball tree in front. The bathrooms were located outside, and the baptisms were held in Ǥ the bayou behind the church.” ʹͲͳ͵Ǥ

In 1874, a group of 65 people was inspired and led by God to provide a place where the residents of the Lakeland Community could assemble to worship. The Rev. Horace Jones was the founding pastor. According to ancestry records, Reverend Horace Jones was born in 1848 in Woodville, Mississippi (Wilkinson County). At the time of Saint Alma Baptist’s acquisition, Rev. Jones lived in Lakeland, LA.

7

Jake Whitfield was the president of the Board of Deacons, and William Watkins served as the secretary-senior deacon. It was during this time; the church was named Saint Alma Baptist Church.

Rev. Horace Jones and his wife, Addie Crowel, had 10 children. Rev. Horace Jones served until his death on June 8, 1920.

The Second Pastor-Reverend Steve Johnson Rev. Richard Johnson and Rev. Horace Thornton conducted church service until the church elected Rev. Steven Johnson as pastor in 1921. Rev. Steve Johnson and his wife, Lizzie Whitfield, had 8 children. Rev. Johnson served as pastor until his death in October 1928.

1928-1950

The Third Pastor-Reverend Sidney Davis

8

After Pastor Johnson’s death, the congregation elected Rev. Sidney Davis as its third pastor.

Saint Alma has always had an interesting culture. It is a culture that has an affinity for education and great preaching. Though many of the people were poor, they were always open to innovative ideas and education. In the early 1900s, the church became not only a place for worship but also a place where Afro-American children of Lakeland and surrounding areas could learn to read and write. A school was established in Saint Alma Baptist Church.

It was under Rev. Davis’s leadership that the Saint Alma Baptist Church established a choir in 1936.

The choir’s first organization meeting was held at the home of the late Priscilla Broaden. There was no pianist. The choir’s officers were Cenas Jones, Sr., president, and Junior Green, vice president. The first piano of the church was purchased during this administration. The first pianist for the church was the late Harvey Herron.

Many of the pastors in the area served more than one local congregation. Churches held worship service only two Sundays a month. Saint Alma Baptist Church held worship services each first and second Sunday. The first Sunday Worship Service LINK TO THE PAST Reverend Davis was Testimonial Service, where each member would render their testimony, whereas, the second Sunday was recognized as Communion Service.

After two weeks of revival, the annual baptism was held on the second Sunday in September. Before the beginning of the worship services, the church bell would be rung by the church section. The late Walter Moore, Sr. served as one of the church sections.

The church also added the Usher Ministry in 1939. Priscilla Jacobs provided leadership to the first Usher Board. Past presidents include Emma Whitfield, Lode Johnson, Kitty Paul, Amelia Joseph, Evelyn Lee, Rachel Whitfield Moore, Elnora Whitfield, Ferdinand Ransom, and Rufus McDormic.

During Rev. Davis’ tenure as pastor, Deacons James Moore, Sr., T. Moses, S. Jacobs; Deaconesses Priscilla Jacobs, Amelia Joseph, Rachel Overstreet, Lula Lee, and Lode Johnson served the church.

Rev. Sidney Davis and his wife, Emma had three children. Pastor Davis served faithfully until his death in 1950.

9

1950-1993

The Fourth Pastor-Reverend Cenas Jones, Sr.

Rev. Cenas Jones was elected pastor to serve as the fourth pastor in 1950 following the death of Rev. Sidney Davis. He received his calling from the Lord to preach in 1940. Rev. Cenas Jones and his wife, Julia Moore have nine children.

In 1953, the school was moved into a new small school structure which was built on the grounds of Saint Alma. The class of 1953 was the last class to complete their education in the church. The church continued to be utilized for graduation ceremonies and other programs until a new school structure was built on Highway 413 in 1958.

When the bayou behind the church became unsafe for baptism, an outside concrete baptismal font was built. Sister Willie Mae Holden stated in the 136th-year history that she was one of the first persons to be baptized in 1950 by Rev. Cenas Jones. During the 1960s, the church discontinued the use of the concrete baptismal font and begin using the pond located on Alma Planation for baptism.

Under the leadership of Reverend Jones, Deacons Wilbert Ferdinand and Eljames McQuillon served as the Chairperson of the Deacon Board. Deacon George Johnson served as the Church Treasurer until his death in 1985. After Deacon Johnson’s death, Deacon Sam Adolph, Jr. served as Treasurer.

In 1953, the choir was reorganized with Alberta Desselle as pianist. The choir purchased a second piano, an organ, choir robes, choir chairs, and hymn books. Drums were added to

10

the ministry during Rev. Cenas Jones’ tenure as pastor. The leaders of the choir were Deacon George Johnson, Eliza Pollard, and Joseph Tircuit. Past secretaries for the choir have been Victoria Ferguson, Peggy Sambo, and Carolyn Jones.

