A legacy of faith, service, and community.
From a bush harbor on the Mississippi state line to a thriving multi-campus church family — this is the story of Brown.
In 1882, a new congregation gathered.
The late Reverend Harry Body was the first pastor of the new congregation at Brown Missionary Baptist Church. Initially, they held their worship services in a bush harbor near the existing church cemetery. Later they were able to erect a log cabin.
From this site, Pastor Body — with the assistance and dedication of his Officers, Mothers, Missionaries, and members — erected their first frame structure on the corner of Swinnea and Stateline Road, where it has remained ever since.
Builders of a foundation.
Among the first elected officers were Brothers Ernest L. Garth, Sr., Rayfield Flynn, Pearce Holmes, Charles Smith, Sr., Wade Smith, and William Smith, Sr. These men worked tirelessly, making sure that the foundation of Brown Baptist Church was not only materially strong, but spiritually strong as well.
We are now privileged to worship and work in a church that has been erected through the dedication and devotion of these Christian soldiers.
A legacy of love, labor, and loyalty.
The women of the early church were equally instrumental. The first church mothers — Sisters Alice Harris, Hattie Holmes, and Isabell Smith — contributed to the building of the first frame church and left a legacy that was echoed by every generation of mothers who followed.
Mothers Annie Davis, Bell Herron, Maggie Jones, Leona Polk, Agnes Smith, Annie Smith, and Lizzie Smith continued to fortify and sustain the congregation with prayers, love, and dedication.
One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.
You're invited into the next chapter.
The story of Brown is still being written. Come worship with us and become part of a legacy of faith.