First African Baptist Church History Journal by HiTouch Enterprises

OneHundred&TwentyYearsofFaith

In the Fall of 1902, Mrs. Louise Spain came to see Mrs. Elizabeth Taylor at her place of employment and said she had come to see her about starting a Baptist Mission. Mrs. Taylor stated: "Sister Spain, you had better tell me your plans while I am down on my knees so that I may think it over and pray over it. There is no one to go to this Church because Mt. Zion Christian Methodist Episcopal Church is already here, and I would not leave my Church." At that time, Sister Taylor was a member of the Monumental Baptist Church in Philadelphia. Sister Spain said to Sister Taylor: “I would not ask you to leave your Church - I want you to come and help me in this work. The Lord will send people here in the years to come. These fields and pastures will be built up, and your children and my children will carry on this work when you and I have been called to our heavenly home." Mrs. Taylor said: "I will help all I can." From that day on, Sisters Spain and Taylor worked together until the Heavenly Father saw fit to call Sister Spain from labor to reward. The first night of service was a prayer service held in Sister Spain's kitchen. There were eight people in number: namely, Brothers William H. Spain, Whitfield Spain, Mr. Norman Spain, Mr. Abraham Thornton (later converted and baptized into the Mission), Mr. Everett Walker, Sisters Louisa Spain, Annie Spain, and Eliza Taylor. Mr. Lonis Makel converted from the Methodist Faith and was baptized, and became a Trustee serving in this office until he moved from the Township to the New England states. Later, Mr. London Robinson was converted and baptized in Morton, Penna., and became a deacon in this mission. Mrs. C. Burley, sister of Mrs. Hanna Kinsey, was converted, baptized, and became a faithful member. Her grandmother followed her.

One of the first great sorrows of the Mission was the passing of Brother William H. Spain, and they felt they were without a leader. Brother Spain was a praying, singing, and working member always ready to serve at any post that needed his service. Later, Mr. And Mrs. Joseph White and Mr. And Mrs. David Kinsey united with the Mission, and the little congregation increased to such an extent that more room was needed. Up to this time, the Mission held services in Sister Spain's kitchen - using the sewing machine for the pulpit, which also served as a Communion table.

Sister Taylor invited the Rev. J.B. Brandon to the Township Mission to see if he could assist. He came, often walking back and forth from Darby through hot sunshine, rain, and snow to lend his assistance. At that time, Rev. Brandon was not ordained and had to invite another minister to serve the Lord's Supper. Rev. Brandon remained until he left to enter college, and thus, the Lord blessed the little Mission. In 1903, the small congregation built its first Church at the site, now known as the Hermesprota Creek at Felton and Laurel Avenues. Many of the neighborhood's men helped with the Church's building. The little red building was completed in three weeks, and many worked by lantern light during the night.

In July 1904, Rev. J.B. Brandon invited the Knights of Pythias and their band and the St. Mary's Court of Calanthes No. 11 to attend the dedication of the new building. They marched from Darby to the Church and gave the largest donation that the Mission had ever received. Dinner was served at the home of Sister Beckett, who resided in Sheppard Lane near Jackson Avenue. During the same year, Sister Eliza Taylor married Mr. John H. Wright.

After Rev. J.B. Brandon left for college in 1904, Rev. Richard Raine came to the Church. The new First African Baptist Church was started in the field during his tenure. While the new Church was being built, Bro. Lee, husband of Mother Bessie Lee, built the first firehouse in the Township and made it available to the Mission congregation until they could use the basement of the new Church.

Mr. and Mrs. William Miller and Mrs. Dolly Johnson joined the Church and worked to build up the Sunday School and Young Peoples Choir. Mr. and Mrs. Gilson Bethic worked faithfully to build up the B.Y.P.U.

Deacon George W. Robinson, Chairman of the Board of Deacons, Deacon Charles Alexander, Secretary of the Board, Deacon Samuel Hill, Deacon Moses Adams, and others banded together and formed a praying unit, which went from house to house, singing and praying. During these meetings, many were converted, baptized, and became members of the Church. Baptism was performed in Hermesprota Creek.

The work of the early Church and the Mission started humbly and resulted in a beautiful edifice. The members cleaned the Church and donated wood for heat and kerosene oil for light. The Baptismal Pool was located beneath the pulpit, and the floor sections had to be removed for baptismal services.

After Rev. Raine left the Church, Rev. C.T. Wilcher became Pastor. During his pastorate, the Cornerstone was laid. The Mission formed a corporation per the requirements and regulations of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the public worship of Almighty God, according to the Faith, Doctrine, Discipline, and Usage of the Baptist Church. Those subscribers were Rev. C.T. Wilcher, Lewis Makel, George W. Robinson, and William H. Brown. The Corporation was certified, and a seal was granted to the signers of the Deed on the 15th Day of September, A.D. 1909.

Rev. McAllen followed Rev. Wilcher and remained for a short time. He was followed by Rev. W.E. Scott, who later left the Church and formed the Emmanuel Baptist Church, now known as the Walter Avenue Baptist Church. In 1918, Rev. James Lincoln Lewis became Pastor.

In 1926, Rev. Lewis called nine ladies together and organized a Judah Club. The purpose of the Club was twofold: First, to Christian fellowship and second, to devise a new means for raising funds for the Church. The members of the Club were: Mrs. Beatrice D. Smith, President; Mrs. Hattie Savage, Vice President; Mrs. Octavia Ellis, Treasurer; Mrs. Margaret Booth, Mrs. Mamie Arnold, Mrs. Ida Craig, Mrs. Amanda Lee, and Mrs. Alice Jefferson. Fellowship among the Judah Club members grew very strong, and several programs sponsored by Mrs. Lillian Ledbetter were very successful.

Also in 1926, with the authorization of the Church, Sister Rebecca Robinson organized the present Usher Board, which was known as the Ladies Auxiliary. The Junior Ushers was also tagged at that time with Sister Robinson as President of the Ladies Auxiliary and Supervisor of the Junior Ushers.

On the second Sunday in May 1927, President Beatrice D. Smith (who had participated in Women's Day Programs in her home church in Wilmington, Delaware) organized the members of the Club and the women of the Church in a Women's Day effort. The Women's Day effort was the First Women's Day for First African, and the captains reported the large sum of $40.00 (Forty dollars). It was a great day. A few years later, the women were eager to have a similar program; so, the missionaries revised the

service and all of the women of the Church wore white. Mrs. Mary B. Whitsett was the president, and Mrs. Mary E. Randolph was her assistant.

The beginning of the depression years came during Rev. Lewis' tenure. However, the men of the Church volunteered to perform the needed repair work and completed the renovation of the Sunday school room with a concrete floor. The renovation of the stairway leading to the Sanctuary was completed. Trustee Irving Chavous made tables and chairs for the Sunday School. Brother Simon Smith was Chairman of the Board of Trustees, and Brother Irving Chavous was Secretary. All of the men on the Board were dedicated, hardworking Christians. The Church was still blessed to have Trustee Smith's widow, Sister Mamie Smith, still with us. Sister Smith served faithfully for many years as Sunday School Superintendent, for which she received a certificate from the Church. Sister Smith was also a member of the Usher Board and other auxiliaries.

During this period, the Baptist Clergy of the community had a printing press and every week each had an article that told of the progress of their respective Church. The paper's name was "The Christian Review” and was carried in the store of the Sunday School Superintendent, Brother Raymond F. Ledbetter.