The first Vacation Bible School in the Lakeland Community was held in 1959. The Young Adult Choir was organized in 1964 with Lester Williams as pianist. This choir later merged with the Senior Choir due to aging issues within the senior choir. In 1988, Eliza Pollard became ill and was unable to serve as its president. Alberta Desselle resigned from her position as a pianist. William Smart and Louis Freeman served in the Music Ministry under Rev. Cenas Jones.

In 1976, a major renovation of the church was done. Rev. Jones was instrumental in renovating the little white wooden church into a red brick church. The church was bricked

by Ruben Warren from Mansur, LA. The sanctuary was extended, the choir stand relocated behind the pulpit, an in-door baptistery font was added, and central heating and air conditioning were added. The cornerstone was laid to recognize this accomplishment.

Rev. Cenas Jones was a man of vision and under his progressive leadership, a small parking lot, and a fellowship hall were built. Reverend Jones emphasized physical stewardship, Christian Education, ministering to the sick and shut-in members, and feeding his “lambs”.

The youths were active participants in the LA Youth Encampments, which were held at Southern University for many years.

The 110th Church Anniversary reported that several persons received their special call to the ministry at Saint Alma. Those persons were Phil Johnson, Harry Moore, Lemuel Jones, Robert Brown, Harry Tircuit, and Isadore Johnson.

Though Rev. Jones had a vision to purchase a church van, his vision went unrealized at the time of his death. He served Saint Alma faithfully for 43 years at the time of his death on August 27, 1993.

The first four preachers all died during their pastorate. A common practice upon the death of a pastor in office was to drape the chair in black and place a black wreath on the door as a sign of mourning for 30 days. After the 30 days mourning period ended, the “unveiling” worship service was held. At this time, the church could move forward in electing or appointing a pastor.

Persons serving as secretaries during Rev. Sidney Davis and Rev. Cenas Jones's pastoral were: Chamberlin Ferry, Harry Moore, Sr., Mary Murphy, Lester McQuillon, Ben Pollard, Joyce Henderson, Irma Johnson, Jaunice Chustz, Lenny Young, and Mary Joseph.

11

1993-2003

The Fifth Pastor-Reverend James Allen Terrance, Jr. Rev. James Allen Terrance, Jr. served as interim pastor from August 1993 until December 1993. He was elected as the fifth pastor of Saint Alma Baptist Church in December 1993.

Rev. Terrance was installed on February 6, 1994. One of his first actions as Pastor was to seek membership approval for a monthly stipend to Rev Cenas Jones’ widower, Julia Jones.

Throughout his tenure, Reverend Terrance's primary focus was Christian Education and financial stewardship. Under Reverend Terrance’s leadership, the church began a weekly Bible Study and scheduled leadership workshops. For the first time, members were encouraged to attend the Fourth District and the National Baptist Congress of Christian Education. Reverend Terrance's focus on financial stewardship led the church from dues to a tithing church. Thus, he established a system for giving which was managed by Thelma Jones. He also initiated the envelope system of giving. Reverend Terrance initiated the “Project Promise Land” Campaign to purchase land for a new sanctuary.

Under Reverend Terrance’s administration, mission activities such as, “Feed a Brethren,” the SABC Christmas “Feed a Family” and the local nursing home ministry were initiated. The first Board of Trustees was approved on March 28, 1994. The initial members who were elected to serve a one three-year term were: Ernestine Ford, Ola Moore, Joyce Lewis, and Cenas Jones. The upkeep and maintenance of the church building and the financial affairs were entrusted to the board.

The Cenas Jones, Sr. Grants, and Scholarship Foundation was organized in 1994 to award scholarships to students seeking post-secondary education. Kattie Beverly and Olivia Carter

12

elected as chairperson and co-chairperson, respectively. In 1994, the annual Power-up Camp began. The purpose of the camp was to assist boys’ and girls’ holistic development. A partnership was established with Southern University Empowerment program to provide computer training to the campers.

In February 1994, the Sunday School Department was reorganized under the leadership of Linda Lockett, Superintendent, and Audrey Antoine, Assistant Superintendent. The first Sunday school classes began on March 6, 1994, and consisted of classes designed for adults, juniors, and intermediates. Saint Alma’s Tape Ministry began in 1994. The CDs of the worship services were distributed to all sick and shut-in members. CDs could also be purchased by members and guests.

On March 13, 1994, Saint Alma premiered its publication of the newsletter, Living Waters.

