Church History

The St. James Missionary Baptist Church was organized under the leadership of the late Rev. Archie J. White. The pastor, being new in the city and seeing the need for a place to worship for the community, successfully interested six persons in coming to the first service. The service was held in the Middle Point Community Center, and was called “The Middle Point Community Baptist Church.”

As the word spread, the congregation grew. They soon grew out of the limited facilities of the recreation center and purchased the property at 1738 LaSalle Avenue. In July 1948, the Church moved to its remodeled facility. The church changed its name to St. James Missionary Baptist Church.

With his wife, Leola, by his side, Pastor White struggled and the membership grew. At this time, the Lord blessed the congregation with property located at 1470 Hudson Avenue. On July 22, 1955, the church held its groundbreaking ceremony that resulted in the building of a new church home.

On Easter Sunday, April 21, 1957, the church membership marched from 1738 LaSalle to their new church facility--1470 Hudson Avenue. Pastor White was called to rest from his labor on October 29, 1973. Rev. Mack Campbell, who had faithfully assisted Rev. White for many years, was voted in as interim Pastor. In November of 1974, Rev. Mack Campbell was installed as Pastor.

During Rev. Campbell’s tenure, he met and married Sister Ethel Holmes, who worked diligently at his side. Sister Campbell served as Superintendent of the Sunday School as well as a Chairperson of the Deaconess Board and President of the Women’s Missionary Union.

Pastor Campbell retired in 1982, and served as Pastor Emeritus until his homegoing in August of 1990. In November of 1982, the church selected Rev. Alfred Patrick as the interim pastor. With his wife, Ruth, by his side, he gave the membership course to move forward until July 1984. Rev. Lamard Raven was called as pastor of St. James. Under his leadership, the church continued to move forward. In 1989, Rev. Kenneth Mackey was selected to serve as pulpit moderator, until a pastor could be called.

On October 15, 1989, Rev. Michael Shelly Williams was installed as Pastor, with his wife by his side, Patricia Ann Williams. In our pastor, Dr. Michael S. Williams, we are blessed with a bible scholar, preacher and teacher. There is much work to do in His vineyard, and by his grace, we will continue to move on.