Rev. Lewis later moved to Morton, Pennsylvania in 1935. During this period, Rev. James Arnold served as Interim Pastor. The Church also served as an Annex of the former Lincoln Elementary School to alleviate the overcrowding (It is now the First A.M.E. Church located on Clifton Avenue and Hook Road.)

Rev. Booker W. Watkins stated that in the Fall of 1935, Mother Council, age 80 years, a real "Mother in Israel," told him that the Lord had revealed to her in a vision that he would very soon be a religious leader of His People in Darby Township. She further warned him to be patient, watchful, and prayerful and to wait on God. He accepted this good Christian Mother's advice. After being without a pastor for a few years, the Rev. Booker Washington Watkins was called to First African Baptist Church on April 16, 1936, and was installed as Pastor on July 19, 1936. Rev. Watkins was baptized in the Shiloh Baptist Church, Trenton, New Jersey, and was ordained at the Vine Memorial Baptist Church, Philadelphia, Pa., by Rev. Leonard Carr. Rev. Watkins graduated from Lincoln University and Seminary with Degrees in Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Sacred Theology. He was awarded the Master of Divinity Degree from the same University in May 1974. Rev. Watkins and his wife, Dr. Mary E. Watkins, came to the First African Baptist Church during the depression in 1936 and found a small and discouraged congregation. However, they found the women working diligently. It was suggested that the fourth Sunday in May become the Annual Day for the Women and would include the entire membership in the fundraising drive. This Annual Women’s Day effort continues to the present time. Also, in the 1930s and 1940s, First African Baptist Church and Mt. Zion C.M.E, Church conducted Vacation Bible School jointly. The churches also went on picnics together to Woodside Park and Mr. Clark's Park, located at the end of Orange Street. At the end of Vacation Bible School, the children would join the Church of their choice, First African or Mt Zion. The Sunday School held fun-raising events consisting of lawn parties and hay rides, sold ice cream, hot dogs, sodas, and sponsored trips to Atlantic City.

In 1936, the Ushers elected Sister Massie Thomas as President. Sister Thomas was president for many years. The Board was very active in fundraising, primarily through trips to Atlantic City and Wildwood, New Jersey.

On June 14, 1937, by authorization of the Church, ten (10) men met at the home of the late Brother Edgar Madison (416 Sharon Avenue) and organized the Senior Usher Board. In late 1959, the Ladies Auxiliary and the Senior Ushers merged and took the name "Senior Usher Board." This Board is still a vital ministry in the Church.

From the 1920s through the 1950s, four services were held on Sundays; Morning Worship and Sunday School in the afternoon; Afternoon Services with visiting Churches; Sunday evening B.Y. P.U. (Baptist Young Peoples Union); Sunday Night Worship Service, and on the first Sunday Evening, Holy Communion. Deacon Cornelius Savage was the Director of the Senior Choir. After Deacon Savage retired, Sister Mary E. Watkins became Director. Sister Ruby L. Cooper was the Director of Choir No. 2, and Sister LaVerne Ledbetter became Director after Sister Cooper retired. Sister Georgianna Murphy followed Sister Ledbetter, remaining Director until the choirs merged years later.

During the first 24 years of Rev. Watkins' pastorate, the church mortgage was burned, and the Church was renovated. The following purchases were made; an electric organ, new furniture for the Sanctuary, and modern heating units for the building. In-door plumbing was installed, which provided indoor sanitary facilities for the ladies and men. All greatly appreciated this. A lot adjacent to the Church was purchased, and the first Church owned parsonage was built.

From 1961 through 1971, the Trustee Board was reorganized to render a greater and more efficient service to the growing membership. The following sub-committees were appointed: Budget, Finance, Personnel, Property, and Purchasing. The Board also initiated provisions for workman's compensation for all salaried personnel and established an annual budget. In 1963 the Board adopted a workable Constitution and By-Laws to govern the membership. In 1964, the Trustee Board elected Sister Margaret Holmes, the first woman to hold a position on the Board. During this early period, the Church progressed and established a new record system, purchased new and modern office equipment, and was now able to do most of the printing of church bulletins and other materials used by the Church. The Church was blessed with the helping hands of the clubs, boards, and organizations. One of the earliest clubs organized was the missionaries. Sister Mary Whitsett was the first president, followed by Mother Anne Downing and many others. It should also be noted that Mother Anne Downing served as a Church Clerk for over 40 years and was assisted by Sister Katherine Beverly, LaVerne Ledbetter, and others.

During the early 1950s through the 1970s, several housing developments occurred in the areas bordering the Church. As a result, the membership grew along with the second and third generations of the original congregation. Most of the clubs were organized during this time. Sister LaVerne Ledbetter organized the Willing Workers, Heart in Hand, and the Nurses Unit. Additional clubs organized were the Flower Club, Rising Star, Missionary Circle, later renamed the Rose of Sharon Missionary Circle; Junior Missionaries, Flower Club of Tomorrow; Board of Christian Education, Hospitality Club, Senior Ushers, Junior Ushers, Pastor's Aid, Senior Choir, Choir #2, Young Adult Choir, Junior Choir, Youth Council, and the Progressive Church School, which held a yearly Vacation Bible School.

For many years, the Church held Easter Sunrise Services, weather permitting, in the park or at the Church. Holy week revival services were climaxed on Good Friday, with ecumenical services with

neighboring Churches and Churches from the New Hope Association of Chester and Vicinity. First African also participated in the Ecumenical World Day of Prayer services held at the Methodist Church of Sharon Hill, Tulley Presbyterian Church, and Holy Spirit Catholic Church. The Church had the guidance of the Advisory Board, the Joint Boards, and the Nominating Committee. Through the years, the Church aided the sick and shut-in members and friends, contributed to Foreign Missions, Camp Hope, sponsored a Cub Scout and a Boy Scout Troop, and held a lifetime membership in the N.A.A.C.P., The New Hope Association, and other church affiliations. In keeping with this period of growth, Rev Edward Richardson came to the Church in 1958. He was a licensed minister and became Pastor Watkins's assistant. The New Hope Association Ordained Rev. Richardson on June 22, 1966. He served the Pastor and congregation faithfully until leaving for Seminary in 1968. During this period, Rev. Allen Roberts also served as an Associate Minister.

In 1963, by a vote of the Church, a Building Council was formed to formulate plans for the present and future needs of the Church. Serving on the Executive Committee were: Trustee H. Earl Fisher, Chairman, Rev. Booker W. Watkins, Dea. Elzie Stephens, Dea. Frank Wright, Trustees Javis L. Wright, Thomas G. Whitsett, Howard C. White, Sr., and William C. Moore. The Council secured the services of Mr. William H. Dodd to serve as the supervising architect for the proposal to build an Annex to the Church. A preliminary draft of the plans was presented to the Church in September 1964. In October 1967, the final plans were presented.

The construction of the new Annex was awarded to Watson and Hudson Construction engineers on June 4, 1970. Groundbreaking ceremonies were held on Sunday, June 28, 1970. The anticipated cost of the construction was $258,770.00. Dea. Fisher reported that the cost of the building permit would be $1,375. Work on the new structure began on August 31, 1970. During the early stages of construction, the south wall of the old building suddenly collapsed on Tuesday, September 22, 1970, rendering it unfit for further use. After a special meeting with the Pastor and Board of Trustees, they determined that the building would have to be demolished.