The purpose of the newsletter was to inform the membership of church activities and to provide inspiring uplifting articles. Rhonda Carter was appointed as Editor. The logo was the Lily flower.

A Youth Ministry was initiated to foster and nurture Christian development, provide counseling, and sponsor social activities for the youth of Saint Alma, Lakeland, and surrounding areas. Pamela Jones served as Youth Director. Event of the Youth Ministry included youth revivals, as well as back-to-school festivals. The first youth service was held on the fourth Sunday in July 1994. The youth were engaged in the Congress of Christian Education and Glory to Glory Youth Conferences in which they traveled across states including Atlanta, Georgia, Houston, Texas, Orlando, Florida, and Charlotte, North Carolina.

The church applied for and received certification as a 501(c)(3) organization on December 27, 1994. The Board of Trustees approved a co-radio ministry venture with Mount Bethel Baptist Church of Alsen, LA, “The Redeeming the Time Radio Ministry.” The Pastor broadcasted each Sunday at 6:00 p.m. on station 92.7 FM. Later, the broadcast partnered with Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, and moved to WXOK 1460 AM at 3:00 p.m. each Sunday. This partnership continued until 2003.

In 1995, the church initiated a renovation program. This renovation included the reconstruction of the choir stand, the pulpit, the covering of the pews, and the installation of new carpet. A handicap ramp was also installed. The note for the renovation was retired in 1998. On October 6, 2002, Irma Toussaint Johnson was licensed to preach the gospel. She became the first female to be licensed and the first person licensed by Rev. Terrance at the Saint Alma Baptist Church.

The Reverend James A. Terrance resigned from his pastoral position on February 28, 2003, to become the pastor of Friendship Baptist Church located in Kansas City, Missouri. Rev. James Terrance and his wife, Prentice Adrian Horton have two children.

13

During the period of March 1, 2003, to December 19, 2003, Reverend Lemuel Jones served as Interim Pastor. For the first time in its church history, Saint Alma initiated a Pastoral Search Committee of nine members to search for a new pastor. The Pastoral Search Committee was recommended by the Deacon Ministry under the leadership of Eugene Collins and was approved by the Church to provide the church with three pastoral candidates. Irma Johnson and Pamela Jones served as co-chairpersons. The members of the Committee were: Ashley Antoine, Stephanie Breaux, Vickie DeCuir, Ernestine Ford, Alen C. Jones, Jr., Donovan Jones, and Gregory Martin.

2003-2007

The Sixth Pastor-Reverend David Thomas, Jr.

On December 12, 2003, Reverend David Thomas, Jr. was elected as pastor. Reverend Thomas was installed as the sixth pastor of the Saint Alma Baptist Church on March 28, 2004. Pastor Thomas stressed the support and continuance of the established ministries. In August 2004, the first Annual Youth Explosion in which school supplies were given to over 50 students was held. After Hurricane Katrina, the church did an outreach to its victims. On March 8, 2007, Reverend David Thomas, Jr. submitted his resignation as pastor. The church sorted God’s guidance and leadership. Rev. David Thomas and his wife, Laurise has one daughter.

Deacon Donovan Jones became chairman of the Deacon Ministry. The church continued its weekly bible study and worship with the assistance of Reverend Mary Moss and Reverend Kevin Fealing, respectively. The Deacon Ministry selected a Pastoral Search Committee. The members of the Committee were: Sam Adolph, Jr., Alexander Antoine, Donovan Jones, Thelma Jones, Richard Mitchell, and Tosha Johnson Mitchell.

14

2007-Present

The Seventh Pastor Reverend Dr. Mary Whitley Moss On December 23, 2007, a motion was made by Deacon Donovan Jones and seconded by Deacon Eugene Collins that Rev. Mary Whitley Moss be elected as pastor. The members in attendance unanimously elected Rev. Mary Whitley Moss as its seventh pastor. Thus, the work of the Pastoral Search Committee ended. She was installed on Sunday, February 17, 2008. Rev. Moss’s election as the seventh pastor of Saint Alma Baptist Church of Lakeland, Louisiana was a historic moment in the life of the 134-year-old Baptist Church. She became the first female elected to the position of pastor of this traditional Baptist Church and the first female ever installed by the 133-year-old Fourth District Baptist Association. Reverend Moss and her husband, Carl Henry, have three children, one in heaven.

The installation of Reverend Moss as pastor brought vision, competency, and experience.

Being Seminary-trained, spirit-filled, and led, along with experience equipped Reverend Moss to begin the work of rebuilding the church and its ministries. Her vision was to build a ministry that will impact the Kingdom of God by adding souls, strengthening believers, and developing need-driven ministries.

