Our History

Founding and Early Years (1895–1917)

The origins of First Baptist Church Gresham Road trace back to 1895, when a group of Christian brothers and sisters came together in a modest wooden building to form the First Baptist Church Reynoldstown.

Rev. Rufus Savage served as the church’s first pastor, guiding the congregation through its formative years. Under the leadership of Rev. Lonnie Jones, the church relocated from its initial wooden structure on Baptist Avenue—now known as Renfroe Street—to a basement on Kenyon Street in Reynoldstown.

By 1917, with Rev. C.C. Holt at the helm, the church transitioned once more, moving out of the basement and setting the stage for future growth.

Throughout the subsequent years, the church experienced continued progress under the stewardship of several pastors, including Rev. Louis Foster, Rev. A.L. Collins, and Rev. George. The 1940s marked a significant milestone as the church, led by the late Rev. J.S. Dixon, managed to clear all outstanding debts.

Rev. Henderson succeeded Rev. Dixon, followed by Rev. F.L. Taylor—a church member who, after being ordained, was elected pastor and served the congregation faithfully until his passing.

Growth and Leadership Transitions (1917–1969)

Rev. Marion Billups was next to serve, although his tenure was brief due to illness. In response, the membership prayed for divine guidance to send another pastor.

A New Chapter: Rev. E.J. Jester Sr. and Expansion (1969–1999)

On April 11, 1969, the prayers of the congregation were answered when Rev. E.J. Jester Sr. was appointed pastor. His leadership brought numerous spiritual and community-oriented accomplishments, including the church’s move in November 1973 to its current location at 2394 Gresham Road SE in Atlanta, Georgia. In 1983, the church body celebrated by erecting a new cornerstone.

The church took a major step forward in 1999 by incorporating under the name First Baptist Church Gresham Road Inc. and obtaining tax-exempt status as a 501(c)(3) organization.

The First Baptist Board of Christian Education was pivotal in transforming the former scout hut into the E.J. Jester Sr. Christian Education Center. Today, the church campus is home to a sanctuary, fellowship hall, classrooms, administrative offices, a commercial kitchen, playground, and chapel.

During the 112th anniversary celebration, the church honored its history by dedicating the original bell.

Current Leadership and Ministry Initiatives (2007–Present)

Pastor E.J. Jester Sr. retired in 2007. In February 2008, Rev. Russell Odom was elected pastor, but his tenure ended in July of the same year by mutual agreement with the church.

Later in 2008, during the church’s 114th year, Rev. Norman Thomas Jr. was called to serve as pastor. On January 11, 2009, Rev. Thomas began his ministry with First Baptist Church, officially installed on March 8, 2009. Under his guidance, the church undertook renovations, purchased a community center on Second Avenue, and saw membership growth.

New ministries for children and teens were established, ministering on the second through fourth Sundays.

Additionally, Sunday School offerings expanded to include classes such as New Member Orientation, “Alpha and Omega Men,” and “Women of the Word.” Outreach efforts flourished, and following the vision of the late Rev. Jester, the church’s parking lot was paved. The congregation remains grateful for Pastor Thomas’s leadership, praying for his continued strength and wisdom.

Ordinations and Mentorship Programs

On May 22, 2011, the church ordained 7 deacons. Following that ordination, on January 29, 2017, the church ordained one minister. Another associate minster was ordained on May 28, 2017, and the Alpha & Omega Men’s
Ministry launched a mentor/mentee program for young men.

In 2025, the Elite Ladies of Christ was organized.

Challenges and Celebrations: COVID-19 and the 50-Year Anniversary

The COVID-19 pandemic, which lasted more than three years, temporarily halted the church’s anniversary celebrations. In 2023, the congregation joyfully resumed these traditions, commemorating 50 years at the Gresham Park Community location. On October 20, 2023, a banquet featured Deacon Charlie Curry, Deacon Titus Jordan Jr., and Deacon Boysie Powell sharing stories of the church’s journey from Reynoldstown to Gresham Road. The following day, October 21st, the church hosted a Family Fun Day and Gospel Fest, strengthening bonds among members and the wider community.

Community Development and Expansion

The church entered into a long-term lease agreement with the Vecino Group and Gresham Park Community Development to utilize church-owned property at 2318 Second Avenue in Decatur, Georgia for the development of affordable senior housing. The groundbreaking ceremony for Solace Grove was held on September 14, 2024. Afterward, a reception took place at the Pauline Beard Fellowship Hall, attended by church members, partners, developers, and contractors. The project is nearing completion, and applications are now open for interested church members and community residents. Plans are also progressing for the construction of a Family Life Center at the main campus on Gresham Road.

Recent Renovations and Dedication

Renovations to the main sanctuary began in January 2025. During this time, the Pauline Beard Fellowship Hall served as the Worship Center from January 26, 2025, until the sanctuary renovations were finished. The newly renovated worship space was designed for safety, comfort, and modernity, featuring enhanced lighting, improved video and audiovisual systems, upgraded seating, an expanded pulpit and choir area, HVAC improvements, diffused glass windows, and renovated vestibule and restrooms.

On April 12, 2025, the congregation returned to the refurbished sanctuary, and a dedication service was held on April 13, 2025. The event was graced by the Honorable Lorraine Cochran Johnson, CEO of DeKalb County, and her Chief of Staff, Jonathan Phillips.

Continuing Mission and Impact

First Baptist Church continues to thrive, sharing the Gospel, supporting one another, and making a meaningful difference in the community. To date, the church has welcomed over 115 new members and celebrated more than 30 baptisms, a testament to its ongoing commitment to faith and outreach.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY, GREAT THINGS HE HAS DONE!