Mr. & Mrs. Claude Edney, Sr. offered the use of their Funeral Chapel for worship services, as did other churches in the area. The invitation from Mr. and Mrs. Edney was gratefully accepted, and worship services were held at the Chapel. Baptism and other services were held at the Walter Avenue Baptist Church and Mt. Zion C.M.E. Church. During this period, Bro. Javis Wright replaced Bro. Fisher on the Building Council. At an emergency meeting on November 15, 1970, Bro. Fisher, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, stated that the cost of demolition of the old building would be $10,845. It was further noted that the bank would not underwrite an additional loan to cover the cost of the demolition. In order to proceed with the project, Hudson and Watson Associates took on the needed loan. Bro. Fisher suggested a special rally be held in December. Bro. Berkley Cunningham motioned that the Church gives the Financial Committee and the Board of Trustees permission to organize a sacrificial rally in December. This was called a "Victory Rally" and would climax on December 13, 1970. All proceeds were to be given to Trustee Hudson to repay his loan to the Church.

The new edifice would provide many more advantages over those contained in the former Church: namely, seating capacity for 560 persons over the 185 previously accommodated; kitchen facilities capable of serving 300 persons; a pastor's study and conference room; offices for deacons, trustees and administrative staff; adequate storage space for equipment; adequate space for Sunday School providing separate classrooms for each class; air conditioning throughout the entire building; a

fellowship hall in the basement to accommodate 300 persons; different dressing rooms for female and male baptismal candidates; a public address system; and new pews with cushions. To offset the cost of the cushions for the pews, various members paid $100.00 to have memorial plaques placed on the pews and windows. Watson and Hudson Inc submitted a bill for $61,616.00 for work completed, not included in the original contract.

On Sunday, April 25, 1971, the first Worship Service was held in the new Church. The congregation permanently occupied the new edifice on Sunday, May 16, 1971. The cost of the new construction was approximately $260,000. The Honorable Stonewall J. Lett, Worship Grand Master of P.H.A. Masons of Pennsylvania, presided over the Cornerstone laying services. With God's help, we expected to burn the mortgage in 1986.

Between 1967-1976, members instituted many activities to raise funds for the Church, which included a sacrificial rally where all members were asked to pledge $5.00 on the first Sunday of each month. At the urging of Bro. Simon Smith, the Heart in Hand club organized trips that afforded many of the elderly members an opportunity to travel cross country, stopping in Chicago; Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco, California; all of the New England States; Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa, Canada; Jamaica; Disney World which included a cruise to Nassau; Hawaii; Spain, visiting Madrid, Granada, Toledo, Costa Del Sol, also crossed the Straits of Gibraltar into Algiers, North Africa. The funds from all of these trips went to the Church.

As the Church moved forward, it became apparent that the congregation's needs had increased. After approval from the Deacons and membership, Rev. Watkins invited Rev. Charles Cunningham to join the Church. On the first Sunday in April 1973, Rev. Cunningham became the Assistant Pastor. During this time, two members who served faithfully on the Board of Missions at different intervals, Sisters Jeanette McKinney and India Yates, reported to Pastor Watkins that God appointed them to a higher calling and asked him permission to be licensed to preach. Rev. Watkins, after presenting their request to the Board of Deacons and after preaching their trial sermons, the Church voted to grant them license to become Evangelists.

In 1975, The Board of Trustees, with the sanction of the Church, initiated a formal pension plan for the Pastor. During this period, a canvassing committee was formed to visit and encourage inactive members to return to the Church. Also in 1975, Rev. Alexander Thompson accepted a call from God and was licensed to preach. Rev. Thompson was ordained in 1976, by the new Hope Association, and, at the request of Rev. Watkins, immediately became an Associate Minister of First African Baptist Church.

In the fall of 1975, a few members discovered that Pastor Watkins would have pastored the Church for 40 years in April 1976 and decided to give a 40th-Anniversary Banquet in his honor. Because of the many ongoing annual activities of the Church, the members decided to hold the Banquet on February 21, 1976. Because of illness, Rev. Watkins could only attend the last part of the Banquet. On Sunday, February 28, 1976, he had recuperated enough to visit the Church and address the congregation after morning worship services. On Monday morning, March 1, 1976, Rev. Watkins relinquished his duties as Pastor and went triumphantly to be with God. On Saturday, March 6, 1976, Rev. Watkins was eulogized by his long-time classmate and friend, Rev. Leonard G. Carr of the Vine Memorial Baptist Church, Philadelphia, Pa. Many clergy and laypersons with whom Rev. Watkins had worked over the years were

in attendance. At the time of his death, it was noted that he held Pastor's record longer than anyone in the Delaware Valley. Rev. Watkins served in many organizations, i.e., Honorary Moderator of the New Hope Association; active member of the Pennsylvania Baptist Convention; Director of the Foreign Mission Drive of the Delaware Valley; Treasurer of the Cobs Creek District of the Pennsylvania Congress of Christian Education; member of the Board of Trustees of the Camping Foundation of the Eastern District Congress of Christian Education; member of the Baptist Ministers Conference of Philadelphia and Vicinity; past President of Camp Hope. He was also a Phi Beta Sigma fraternity member, an honorary member of the Pan African Federation Organization, and numerous other local and national organizations.

On March 8, 1976, a Joint Board meeting was held to discuss leadership procedures. At this meeting, by majority vote, the Chairman of the Board of Deacons, Deacon Elzie Stephens would be the Moderator of the Church. In his absence, the Vice Chairman, Deacon Grady Sales, would moderate. Rev. Charles Cunningham and Rev. Alexander Thompson would preside over the pulpit and honor outside engagements. Rev. Cunningham would not accept a salary but did accept one special collection each month. At a called business meeting held on March 15, 1976, the financial status of the Church was discussed. Following this discussion, Mrs. Amy Alexander motioned that the records would show the Church to be solvent and financially stable at the time of Rev. Watkin's death. A unanimous vote carried this motion. Also, at this meeting, the welfare of Mrs. Watkins was discussed, and a motion was duly made and carried that Mrs. Mary E. Watkins be given the salary that Rev. Watkins would have received in the form of a pension. The Church, also by a majority vote, agreed that Mrs. Watkins could remain in the parsonage indefinitely or until she decided otherwise. On March 22, 1976, the Church Officers notified Mrs. Watkins of the action taken by the Church on her behalf.

Mrs. Mary E. Watkins was the first woman of color to graduate from Temple University College of Pharmacy and operated a pharmacy at Clifton & Linden Avenues. She was the Director of the senior choir for many years, helped to organize the annual Women's Day, and was a member of several clubs Mrs. Watkins remained in the parsonage until November 1977.

At the June 29, 1976, business meeting of the Church, it was recommended that the Deacons appoint a Nominating Committee to recommend persons for a Pulpit Committee. The Committee was appointed at a business meeting on September 7, 1976. Mrs. Louella V. Ward was elected Chairperson. At this meeting, Rev. Charles Cunningham was elected Acting Pastor of the Church.

On Sunday, September 15, 1976, the Darby Township Board of Commissioners dedicated a memorial plaque in Conway Park in Pastor Watkin's memory. At the annual meeting in January 1977, Mrs. Lucille Chavous asked permission to form a memorial club in Rev. Watkins's memory. Permission was granted on March 5, 1977. On the 3rd Sunday in April 1977, the following officers of the Club were installed along with others: Mrs. Lucille Chavous, Executive Director, Dea. George Eldridge, Jr., President; Mrs. Violet Stephens, Vice-President; Ms. Deborah Hanna, Secretary; Mr. Roger Norman, Treasurer; Mrs. Cordelia Brooks, Business Manager.