Under her leadership, Pastor Moss has led the church from 15 members that joined her in Bible Study on Thursday nights to over 190 members. There now exists over 14 ministries

15

that were designed to meet the needs of the members and community. The church also acquired two vans to meet the transportation needs of the church. The Sunday school was revitalized and now enjoys age-graded classes.

The church developed an outreach ministry to LSU and Southern University students. The Pastor taught classes at Southern University and the Baptist Student Center at LSU that attracted both students and faculty. Camp Renaissance replaced Camp Power-up a summer camp designed to offer activities and enrichment for children throughout the parish. The Camp offered employment to five persons, which included a camp director, and four young people who served as camp staffers. A website was created to add visibility to our church and its ministries.

On August 25, 2008, the Assimilation Ministry was organized. The purpose of this ministry helps new members move from attending to belonging to the Church family. Under the Assimilation Ministry, each member of the church family automatically becomes a part of the tribal unit. The tribal units are utilized much like cell groups. Each tribe has a tribe leader, who is vested with the responsibilities to welcome members to the tribe, to nurture and encourage them in their spiritual growth, and to guide them through the process of being assimilated into our church family. In September 2008, the church began its Churchbased tutorial program. This ministry was offered to children in the church and the local community. A radio broadcast of the parish-wide Last Seven Words of Jesus Christ held at Saint Alma Baptist Church was broadcasted. In October 2008, Saint Alma acquired three modular buildings and began a renovation program. The renovation of the buildings would help fulfill the church’s vision and provide the capacity to meet educational and administrative needs.

In 2009, members from Saint Alma Baptist became a part of a doctoral study at Beeson Divinity School in Birmingham, Alabama. It was through this study and the completion thereof that Rev. Moss received her Doctor of Ministry Degree in December 2009. Thus, Saint Alma, its church history, and its contribution to the larger body of biblical and theological knowledge became part of the archives at the Beeson School of Divinity. In March 2009, the church kick-off its’ five-year Capital Campaign-God’s Movement, Our Legacy Capital Campaign. The purpose of the Campaign is to provide funding to fund the Church’s capital projects. The Capital Campaign has three phases. Phase one is the renovation of the building to house our educational complex, phase two is for the purchase of land, and phase three is for the erection of a sanctuary.

In December of 2009, the administrative office, and a library of over nine hundred books were completed. This $90,000 project with a line of credit of $40,000 was paid in full in April 2010. Most of the estimated labor cost was done by project managers, Deacons Ernest Jones and Eugene Collins, along with the assistance of men within the congregation.

16

ʹͲͳͲǡ ǡ ͳͷͷͲ Ǥ ʹͻǦ͵Ͳǡ ʹͲͳͲǡ Ǥ

Ǥ Ǥ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ ǡ ͳʹͷ Ǥ

ʹͲͳͳǡ Ǥ

Ǥ ̈́ͳͺ͹ǡͲͲͲǤ ͳʹǡ ʹͲͳͳǡ Ǧ Ǧ Ǥ Ǥ Ǧ Ǥ ͳʹͷ Ǥ

Ǥ Ǧ Ǧ Ǧ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ ǡ Ǧ ǡ Ǥ ȋ ǡ ȌǢ ȋ Ȍǡ Ǧ Ǥ

ʹʹǡ ʹͲͳʹǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ Ǥ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ ǡ ʹͲͳʹǡ ǡ Ǥ ǡ Ǣ Ǣ Ǣ Ǣ Ǣ Ǥ Ǥ ǡ ǡ Ǥ Ǥ ̵ ǡ Ǧ

17

Ǥ ǡ Ǥ

ʹͲͳ͵ Ǥ Ǥ Ǧ ǡ

overall stewardship of the church. This ministry’s goal was created to equip the church to Ǥ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ

Ǥ ʹͺ ǡ Ǥ

Church’s clerk. Other new ministries in 2013 include The Christian Social Ministry and Ǥ ̵ Ǧ Ǥ

Ǥ Ǥ Ȁ Ǧ ǡ Ǧ Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ

ǡ Ǥ ǡ Ǣ Ǣ Ǣ Ǣ Ǣ Ǥ

ʹͲͳͶǡ Ǥ ǡ ǡ ǡ ̈́ͳ͸ǡ͹ͶͲǤͲͲǡ ͹ǤͷΨ ͷǤʹΨǤ ͳǡ ʹͲͳ͵Ǥ ȋ Ȍ ͳǡ ʹͲͳ͸Ǥ ǡ ͳͶǡ ʹͲͳͶǤ Ǥ Ǥ toward growing spiritually. It was through this year’s Vacation Bible School that S ǡ ǡ Ǥ ͵Ͳ Ǥ ͳ͵ʹ Ǧ Ǥ

