(click photos to enlarge)

 

1947 – Present

Rev. J. T. Freeman becomes the leader of the flock;
It is during his leadership
that the present edifice is built.

Committeemen who negotiated the purchasing of the site for the building, which is presently located on Twelfth Avenue, included Brothers T. S. Reid, W. H. Allen, C. H. Fields, John Bowers, Thornton Blackman, K. W. Williams and K. P. Bradford.

Groundbreaking ceremonies take place on March 27, 1949, with Rev. J. R. Powell, pastor of Mount Zion Baptist Church in Paris, TN, preaching the sermon.

“Pay as you go” plan is adopted.  Other church leaders playing a significant role in the building of the church include Brothers C. A. Jones, J. W. Claybrook, E. W. Williams, Robert Carr and the efficient church secretary Sis. Dorothy Nell Jones.

At this special time, in the history of our church, we pause to remember and give recognition to those who established the formerly known as Greater Sixth Street
Baptist Church, and now, known as the New Abundant Life Church.

We remember the founding of this church by Rev. J. T. Freeman and those who worked with him, Rev. T. R. Coleman and Sis. Dorothy Jones-Ivory.
It was originally called the Apostolic Missionary Baptist Church.

Rev. Freeman—great pastor, businessman and civil rights activist

1957 – 1963

Rev. W. A. Owens accepts the call to become the leader of the Morning Star Baptist Church congregation and proves to be a great pastor and leader in the short period that he is there.

1963 – 2009

The fifth Sunday in March, Rev. John H. Mathis preaches his first sermon at Morning Star.

Under his leadership, numerous innovations and organizations come into being. Much growth occurs.

A building that is located across the street from the church is purchased, renovated and is used by the entire community for special occasions.

2 church van is purchased.

Church pews are padded.

Men and Women’s Lounge areas are renovated.

Water fountains are installed.

New Marquee Purchased

New roof on Church and entire church renovated

New pews, Pulpit furniture added

God has granted Rev. Mathis forty-six years with the Morning Star congregation.

2009 – 2010

Rev. Johnny R. Turner, assistant pastor, accepted the role and proudly served as interim pastor while the church searched for a new pastor.

2010 – Present

Rev. Quill J. Brabham, Jr. was elected by the Morning Star members and accepted the call as the new pastor on April 30, 2010. Rev. Brabham preached his first sermon as the newly appointed pastor on May 9, 2010.

 

Under his leadership the newly renovated sanctuary (March 2009) was once again renovated along with the education bldg. due to the flood on May 1, 2010.

Praises to God on High – We praise your Holy Name, for You are so worthy to be praised!