In later years the name was changed to B.W. Watkins Scholarship Ministry. To better define the purpose of the Club, its primary focus would be to provide financial assistance to deserving collegebound students from the church membership. The focus later changed to support students seeking to achieve other paths of higher learning. Mainly the funds to support this ministry were acquired by

catering banquets, repasts, birthday parties, baby showers, wedding receptions, fashion shows, and other functions in the Agape Room of the Church. Church members also donated through their weekly offerings.

From 1977 with the help of our Church, community, family, and friends, the B.W. Watkins Scholarship Ministry has given aid to more than 598 students totaling approximately $718,800, which was made possible under the leadership of five presidents: the late Deacon George Eldridge, Jr., Sisters Elline Hanna-Thornton, Cordelia Gale-Thompson, LaTrisha Simminger, and the current ministry leader, Joyce Barnes. The ministry has undertaken the task of perpetuating a living memorial to a man who influenced and shaped the lives of many.

In early 1977, Mr. George Bennett was commissioned to do a portrait of Rev. Watkins to be installed in the main Sanctuary. Ms. Mary Graham provided a snapshot she had taken shortly before the death of Rev. Watkins. Funds for this portrait were derived from proceeds from the 40th-Anniversary Banquet. The portrait unveiling was revealed during a memorial service on July 7, 1977, and the B.W. Watkins Memorial Scholarship Club compiled a beautiful memorial booklet.

On July 18, 1977, after much deliberation, the Pulpit Committee informed the membership by letter of their intent to present Rev. Jerry William Dailey as their first choice for the pastorate. At a special call meeting on August 23, 1977, by a vote of 213 to 4, the Church voted to extend a call to Rev. Dailey. The Pulpit Committee Members were Sisters Louella Ward, Clorine Saxton and Ora Eldridge; Deaconess’ Ruth Hanna and Marie White; Deacons Grady Sales, H. Earl Fisher and Howard White; and Rev. Alexander Thompson.

Rev. Dailey was baptized by his father, Rev. Charles B. Dailey, Pastor of the First Baptist Church of Oakland in Jacksonville, Florida. Rev. Dailey was licensed on August 19, 1973, and was ordained on February 8, 1976, both occurring at his father's Church. He attended the University of California at Berkeley on a Crown Zellerbach Foundation scholarship. In his junior year in California, he was an assistant to Rev. T. J. Prince at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. He was awarded a Bachelor of Science Degree from Bethune Cookman College in 1975. When Rev. Daily accepted the call to First African Baptist Church, he was a student at Eastern Baptist Theology Seminary in the Master of Divinity Program. He also served as an assistant to Rev. Dr. Frank B. Mitchell at Pinn Memorial Baptist Church, Philadelphia, Pa. The Rev. Dailey's grandfather and uncle were ministers.

Rev. Dailey assumed the pastorate of the Church officially on Sunday, October 4, 1977. A special dinner was held immediately following the morning worship service to introduce Rev. Jerry Dailey and his wife, Janice, to the membership, ministers, and friends from the neighboring churches. Rev. Dailey asked that his official installation be delayed until his father's health allowed him to participate. After a month of pre-installation services, Rev. Dailey was officially installed on Sunday, January 29, 1978, with his father; Rev. Charles B. Dailey delivering the installation sermon.

Rev. Dailey was a very enthusiastic and energetic pastor. He immediately began to reorganize the ongoing programs of the Church and introduce new ones. During this period, the front of the Sanctuary was renovated, placing the lectern in the center of the pulpit. The membership increased tremendously, and attendance at Sunday Worship and Prayer Services increased. At the annual church

conference held in January 1978, the Constitution and By-Laws were voted out by a majority vote. Also, at this meeting, Rev. Charles Cunningham was named "Minister of Visitation."

The giving level doubled during Rev. Dailey's tenure, and tithing was encouraged. Other activities included: Youth Ministry revitalized, Bus Ministry instituted, Telephone Ministry for sick and shut-in, and Dial-A-Prayer services. The Church joined the American Baptist Convention through the Philadelphia Baptist Association; Evening Communion Service was instituted; Re-affirmation of vows and a Children's Chapel were formed. Sister Hattie Moore asked and was granted permission to organize the Hospitality Club.

Rev. Frederick Randolph and his wife, Mrs. Emma Randolph, joined the Church in 1980 Approximately eight deacons were ordained; the senior choir and choir number two singing groups were merged and became the F.A.B.C. church choir under the direction of Mrs. Gloria Long; Mrs. Shirley Alexander organized the Angelic Choir; the J.W.D. Male Chorus was organized. Regular church office hours were established, and a full-time secretary was hired for the Pastor. The lower auditorium was renamed "The B.W. Watkins Fellowship Hall," and the B.W. Watkins Memorial Scholarship Club installed a plaque commemorating this later. Ms. Adele Carter was the first recipient of the Booker W. Watkins Memorial Scholarship. A Federal Credit Union was organized, a Library and Media Center were instituted, and a "Debt Free in 83" drive to burn the mortgage in 1983 was begun.

Rev. Dailey attracted many prominent professional Christian athletes from the Philadelphia Eagles football team. Several joined the membership. Rev. Herbert Lusk answered God's call to the ministry and was licensed and ordained by the Church. Dr. Michael Johnson, his wife Kay, and their children joined the membership, and Dr. Johnson became one of the ordained deacons. Dr. Johnson, a surgeon, gave up his medical practice in the United States to join the World Gospel Mission and set up a medical clinic in Kenya. Dr. Johnson, his wife Kay, and his four children served in Kenya for several years. Rev. Randolph was later installed as an Assistant Minister.

Rev. Dailey's tenure as Pastor brought about many positive changes in the Church. Historically, people are often resistant to change, and the Church is not exempt from this frailty. For the first time in the history of the Church, problems arose that the members were unable to settle through regular church procedures, and ultimately, the Church became involved in a court of law.

In June 1982, Rev. Dailey announced his interest in accepting a call to another church. He later informed the membership that his last Sunday in the pulpit would be the third Sunday in July 1982. An appreciation banquet was held in his honor following that morning service on the third Sunday. Following that morning service in July 1982, Rev. Dailey presented Rev. Frederick Randolph to the Church for a vote as Interim Pastor. A majority vote accepted Rev. Randolph. Rev Daily’s official pastorate ended on August 4, 1982. At a call meeting after Rev. Dailey's departure, the membership again voted to retain Rev. Randolph as the Interim Pastor and voted to amend the original Constitution and By-Laws. At this meeting, the Constitution and By-Laws Committee was nominated. Serving on the Committee were Trustee James Moore, Chairman, Trustee Samuel Alexander, Brother Kenneth Wharton, Brother Esdene Handsome, Sister Ruth Hanna, and Rev. Frederick Randolph. Upon completion of the amended Constitution and By-Laws, a meeting was held to present them to the Church. The Constitution and By-Laws were accepted by a majority vote of the members present and adopted on October 18, 1983

In late 1982, a pulpit committee was appointed, and Mrs. Ruth Brown was elected Chairperson. The pulpit committee presented its first-choice candidate for a vote in November 1983, and neither the first, second or third candidates of choice received the three-fourth vote needed to extend a call. At a later meeting, the existing pulpit committee was released from its assignment by a vote of the Church.

Rev. Randolph resigned as Interim Pastor in 1984. An appreciation banquet was held to honor his contribution during his tenure as Interim Pastor.