18

͵Ͳǡ ʹͲͳͶǡ Ǥ Ǥ ʹͲͳͶǡ Ǥ ǣ ǡ Ǧ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ ʹͷǡ ʹͲͳͶǤ

2015 pointed toward the church’s continued work in community outreach. Out of the need ǡ Ǥ ʹ Women’s Ministry with the assistance of Evangelism Ministry and the Deacon Ministry, Ǧ Ǥ ǡ

Ǧ Ǥ ͳͲǡͲͲͲ Ǥ ʹͲͳͷǡ Ǧ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ

ʹͲͳ͸ Ǧ Ǥ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ ʹͲͳ͹ǡ Ǥ Alma. Added to the church’s outreach was Port Allen Evangelistic Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ ͳͶ ǡ Ǥ Ǥ

In 2017, Children’s Church was reǦ Ǥ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ Ǥ ͳ͹ǡ ʹͲͳ͹ǡ ͵Ǥͺ ͵͹͵͸ Ǥ ͳ͵ǡ ʹͲͳͺǡ Ǧ ($161,500). This was the first time in the church’s 144Ǧ would be landowners. The God’s Movement, Our Legacy Capital campaign increase Ǥ

Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ The Pastor’s vision continued for Ǣ Ǥ

19

Ǥ ʹͲͳͻǡ outreach ministries continued, as well as, the God’s Movement, Our Legacy Capital Ǥ

Carol Christopher became the church’s clerk. 2020 begins at the breaking of a new yea Ǥ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ ǡ ǡ Ǣ Ǥ Alma’s vision statement: We will ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ

ͻͲǦ Ǥ ǡ ʹͲʹͲǡ Ǧͳͻ Ǥ Ǥ Ǧ19’s Ǥ ǡ Ǧͳͻ Ǧ Ǧ ʹʹǡ ʹͲʹͲǤ ͳͲ Ǥ Ǥ ǡ ǡ Ǥ Ǧ ʹʹǡ ʹͲʹͲǡ Ǥ Ǥ ʹͲʹͲǡ Ǧ Ǥ Ǥ

The church continued to do ministry. On June 26, 2020, the Titus2 Women’s Ministry hosted Ǥ Ǥ ǡ ʹͲͲ Ǥ ǡ Ǧ Ǥ a car canvassed to drive by each senior’s house and presented them with gift baskets. The ͳͲͲ Ǥ ʹͲʹͲǡ Ǥ ǣ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ Ǧ Ǥ

ʹ͸ǡ ʹͲʹͲǡ Ǧ Ǥ ǡ ̈́ʹͲǡͲͲͲǤ ǡ ʹ͸ǡ ʹͲʹͲǡ Ǥ ǡ

20

ʹʹǡ ʹͲʹͲǡ Ǥ Ǥ

Architect Brandon Grant of 8525 Homes was hired as the church’s architect to design the Ǥ Ǥ ǡ ͳͲǡ ʹͲʹͲǡ held on the grounds of the church. The Titus2 Women’s Ministry adopted two families and Ǥ Ͷʹͷ Ǥ

ͳͶǡ ʹͲʹͳǡ Ǧ ͷͲ Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ Ǧ Ǥ ʹͲʹͳǡ ǡ ǡ

Ǥ Ǧͳͻǡ Ǥ

ʹͲʹʹǡ Ǧ ǡ Alma’s mission remained the same, saving Ǥ ǡ ǡ to Southern University’s campusǡ Ǥ

Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ Alma, as a result of COVID’s impact, has Ǥ ǡ Ǥ

Through God’s graceǡ ǡ Ǥ ǡ ǡ Ǥ ǡ ǡ Ǥ

ʹͲʹ͵ǡ Ǥ God’s Ǥ

ǡ Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ Ǧ ǡ ǡ Ǥ Ǥ

21

Ǥ ǡ Ǧͳͻǡ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ Moss’s ǡ Ǥ

“times”. St. Alma had grown from a cell phone and its camera to a fullǦ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ

Ǧͳͻǡ Ǥ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ ’ Ǥ ǡ ǡ Ǧ Ǥ ’s health have been determined to be, spirituality, attendance, and Ǥ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ Ǥ ʹͲʹͲǡ ǦǨͻǡ ͳ͵ʹǤ Ǥ ǡ ʹͲʹͳǡ ͳ͵͸ Ǣ ʹͲʹʹǡ ͳͶ͹ Ǣ ʹͲʹ͵ǡ ͳͷʹ Ǥ

