Our Story: 75 Years of Faith, Vision, and Love

 

On May 31, 1950, beneath the covering of a tent and the presence of God, twenty-three faithful believers gathered to form what would become St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church. Their names—John and Sallie Able, James Adams, Rebecca and Sammie L. Calloway, Joe Kinard, Frank and Laura Mackey, John, Aaron, A.J., and Elijah Moore, Mattie Moore, Mattie Poole, Daisy Stitt, Rev. J.H. and Maggie Watts, Fred Winchester, Ed and Henrietta Woodward, James, Mary, and Ray Lee Young—are etched into the foundation of our church's legacy. These pioneers didn’t just plant a church; they planted a movement of faith, rooted in love, service, and the unshakable belief that "Our God Can!"

1950–1989: A Legacy Begins

Rev. J.H. Watts was called as the church’s first pastor, laying a spiritual foundation for the years to come. In August 1953, Rev. L.D. Parker was called to lead, and for thirty-nine years, he guided the church with wisdom, compassion, and steadfast commitment.

Under Rev. Parker’s leadership, the congregation constructed its first building in 1954, purchased additional land, and grew from 23 members to over 700 strong. Ministries blossomed—Deacon and Trustee Boards, multiple choirs, Usher and Nurses Boards, Pastor’s Aid, Laymen League, and more—each one a reflection of the church’s heartbeat: service and community.

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1990–1999: A New Home, A Continuing Journey

In December 1990, Pastor Parker and the congregation joyfully marched into a newly built sanctuary. As Moderator of the Lane Creek Association, Pastor Parker helped welcome eleven new churches into fellowship. Before retiring, he led the church to financial freedom by paying off its mortgage in 1998—a proud and prayerful moment. That same year, Rev. Parker went home to be with the Lord, leaving behind a powerful legacy of faith. Following a season of discernment, Rev. Dr. Clifford Matthews Jr. was called as St. Luke’s third pastor, ushering in a new chapter of ministry and mission.

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2000–Present: Walking Boldly Into the Future

Under Pastor Matthews’ leadership, St. Luke has deepened its commitment to local service and global impact. From Johannesburg, South Africa to the streets of Druid Hills, the church has extended its reach—spiritually, socially, and structurally.

Pastor Matthews made history by:

• Opening the pulpit to women in ministry.

• Ordaining women as deacons, a first in church history.

• Dedicating the L.D. Parker Fellowship Hall in honor of his predecessor.

• Launching the Bridge of Life HIV/AIDS initiative to train caregivers and support those affected.

• Establishing the Seasoned Saints Ministry for elders and a Food Pantry for community families.

• Opening the CARE3 Career Center to support job seekers with resumes, training, and resources.

The church also opened its heart and homes to six children from ICOM (International Children Outreach Ministries) and gave in Rev. Parker’s honor to support the building of a church in South Africa. Through it all, St. Luke remains a place where worship is excellent, lives are empowered, and love is for everyone.

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Our Vision Becomes Reality

As we celebrate 75 years of ministry, we do so with gratitude for our past and bold faith for our future.We see a church where worship is not just an  experience—it’s an encounter with God. Every service will be grounded in tradition and filled with the Spirit. No one should leave without feeling they’ve been in the very presence of God. We envision becoming the premier Christian education center in our region—offering more than just Sunday School and Bible study, but shaping minds and hearts with the mind of Christ. We aim to go boldly where few African American churches have gone before. We will be more than a Sunday church. Through our Good Samaritan Community Development Corporation, we will:

• Empower children in poverty to dream of brighter futures.

• Support families in strengthening their lives.

• Develop affordable housing solutions in Druid Hills and beyond.

We will be a church for everyone—authentic, transparent, and welcoming. “All are welcome” isn’t just a slogan; it’s the core of who we are. Wherever communities gather, we will be there—carrying the love of Christ, living our mission out loud.

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Looking Ahead

St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church is not just celebrating 75 years—we are stepping into a future filled with promise, purpose, and power.

We walk by faith. We serve with love. And we stand on this truth: Our God Can.