In 1984, another pulpit committee was elected by vote of the Church. Dea H. Earl Fisher chaired the new Committee. Also selected were Mrs. Dorothy Latney, Dea. George Eldridge, Lic. Anthony C. Hanna, Trustee Maurice DeBeary, Mrs. Ora Eldridge, Trustee Esdene Handsome, Trustee Thomas Whitsett, and Mrs. Dorothy Gaines.

In 1985, the Committee recommended Rev. Richard A. Dent to the Church as their candidate of choice for Pastor. The Church voted unanimously to extend the call to Rev. Richard A. Dent. After meeting the officials of the Church, Rev. Dent accepted the call to pastor First African Baptist Church. Rev. Richard A. Dent, his wife Mrs. Beatrice Dent, son Richard, III, and daughter Jennifer joined First African Baptist Church.

On Sunday, December 15, 1985, Installation services were held for Rev. Dent. and Rev. Dr. Wallace C. Smith, Pastor of the First Baptist Church, Nashville, Tennessee, was the installation Preacher. Rev. Dr. Albert F. Campbell, Pastor of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, Philadelphia, Pa., served as Worship Leader. Before being ordained to the Gospel Ministry, Pastor Dent served as a Deacon, Acting Chair of the Board of Trustees, and Administrative Assistant to the late Dr. M.M. Peace of the Monumental Baptist Church of Philadelphia, Pa.

Pastor Dent was the recipient of the prestigious Benjamin E. Mays Fellowship for Ministerial Study; awarded a Masters of Divinity Degree from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary in December 1984 and a Doctor of Divinity Degree from Eastern Theological Seminary on May 23, 1998. Rev. Richard Dent is a member of the Baptist Ministers' Conference of Philadelphia and Vicinity and the Missionary Baptist Pastors' Conference of Philadelphia and Vicinity. Pastor Dent is a native of Augusta, Georgia. He graduated from Voorhees High School of Denmark, S.C., attended St. Augustine College, Raleigh, N.C., and was awarded a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical and Health Education. Rev. Dent also earned a Master's Degree in Urban Education from Antioch Graduate School of Education, a Supervisory Certificate from Temple University, and his elementary and secondary Principal's Certificate from Cheyney State University. An educator, he held the position of Instructional Supervisor of Physical and Health Education with the Philadelphia School District for 20 years, retiring in 1991. Pastor Dent is a member of the Kappa Delta Psi Honor Society, a life member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, and numerous other national, state, and community organizations.

Rev Dr. Richard A. Dent, whose password is "Joy," is a very charismatic and powerful preacher. Under his pastoral leadership, the Church experienced a spiritual and physical renaissance, and church membership and attendance increased He also changed the clubs to ministries. Financial support to the Church for missions increased; church facilities were renovated, including the addition of four rooms to the rear of the Church to provide more space for the Sunday School, a Choir Room, and a

Nursery. A minivan for the disabled and a 50-passenger luxury bus was purchased; the mortgage burned, and $100,000 indebtedness was satisfied in less than forty months.

During this period of church revitalization, a computer system was installed; a new Roger organ was purchased; a state-of-the-art Sound System was installed throughout the Church, and a closed-circuit television was installed in the lower auditorium to accommodate the congregational overflow. Four ministers, Rev. Melvin McAllister, Rev. Anthony Hanna, Rev. Ralph Benjamin, and Rev. Gregory Horton, Sr., were ordained to the Gospel Ministry. Also, thirty-one (31) additional deacons were ordained.

In 1986, the Diners Club was initiated to provide lunch for the members of First African Baptist Church between morning and afternoon Worship Services under the leadership of Trustee George (Poppy) Eldridge. Other leaders of the Club were Sister Clorine Saxon and Sister Viola Overby and her family until this was discontinued. After leaving the Diners Club, Brother George Eldridge, Sr. made "souse" at Thanksgiving and Christmas. The proceeds from the sale of this delicacy were donated to B.W. Watkins Scholarship Ministry. Later, Trustee George Eldridge, Sr., along with the members of the B. W. Watkins Scholarship Ministry, started to provide catering services for banquets and special activities held at the Church and for outside organizations with special programs.

In 1988, in appreciation for her years of service and continued support of the Church and its programs, a library was dedicated to Sister Mary E. Watkins. It became the "Mary E. Watkins Library and Media Center," now located in the Church Annex.

Additional programs were instituted to keep up with the needs of the congregation and community. Namely, Youth Fellowship Project: The youth of the Church, under the auspices of Brother Alvin Styer and Youth Advisors, provided food and clothing for the homeless in Philadelphia: Project Share: a food program headed by Deaconess Berneastine Hammond and a cross-section of the membership, provided a box of food to the congregation and others in the community at a nominal fee each month. Sister Beverly Donaldson, President of the Heart in Hand Ministry, introduced a nutritional and lowcost food program for the needy that was open to the Church and community every week. Youth Retreat: Every August, Youth Advisors, and youth of the Church are taken on an overnight retreat away from the Church. Additional programs were the Holiday Feeding Program, where Thanksgiving baskets were given to anyone in need: Tape Ministry, which provided tapes of our worship services to the sick and shut-in and college students: Mentorship Program: college students are paired with recent graduates who offered support during their period of adjustment.

A Women's Fellowship Project was organized and adopted a shelter for the less fortunate. It provided clothing and other personal items: A Day Care Program for Pre-K children was established: Camp Joy: This camp was headed by teachers of the Church. Prison Ministry: Under the direction of the ministers, deacons, and lay members of the congregation, which included both male and female prisons. These new programs were in addition to the ongoing working ministries of the Church.

The parsonage was renovated to accommodate the many outreach programs to provide additional offices and storage space. In 1994, because of the outreach programs, this site became eligible for funding to become a non-profit charitable organization providing service to the community and was named Neighbor-to-Neighbor Community Development Corporation. Rev. Melvin McAllister was appointed as the Director.

Because of the continued growth of the membership, it became apparent that further expansion would be needed to accommodate this growth and provide additional outreach services to the congregation and community (First African was always known as the community church). To this end, a congregational survey was initiated to determine if the anticipated expansion program would reflect the congregation's needs. In May 1994, contact was made with the American Baptist Extension Corporation (ABEC) regarding financing for this project. The Church was informed that specific requirements would have to be met before the Corporation would commit to such a project. One of the requirements would be that a certain amount of money would have to be deposited with ABEC before they agree to finance the expansion project. Also, it would be necessary for them to monitor the finances coming into the church treasury and those being paid out.

To meet these requirements, Pastor Dent, in early 1994, called a meeting of a cross-section of the membership. At that time, he reverently spoke with great enthusiasm of his Vision from God regarding the funding for the needed expansion of the Church. Several groups were initiated at this meeting: Survey Committee, Publicity/Capital Fund Campaign Committee, Finance Committee, and Construction Committee. The purpose of these committees was to determine ways to accomplish God's Vision to meet the needs of the congregation and community.