ǡ Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ ȋ Ȍ ͳʹͺ͸ͳ Ͷͳ͸ ͵͹͵͸ Ǥ

Ǥ ͳͷͲ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ ǡ ǦͳͻǤ ǡ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ ͳ͹ͷǤ Ǧ ʹͲʹͶǤ Ǧ Ǥ testify along with the Psalmist, Psalm 118:23, “This is the Lord’s doing it is marvelous in our eyes.” Ǣ ǡ Ǥ

22

St. Alma Baptist Church 12861 Highway 416

Lakeland, LA 70752 stalmabaptistchurch.org 225.627.5390 Dr. Mary Whitley Moss, Senior Pastor

Richard Mitchell, Chairman, Deacon Ministry Thelma Jones, Executive Assistant for Operation Nicole M. Raby, Executive Assistant for Ministry Carol Christopher, Church Clerk _________________________________________________________

Congratulations, St. Alma on 150 Years of Christian Service

As the seventh pastor of this historic church, I wish to congratulate you for 150 years of faithfulness to God and God’s people. St. Alma’s impact has been significant. We have lived up to our mission, saving souls and changing lives. St. Alma has continued to be relevant. Thus, young people are joining the Alma family and becoming vital to furthering the mission of the church. Thank you for being kingdom minded. Again, congratulations and I pray God’s choicest blessings upon the St. Alma family.

It is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes!

Rev. Dr. Mary Whitley Moss, Senior Pastor

23

Saint Alma Baptist Church for Ministering for 150 Years from Generations to Generations

Audrey Antoine and Family

24

Alexander Antoine Sr. and Noel Antoine Love You Both Alexander Antoine, Jr.

25

Congratulations !

150 years of Saving souls and changing lives

Terry Ann Antoine

Naylah Ray Collins

"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you".

Matthew 6:33

26

Harry and Mariah Joseph Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Audrey Joseph Antoine 27

Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church of Lakeland

Congratulations!

150 Years of Kingdom Work May the righteousness of God be present in your church as you welcome this anniversary year. May we live exemplary lives that continue to draw people to the church .

Pastor Jeffery Jackson 12144 Hwy 416, Lakeland, LA

Congratulations from

SABC Deacon Ministry

Minister Azalee Barrow

Congratulations from

SABC

Deacon Richard Mitchell Jr. Chairman

28

Sis. Tosha Mitchell Youth Leader

Happy Anniversary

169 East Main Street New Roads, LA 70760

Congratulations!

Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love.

Happy 150th Year Anniversary

I Corinthians 2:9

29

Congratulations Saint Alma Baptist Church from

Greater Beach Grove Missionary Baptist Church

Worship Service 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Reverend Keno Spurlock, Pastor 5352 Ford Street Baton Rouge, LA 225-355-7379 30

Happy 150th Anniversary from Bright Morning Star Baptist Church of Napoleonville

Through tremendous faith in God, You have been given this glorious day to celebrate.

Congratulations!

Lubertha Harris

Rev. Cleveland Washington, Sr., Pastor First Lady Dana Washington

"Continue steadfastly in prayer, being

watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the world, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison - that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak."

Colossians 4:2-4

Congratulations!

150th Church Anniversar y

And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

Matthew 16:18

Archie Jones III

Kandie Huff

31

33

May our church be like a tree and always watered by our Father in Heaven. May our branches grow to be abundant with fruit and prosperous in its tidings. As new seasons come and go, may God continue to bless our congregation with fruition and abundance.

Happy Anniversary

Corey, Carol and Trinity Christopher

34

In Loving

Memory

Donovan “DJ” Wayne Jones, Jr. DJ’s Favorite Scripture Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future"

35

Our 150th Church Anniversary We celebrate this day in the church with joy in our hearts.

God sought to observe this glorious day and we are ever thankful to Him for allowing our church to thrive.

Edward and Shadice Free

36

Congratulations!

Congratulations!

150th Year Anniversary

OYO Audubon Inn 722 S. Lobdell Hwy ∞ Port Allen, LA 70767 225-383-7188

37

Mary Emma Moore Sunrise October 13, 1923

Sunset January 5, 2011

"Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate."

—Proverbs 31:31

38

39

In memory of

Gregory “Greg” Jones

February 17, 1957 to August 15, 2024 “Our legacy is really the lives we touch, the inspiration we give, altering someone's plan if even for a moment - and getting them to think, cry, laugh, argue. More than anything, we are remembered for our smiles; the ones we share with our closest and dearest, and the ones we bestow on a total stranger, who needed it right then, and God put you there to deliver.”

—Carrie Hamilton

Brenda Ann LeBeau- Jones

40

Congratulations!

