Greater St John Missionary Baptist Church celebrates its 145th anniversary

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) – Past, current and future members of Greater Saint John Missionary Baptist Church came together to celebrate a significant milestone: 145 years of service to the church.

Pastor Herbert T. Brown has been a lifelong member of Greater Saint John Missionary Baptist. “When your mommy is pregnant and brings you to this church, you’re here for the rest of your life,” he said.

The church has seen many changes over the years. “In 1915, we moved to 12th Avenue. On June 4, 2000, we moved into this building,” Brown recalls.

Brown expressed his gratitude for his long association with the church. “I thank God for allowing me to be here for 76 years,” he said.

The road has not always been easy, however. “There have been many ups and downs over the last 145 years,” Pastor Brown acknowledged. “Membership numbers have increased. Some people have gotten angry and left. Some have come back, some have not. A lot of that is part of the church. You just have to deal with it.”

Geraldine White, who has been attending the church for 92 years, shared her thoughts on the anniversary celebration. “When I heard they were going to celebrate, the first thing I said was, ‘I’ve been attending for 145 years,'” White said.

As a former church historian, White has a deep understanding of both the present and the past. “I’ve been in this congregation my whole life,” she noted. Reflecting on recent losses, she added, “We’re only just getting over the grief of our pianist passing away.”

But the memory of those who died is kept alive in the church. “You must not forget those who brought you here. They are part of our history, a part of us,” said Pastor Brown.

Pastor Brown is proud of the church’s humble beginnings. “They lived in huts, and the churches they built were like huts. It wasn’t until 1915 that we moved to a better building,” he said.

Pastor Brown is hopeful about the future. “I hope I can still be there to celebrate the 150th anniversary,” he said.

The church celebrated this milestone with music and food, and a special Sunday service is planned to continue the celebrations. The entire congregation is invited.

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