As a result of many meetings and prayers, the Nehemiah Project was initiated. The membership was asked to make pledges in various amounts for three years. These monies would be required for a down payment to ABEC to borrow the needed funds for the project. The members of the Nehemiah Building Council were: Rev. Richard A. Dent, Pastor, Rev. Melvin McAllister, Co-Chairman; Trustee James Moore, Co-Chairman; Trustee Estelle Izzard, Secretary; Sister Deborah Wray, Church Clerk; Rev. Alexander Thompson, Rev. Leroy Johnson, Dea. George Eldridge, Jr., Trustee Thomas Whitsett, Trustee Maurice DeBeary, Sister Beatrice Dent, Sister Janie Strong, Sister Louella Ward, Dea. Esdene Handsome, Trustee Samuel Alexander, Sister Carole Taliaferro, Dea. David Thorpe, Sister Sonja Benjamin, Bro. Henry Carr, Sister Wanda Pannell, Sister Kathleen Williams, Sister Deborah Burton, Sister Gloria Long, Sister JoAnne Wilder, Sister Laura Dawson, Sister Beverly Donaldson, Sister Sandra Terry, and Deacon James Madison.

In January 1995, Gary W. Sharp, A.I.A. of Dimensional Dynamics Architects and Planners of Chadds Ford, Pa., presented plans to the Joint Boards for the proposed expansion. Initially, it was anticipated that an Annex to the present building would be expanded to utilize the existing parking lot adjacent to the Church, after which the Sanctuary would be enlarged. The anticipated Annex, renovation, and site work costs were $2,770.000. In anticipation of using the parking lot adjacent to the Church for the expansion, it was determined that it would be necessary to find other areas for parking. The Church was able to purchase two lots directly across from the present Church. The cost of the demolition of two houses and the paving of the lot was approximately $300,000. The anticipated price for both projects was approximately $3,408,000.

Before the end of the three-year fundraising project, Pastor Dent and the Joint Boards were informed that it would be as costly to build the Annex and enlarge the Sanctuary as it would be to build an entirely new church. In keeping with this information, it was decided to pursue the building of a new edifice. These new plans would necessitate purchasing new land for this building. Again, the Church was able to buy properties diagonally in front of the Church for the new edifice. However, due to

opposition from some of the neighborhood residents concerned with inadequate parking, the zoning board denied building permits twice. Before leaving office, President Bill Clinton signed a new Federal Law, the "Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act of September 2000," which states that "governments may not enact or enforce a land-use regulation that imposes a substantial burden on the religious exercise of a person or religious institution unless the government can prove the plans pose a threat, such as to public safety, to the community." As a result of this law, the Church's attorney Kenneth D. Kynett went to court, and due to this new law, a building permit was issued at the cost of $200,000.

With the financial assistance of Citizens Bank of Pennsylvania, on May 4, 2002, First African Baptist Church held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new 44,000-square- foot church complex that will serve its 1,200-member congregation. The ceremonies included: Pastor Richard A. Dent, Trustee Steven Bradley, Deacon George Eldridge, Jr., and Mr. Stephen D. Steinour, Chairman and C.E.O. of Citizens Bank. Also participating were four of the congregation's Senior members, namely, Sister Mamie Smith, Sister Ella Gale, Deaconess Viola Tribbey, and Deaconess Olivia Harris. The project took nine years to plan and was financed with a 3.9 million loan from Citizens Bank. The Builder was Target Construction Company.

First African Baptist Church was built on a site diagonally across from its current location. Construction for the new First African Baptist Church began on August 12, 2002. One of the most important facts regarding the construction of the new Church was the vision from Pastor Dent to have the original stained glass from the old Church installed in the new Church edifice. The stained glass eventually became the official logo for First African Baptist Church. Brother James Moore headed the church Building Council and it was anticipated that the Church would be completed by May 2003. Once the congregation moved to the new edifice, the present church building was to become a Family Life Center to address community problems and provide needed space for the ongoing programs.

October 1, 2002, Pastor Dent sent a letter to the following members: Deacon Richard Bagley, Deacon Thomas Davis, and Sis. Joyce Stewart, Sis. Bertha Forman, Deacon William Hanna, Sis. JoAnne Wilder, Sis. Denise Baker, Sis. Gloria Long, Sis. Andrea McAllister, Sis. Phyllis Taylor, Sis. Marsha Moore, Deacon George Eldridge, Sis. Mary Barr, Sis. Paulette Richardson, Trustee Cordy Gale- Thompson, Rev. Gregory Horton, Rev. Melvin McAllister, Deacon H. Earl Fisher, Sis. Janie Strong, Bro. Steve Cromity, Sis. Geraldine Jones, Sis. Judy Bennett, Sis. Kathy Williams, Sis. Louella Ward, Trustee Steven Bradley, Bro. Maurice DeBeary, Sis. Carol Taliaferro, Sis. LaTrisha Simminger and Trustee Raymond Pollard.

The members were asked to serve on a Centennial Anniversary Committee to plan and help implement ideas for a yearlong celebration. Pastor Dent stated that he would like to have the "sons" of the Church, namely, Rev Alexander W. Thompson, Sr., Reverend Herbert Lusk, and Reverend Anthony Hanna, return to preach during the week of the centennial celebration. Also participating in the week of services will be Rev. Margaret Quarcoo, Rev. Ralph Benjamin, and Rev. Gregory Horton. Sr. Pastor Dent also asked Deacon Richard Bagley and Trustee Cordy Gale-Thompson to chair this Committee, with Rev. Melvin McAllister serving as the liaison between the Committee and himself.

The first meeting of the Centennial Committee was held on October 22, 2002. At this meeting various committees were organized, and many suggestions were made regarding the activities for the yearlong celebration. At the November meeting, Brother Maurice DeBeary and Trustee Raymond Pollard were

appointed to the finance committee. The gift to the Church was the vision of Trustee Cordy GaleThompson, who presented her idea to the 100th Centennial Committee. On behalf of the Committee, she was honored to pen the script on the Dedication stone. The project was named “Faith Orchard" by Rev. Melvin McAllister and was chaired by Sister Carol Taliaferro. Members and ministries were encouraged to purchase a leaf for $100.00 for themselves or in memory of a loved one. The Faith Orchard was to be installed in a strategic area in the new Church, and the project began on the first Sunday in February 2003. Rev. Ralph Benjamin announced that Sunday, February 23, 2003, would typically be the Church Anniversary Sunday. In keeping with this celebration, a presentation was given by Sis. Daisy Century, along with presentations by the Mime and Praise Dancers. Bishop David Evans of the Bethany Baptist Church of Lindenwold, N.J., was the guest minister.

A Centennial fellowship with the churches that have celebrated their centennial year was chaired by Deacon George Eldridge. The guest churches who fellowshipped with our Church each fourth Wednesday evening were: Mt. Zion C.M.E. Church, Sharon Hill, Pa., January 22, 2003; Shiloh Baptist Church, Philadelphia, Pa., February 26, 2003; Union Baptist Church, Philadelphia, Pa., March 26, 2003; St. Paul Baptist Church, Philadelphia, Pa., April 23, 2003; St. Daniels United Methodist Church, Chester, Pa., May 28, 2003; Second Baptist Church, Wayne, Pa., June 25, 2003; Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, Philadelphia, Pa., October 30, 2003; Enon Tabernacle Church, Philadelphia, Pa., November 19, 2003; First African Baptist Church, Philadelphia, Pa., December 17, 2003.

Sis. Janie Strong chaired the Centennial Church Celebration for the Banquet on November 2, 2003, at the Springfield Country club after the morning worship service. Rev. Jerry W. Dailey was the guest minister for the morning worship service, the climax of a week of services. The Banquet was a formal occasion, and the Citizens Bank donated $1500 toward the Banquet.