Saint Alma Baptist Church For doing impactful ministry for 150 Years

Deacon Herman Robinson Little Rock Baptist Church of Morganza

41

42

Congratulates St. Alma Baptist Church For its 150 Years of Kingdom Wor k

Saturdays 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.

107.3 FM 43

My Parents Reverend Cenas Jones and Deaconess Julia Jones

“Death leaves no one ca Love leaves a m one can s

August 26, 1910– August 27, 1993

February 15, 2010– March 1, 2003

Thelm

My Godparents Reverend Lemuel Jones and Deaconess Myrtle Williams Jones

a heartache an heal; memory no steal.”

August 7, 1933– March 30, 2008

August 7, 1930– May 8, 2008

ma Jones 45

Louisiana Area Women in Ministry (LAWIM) Congratulates Reverend Dr. Mary Whitley Moss, Pastor and the congregation of

The St. Alma Baptist Church As you Celebrate Your 150th Year Church Anniversary

We pray the legacy continues…

Ephesians 4:11-15: So, Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that The Body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

In unity, you find strength; in faith, you find hope as you reflect on the past, embrace the present and envision a future filled with God’s amazing grace.

Louisiana Area Women in Ministry’s Mission Statement: Our mission is to provide women who have a sense of call to ministry, sisterly support, mentoring and opportunities to serve.

46

A Message on 150th Church Anniversary

Dear St. Alma Baptist Church Family: Our family congratulates you on your 150 years of faithful service to the community . Eyes have not seen nor ears heard all that our God has in store for YOU. Thank you for doing the Lord's work and for your obedience towards Excellence Service. Your faithfulness will pay off after while.

May our God keep you as you continue on your journey of faithfulness to our Savior.

In Christian Love,

Allegra Lockett, Augustine Jackson, Augustine Jordan, Nicole Sparrow, James Williams, Jr., Sharon Bosley, Lakisha Williams, Althea Neff, Leslie Young-Reed, Beatrice Snell, Jason Williams,, Sr., and Robert Lockett, Sr.

47

Congratulations

The Mitchells

Deacon Richard Mitchell, Jr. Sis. Tosha Mitchell Sis Gabrielle Mitchell and Bro. Kentrell Mitchell

48

Congratulations!

Congratulations!

Olevia P. Williams-Williams

Happy Anniversary

150 years

RMW Trucking, LLC New Roads, LA

49

Best of Wishes We wish St. Alma Baptist Church the best of wishes as you celebrate your

150th anniversary.

We thank our Heavenly Father that He has allowed Her to make it this far.

He has led St. Alma in the direction of righteousness since her beginnings.

We pray for spiritual growth and continued prosperity, as well as the continuation of His goodness, to bless Your future as a community.

The Mustiful Family

Sally, TaShawn and Adrienne 50

Congratulations

Congratulations “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these”

Matthew 19:14

Alisha Lockett

Congratulations

Alfreda West 51

Congratulations Veronica Denise Terrance Independent Beauty Consultant

225.445.5638 MaryKay.com/VTerrance

Shop online with me 24/7

Congratulations!

52

We are grateful to the St. Alma Baptist Church for doing the Lord’s work for 150 years. May God bless You to continue to make a difference in the Community and the Parish.

Nelson Law Firm

Thomas A. Nelson Attorney At-Law

308 East Main Street Post Office 896 New Roads , LA 70760

Phone 225.638.9083 Fax: 225.638.7227 Email: ta_nelson@bellsouth.net

53

Celebrating With Saint Alma Baptist Church of Lakeland 150th Church Anniversary

We the pastor, officers, and Member of the New Light Missionary Baptist Church salute you for your 150th years of pointing souls to Christ.

Our prayers are with you and the membership as you continue to win souls for Christ.

From: Dr. Gil H. Wright, Pastor FL Jeannette Wright Officers, and Membership of New Light Missionary Baptist Church 54

CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES TO REV. DR. MARY W. MOSS, PASTOR SAINT ALMA BAPTIST CHURCH OF LAKELAND ON YOUR 150TH CHURCH ANNIVERSARY

From New St. John Baptist Church 1455 South Boulevard Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70802 The Rev. Dr. W. Marshall Myles, Senior Pastor 55

St. Alma Baptist Church, I salute your 150 years of service! Thank you for being a light in dark places and for serving your community well. You have been a visionary in educating our people of color when others thought we were not worthy. In addition, you have educated many disciples for Christ.

Keep moving forward, keep feeding the hungry, keep clothing those in need, keep striving for excellence, and keep doing what thus said The Lord.

Congratulations on your 150 years of GOD’S WORK! Love, Olevia P. Williams-Williams

Congratulations

56

Happy 150th Church Anniversar y

Congratulations!