On Sunday, May 2003, Deacon Esdene Handsome, Sr. announced to the congregation that due to the inclement weather in the fall of 2002 and continuing to the present time, the work on the new Church had been significantly delayed. He also informed the congregation that there were only enough funds to complete the two upper levels of the Church, and an additional $3,500,000 was needed to complete the basement of the Church. In June a plea was made to the membership asking 300 families to give a sacrificial donation of $1,000 to this deficit that would be an ongoing effort, and work would continue. With God's Blessings, the anticipated occupancy date will be later in 2003. Given this unexpected additional expense, some of the planned projects for the centennial celebration would be delayed As we move forward in the coming years, we should strive for "spiritual excellence" by renewing our commitment to God through love and service to our fellow man. By so doing, we will honor the legacy and meet the challenge of our predecessors.

On the tenth day of January 2004, Pastor Dent and the officers joyfully led the congregation into its new Sanctuary, where we worshiped and praised a living Saviour. Additional programs were instituted that demonstrated love, sharing, and caring for the congregation and the entire community. These include Grief Ministry: Rev. Ralph Benjamin; Generation II Generation: Deacon James Swindell; Men's Ministry: Bro. Gary Bennett; Prison Ministry: Rev. Margaret Quarcoo; Women's Ministry: Sis. Beatrice Dent; Transportation Ministry: Deacon William O. Hanna: Genesis I: Sis. Sylvia Higgins; Genesis I: Sis. Patricia Epps; New Revelation: Sis. Shirley Officer; Nursing Home Visitation: Sis. Carol Smack; Praise Dancers: Sis. Cheryl Adair Wilkins; The Star: Sis. Andrea Perry; Speechless I: Sis. Carole Taliaferro and

Bro. Miguel Osborne Speechless II: Sis. Carole Taliaferro and Bro. Miguel Osborne: Caring Ministry: Sis. Linda Eldridge.

In 2017 Trustee Ministry Leader, Terence Brooks announced to the congregation that we received an amazingly generous, anonymous financial blessing of $3.1 million to pay off the Church's mortgage. To celebrate and praise God for His goodness, we ceremonially burned the mortgage during our 114th Church Anniversary Service with joyful and thankful hearts!

In 2018, the Transportation Ministry retired the three church vans and replaced all three (one van dedicated to serving the physically disabled). After several years of serving the congregation, our Credit Union evolved into the Ministry Office, where they manage the finances of the Church's ministries. Also, we were blessed to obtain full ownership of the Word of Life Bookstore. On November 17, 2019, the congregation had a ribbon-cutting ceremony dedicating the Reverend Dr. Richard A. & Sister Beatrice C. Dent Library.

After 34 faithful years of leadership at First African Baptist Church, Reverend Dr. Richard A. Dent officially retired on December 31, 2019 and the Church bestowed upon him the honorary title of Pastor Emeritus of First African Baptist Church for his distinguished lengthy years of service.

In January 2020, at a Sunday Morning Worship Service, Deacon Baines announced that the Joint Officiary unanimously voted to appoint Reverend Beverly S. Hudson as the Interim Pastor.

In early 2020 a Constitution and By-Laws Committee was selected to revise and amend the By-Laws adopted on April 19, 1988. The committee members were Deacons David Jay Thorpe, Chairperson, Charles E. Bradford, Joe C. Burch, Kevin Jasey, Charles E. Kent, Samuel Sudler, Jr., Sisters Cordelia GaleThompson, Asiha Monet Braxton Garvin, Deborah Wray, and LaTosha Wray. The Committee met for approximately 16 months and had the document reviewed by legal counsel from the Philadelphia Baptist Association because it would be a legal and binding document. The Constitution and By-Laws were adopted on July 10, 2021.

Around Mid-March 2020 the country was mandated with restrictions because of concerns about the spread of the Covid-19 Virus. Unfortunately, also during this period, there was division within the Church due to differences in philosophies among leadership and some members. Also, for the second time in the history of First African Baptist Church, we were faced with a legal situation that ended up in a court of law.

Reverend Hudson was committed to ensuring we continued to be faithfully connected and committed to God's Word. Church Leadership discontinued In-person Worship Service. First African Baptist Church transitioned to Live-streaming Worship Service with the assistance of our video ministry and instituted video conferencing via zoom and conference calls for Bible Study, Prayer Service, Sunday school, and other activities.

As soon as the vaccines became available, the Neighbor-to-Neighbor Community Development Corporation was the first to spearhead the administration of lifesaving vaccines to 250 people. Afterward, First African followed to provide more vaccines to more residents.

During this period, a Pastoral Search Committee was appointed to start the process of filling the position of Pastor. The Pastoral Search Committee consisted of Deacons Kenneth Baines, Nelson Brockenborough, Willie Oliphant, Christopher Banton, Deaconess Tracy Jasey, Trustees Barbara Wells and Janet McDaniel, and Dr. Hope Dameron, Chairperson.

The Pastoral Search Committee presented five candidates to the congregation. They introduced the candidates to the congregation via zoom. Each candidate taught Bible Study and preached for Sunday Worship Service via zoom and at an outside tent Worship Service.

The Search Committee utilized an independent company, "Election Buddy" L.L.C., for the process of voting. The company required voting via email, text, or phone. There was a survey distributed to the congregation to decide their ranking of the four final Pastoral Candidates because one candidate rescinded his candidacy. The results from that survey determined the congregation’s 1st, 2nd, and 3rd choice.

Election Buddy was utilized again for the vote of a Pastor. The company again required voting via email, text, or phone. Voting was open for the 1st candidate from November 16, 2021- December 7, 2021. The 1st candidate did not receive a three-fourth majority vote. A special church meeting was called to inform the congregation that they would vote for the 2nd candidate. Voting for the 2nd candidate was open from March 7, 2022 – March 14, 2022. On March 17, 2022, the Committee reported that Rev. Dr. Eric D. Jackson, Sr received a majority vote.

On Sunday, July 10, 2022, the Installation service was held for Rev. Dr. Eric D. Jackson, Sr. Bishop Anthony R. Obey, Pastor of Seniors, Resurrection Baptist Church, San Antonio/Schertz, TX was the Installation Preacher. Deaconess Jervonda Banton served as Worship Leader. After service, the Search Committee hosted an installation luncheon at the Drexelbrook, Drexel Hill, PA.

Dr. Jackson is a native of Alexandria, Louisiana. He’s married to Rev. Evette, and they have two sons, Omari, and Eric, II.

After serving for several years, Pastor Jackson was licensed and ordained at Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church, in Norcross, Georgia, by Bishop Dr. William Sheals. He went on to serve as Assistant to the Pastor, Youth Pastor, and Singles’ Pastor at Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church, in Atlanta.

He was the founding pastor of the Greater Heights Christian Church in Lithonia, Georgia, where he served for eight years. After leaving Georgia, he served as the senior pastor of the Main Post Chapel Gospel Congregation in Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Prior to 2014, Dr. Jackson resided in Ewa Beach, Hawaii (the Island of Oahu), while serving a tour of duty at Schofield Barracks and Fort Shafter. He then moved to University Place, and served for six years as senior pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Tacoma. Additionally, Pastor Jackson’s ministry has reached abroad, as well. He took several pilgrimages throughout Israel and did missionary work in Haiti. He also served on several boards and is the past president of Associated Ministries’ Board of Directors.