Kurt Jarreau

Pointe Coupee Parish Council District H

Randy Heber t

P. O. Box 383 Livonia, LA 70755

11407 Tonawanda Street Por t Allen, LA 225.590.1845

e. kjarreau@pcparish.org c. (225) 240-2337

57

58

59

In Memory of

Congratulations on your

150th Anniversary "And I heard a voice from heaven saying, 'Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. 'Yes,' says the Spirit, 'that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them'".

Revelation 14:13

Deaconess Mary Sambo Patin & James Patin, Sr. Usher Ministry

Horace Johnson, Sr. Anna M. Patin Johnson Michael R. Patin 60

In Loving Memory .

Your memories live on as tree blossoms and grows.

Priscilla Ann Moore Woods Alpha - January 1, 1953

Omega - December 5, 2004

61

God’s Abundant Blessings to Rev. Dr. Mary Moss and the St. Alma Baptist Church on your 150th Year Anniversary Take heed now; for the Lord hath chosen thee to build an house for the sanctuar y: be strong, and do it.

I Chronicles 28:10, KJV

Norman and Janice Stewart and Family 62

In

Loving Memory of

Eugene and Rolia Terrance "Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die."

John 11:25-26:

Loving and Missing you always, Children Grandchildren Great-Grandchildren Great, Great Grandchildren I

Clara V. Harrison Joseph Harrison W. J. Minor

Always in my heart,

E. Mike Harrison

63

Congra

1874

May God continue to work in mysterious ways and use H

May He always uplift our leaders

Minister Joyce Ha

64

atulations

2024

His mighty works to draw souls to the kingdom of God.

s in grace, wisdom and knowledge.

awkins and Family

65

St. Alma Baptist Church, Co

66

ongratulations on your 150 years - The King Family

67

Congratulations!

150th Year Church Anniversary "And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it."

Matthew 16:18

The Moore Family

68

TIGER ELECTRIC & CONTRACTOR, LLC 8513 Mandela Dr., New Roads, LA 70760 VA, FHA, RHS OR CONVENTIONAL 210 WARRANTIES

Residential or Commercial 225-718-2298 or tiger711@cox.net www.tigerrecllc.com WHY RENT WHENYOU CAN OWN? HOMEOWNER PROGRAME AVAILABLE. CALL OR CONTACT YOUR LOCAL GOVERNMENT, CIVIC GROUP OR CHURCH FOR MORE INFORMATION.

69

Congratulations !

150th Year Anniversary

70

71

Dr. Mark A. Ellis, Pastor 9229 N Ridgewood Dr. Baton Rouge, LA 70814

Saint Alma Baptist Church 12461 Highway 416 Lakeland, LA 70752

Saving Souls . . . Changing Lives

72

Unity Construction of Baton rouge, LLC 1124 Parlange Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70806

AC Service, Repair, and Install Nathaniel “T-Yot” Ashflord Phone: 225.303.2976

Congratulations on attaining 150 years of service to the

body of Christ. Let us pray that God continues to bless us with many more years of abundance.

May God strengthen us and give us the courage to always stand with him.

Trudy Free 73

Congratulations The new milestone reached at this church is amazing. Let us celebrate this amazing milestone May God in his infinite mercies show us more blessings in the years to come.

Deacon Willie Moore and Deaconess Shirley Moore

74

Congratulations to St. Alma Baptist Church

Happy Anniversary

May the body of Christ be present in this church and grow with the glory of the Father and flourish with the gifts that he has given us. We can carry out his deeds through his will alone.

Clyde and Jessie Bethly Betz

75

Congratulations from

Presiding Elder Gwendolyn E. Snearl

76

Congratulations Pastor Mary Moss and the St. Alma Baptist Church on 150 Years of uplifting God’s Kingdom and serving the community.

Brother Adell Brown and Sister Doris Brown CONGRATULATIONS to

St. Alma Baptist Church

Through the

Reverend Dr. Mary Whitley Moss, Senior Pastor

years...

&

IN YOUR WORKS TO “THE GLORY OF GOD” Blessing Clarence and Janice Jones

Dr. Raymond and Dr. andrea Cosey

77

Pastor Mary Moss and the St. Alma Baptist Church Family extend a heartfelt thank you for your congratulatory messages.

78

Congratulations!

Robert Collier

Raymond Fontenette

Courtney Jack

Barbara Jones

Sharoneca Lockett

Kenneth Washington

Patricia Williams

79

REV. DR. MARY WHITLEY MOSS, SENIOR PASTOR 12861 HIGHWAY 416 LAKELAND, LOUISIANA 70752 225-627-5390 VISION@STALMABAPTISTCHURCH.ORG WWW.STALMABAPTISTCHURCH.ORG