In 2003, Pastor Jackson earned a Master of Divinity degree (cum laude), with a concentration in Psychology of Religion and Pastoral Care and completed additional course work in Homiletics, at Morehouse School of Religion at the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) in Atlanta. Previously, in 1992, he received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Computer Information

Systems from the University of Louisiana and graduated from Peabody Magnet High School. Understanding the necessity of education and preparation, Pastor Jackson returned to the academy, and in May 2012, he earned a Doctor of Ministry degree (summa cum laude) at the ITC, where he specialized in Pastoral Counseling.

Additionally, he spent over 33 years in the military - over 29 years as an officer and retired in June 2019. From 2007 to 2008, Pastor Jackson completed a tour of duty in Iraq, where he ministered to hundreds of Soldiers on a weekly basis and trained over 50 ministers - two of which were licensed into the Gospel ministry. Upon completion of his tour, he became an Army Chaplain and continues to minister today. He has also served in this capacity in the local chapter of his fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., where he’s a Life Member. Likewise, he was certified by the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police as a police chaplain.

Over the years, Pastor Jackson’s ministry has been heavily involved in the lives of the youth and unmarried adults and taught countless retreats – for couples and singles. Beyond that, he has developed a seven-phase series of Ministers’ Development Training courses. In 2001, after having trained more than 100 ministers, Pastor Jackson launched Eric Jackson Ministries.

Pastor Jackson is a poet and the author of Good News from On High! His personal mission is to educate, empower, and encourage all people - both young and mature, “churched” and “unchurched,” laypersons and ministers. With such a love for people, Pastor Jackson has devoted his life to God’s service and people. This man of God is a prophetic pastor, passionate leader, social activist, and eloquent orator and educator, engaged in preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ, fighting against racial injustice; committed to economic justice and empowerment in under-served communities and touching and transforming the lives of the disenfranchised.

Pastor Jackson’s motto is “preaching to encourage…and teaching to empower.” This is a goal he sets for reaching God’s people, so they are spiritually equipped. Above all...Pastor Dr. Eric D. Jackson is spirit-filled. He loves the Lord, is crucified with Him!

Prior to Rev. Jackson's installation at First African Baptist Church, he and his wife, Rev. Evette were eager to begin his ministry and to reconcile the Church. On August 18, 2022 Rev Jackson held a Reconciliation and Healing" Listening Session in an effort to help the church begin to heal. The first Men’s Fellowship was held on August 27, 2022, “Beaus and Bows," where the men and young boys learned how to tie bow ties. He also encouraged the men and women of the congregation to make their yearly medical appointments. In recognition of Breast Cancer Month, he asked the men to do 25 push-ups for 25 days and for Men’s Health Awareness Month, Rev. Jackson suggested that the men refrain from cutting their facial hair.

Rev. Jackson and Rev. Evette were excited about our 120th Church Anniversary and began plans for the Church Event. The 120th Church Anniversary Banquet was held on February 17, 2023, at the Springfield Country Club. The 120th Anniversary Core Committee Members were Rev. Evette Jackson, Chairperson; Rev. Dr. Eric D. Jackson, Brother Gregory Eldridge; Sisters Deborah Moore, LaTrisha Simminger, Barbara Guions, Jacqueline Castagna, Lisa Eley, and Madison Mitchell, Deaconess Ramona Oliphant, Deacon Kevin Youngblood, and Trustee Stacy Cann. God is good!

Pastors of First African Baptist Church

1904 – 1909 Reverend Richard Raine

1909 – 1918 Reverend C.T. Wilcher

1909 – 1909 Reverend McAllen

1909 – 1909 Reverend W.E. Scott

1918 – 1935 Reverend J. Lincoln Lewis

1935 – 1936 Rev. James Arnold, Interim Pastor

1936 – 1977 Reverend Booker W. Watkins

Reverend Beverly S. Hudson

Reverend Evette L. Jackson

Reverend Adele Jones

Dr. Stephen Jones

1976 – 1977 Reverend Charles Cunningham, Interim Pastor

1977 – 1982 Reverend Jerry William Dailey

1982 – 1985 Reverend Frederick Randolph, Interim Pastor

1985 – 2019 Reverend Dr. Richard A. Dent

2020 – 2022 Reverend Beverly S. Hudson, Interim Pastor

2022 – Reverend Dr. Eric D. Jackson, Sr.

Current Associate Ministers

Previous Associate Ministers

Reverend Henry Ausbury

Reverend Ralph Benjamin

Reverend J. B. Brandon

Reverend Jerome Burton

Reverend Tariq Craig

Reverend Robert Cunningham

Reverend Tracie Gatewood

Reverend Anthony Hanna

Reverend Tommie Hightower

Minister Dennis M. Holloman

Reverend Gregory Horton

Reverend Jack Johnson

Minister Wendell Jones

Reverend Rodney King

Reverend Horace Kinlaw

Reverend Herb H. Lusk

Rev. Dr. Melvin McAllister

Reverend Margaret Quarcoo

Reverend Edward Richardson

Reverend Allen Roberts

Reverend Reginald Stevens

Reverend Alexander Thompson

Reverend George Thompson

Reverend Sharon D. White

Reverend Gary Williams

Reverend Kenneth J D Wilson

The Vision Continues with the Many Ministries at First African

Joint Officiary

Deacons Ministry

Trustees Ministry

Administrative Staff

Church Secretary

Church Clerks

Spiritual Education

Christian Education

Church School and Children’s Church

Family Bible Study

New Member Discipleship

Vacation Bible School

Young Adult Bible Study

Youth Ministries

B.R.O.T.H.E.R.S. Mentoring (Brothers Realizing Our True Heritage Relationship and Spirituality)

C.H.E.R.I.S.H. Teen Girls Book Club (Christians Holding Every Reading in Sacred Hope)

G.U.E.S.S. Mentoring (Girls Understanding

Education and Success in Society)

Nursery Ministry

Youth Council Ministry

Youth Workers Ministry

Audio, Video & Tape Ministry

Beautification Ministry

Music Ministries

Angelic Choir

Men’s Choir

Sanctuary Choir

Voices of Joy

Youth Choir

Praise Ministries

J.U.M.P. (Just Using My Praise) Mime Ministry

Praise & Worship Teams – Adult, Youth & Young Adult

Wings of Praise Adult Dance Ministry

Word to Life Drama Ministry

Youth Praise Dancers Little & Total Praise Dancers

Ministries of Service

B.W. Watkins Memorial Scholarship Ministry

Ministry Office (formerly the Credit Union)

Deaconess Ministry

Emergency Food Cupboard (Heart in Hand)

Flower Guild Ministry

Healthcare Ministry

Healthy Eating Ministry

Hospitality Ministry

Library Ministry

Angel Tree

Bereavement Ministry

Chosen 300 Ministry

Comfort Care Support Ministry

Marriage Enrichment Ministry

Men's Ministry

P.H.I.T. (Physically Healthy & Inspired Temples)

Rose of Sharon Missionary Ministry

Security & Parking Ministry

S.W.A.G. Young Adult Ministry

(Soldiers Walking According to God)

Transportation Ministry

Ushers Ministry (Senior, Junior & Youth)

Women’s Ministry

Word of Life Bookstore

Outreach Ministries

Thanksgiving Caring and Sharing

The Joy of Giving

Women of Faith Support Ministry

Acknowledgements

The early history was derived from church records of Mother Annie Downing, Mr. William C. Moore, personal interviews with Mother Bessie Lee, Mrs. Rebecca Robinson, Mrs. Cassie Branson, Mrs. Kathryn Beverly, Mr. Emory Whitehead, and Mrs. Paralee Christmas. (Review of records and interviews by Sis. Louella Ward)