Greater Eleazer Baptist Church and Dedication

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 “In whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.” Ephesians 2:21-22 

THE CHURCH HISTORY OF THE GREATER ELEAZER                      MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH  

This church history is dedicated to the many men and women who have shaped the legacy of this wonderful church; many who have met their Master face to face in Heaven, and those who continue to labor in His vineyard, committing themselves to the advancement of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Our journey began at the Lighthouse Baptist Church. In late 1967, Rev.  Jack Moore was called to lead, and under his guidance, the church’s name was transformed to Greater Eleazer Missionary Baptist Church, accompanied by the ambitious vision of a new building, which was still under construction. Rev. S.J. Williams played a crucial role, tearing down the old structure and generously contributing his time and over $1,200 worth of materials toward the new building’s completion.  

On October 10, 1970, Rev. S.J. Williams was called to pastor during a challenging time with a building project unfinished and a small congregation. Yet, through God’s favor, we welcomed 12 new members within a month, and in just three years, we paid off our debt—Glory to God! At that time, there was no choir, no deacon staff, no secretary or treasurer—only one usher, who eventually moved on. But God blessed us abundantly. We grew to have three choirs: a Senior choir, a Male chorus, and a Young Adult choir, supported by three dedicated musicians, eight God-fearing deacons, and nine senior ushers, along with young adult and junior ushers. A loving financial staff was formed, along with a large host of members who cherished one another. 

New pews and a remodeled dining area signify our growth and commitment to the Lord’s work. Adjustments transformed our church into a big happy household of faith, where we praised God for His blessings then and now.  

In December 1989, our beloved Pastor S.J. Williams fell ill and was laid to rest on January 8, 1990, leaving behind a profound legacy of Christ’s love through our love for one another. In the aftermath, three God fearing ministers and a strong deacon board united in prayer and supplication, seeking the Lord’s guidance, 

In June 1990, Rev. Robert E. Dowell was appointed our new shepherd.  Pastor Dowell emerged as a God-fearing, spirit-filled leader committed to guiding His people.  

Pastor Dowell proved to be a God-fearing, spirit-filled leader, dedicated to guiding His people with unwavering commitment to Christ. Under his leadership, hundreds of new souls joined our church family united by a deep love for the Lord and a willingness to serve in various capacities of the church. This growth inspired the addition of deacons, a church secretary, missionaries, musicians, singers, teachers, leaders, preachers, and other organizations dedicated to God's work. 

As the church building reached capacity, Pastor Dowell sought the Lord’s guidance for a new structure. Through prayer, perseverance, and love, we triumphantly moved into our new building on July 30, 1995. In 2004, we celebrated the completion of our new Fellowship Hall, featuring classrooms and a dining room. On February 15, 2004, Greater Eleazer held a dedication service to honor this vision. Since then, our fellowship has flourished, experiencing abundant blessings, forging connections with other visionaries, and engaging in community outreach and services. 

On March 3, 2017, we mourned the loss of our beloved Pastor Robert E.  Dowell, who was called home to the Master's arms after a sudden illness. His legacy of unwavering commitment and dedication will forever be etched in the hearts of the Greater Eleazer family. 

That same year, we united in prayer, seeking God's guidance for a new shepherd, forming a dedicated search committee of six. With one accord, they embarked on this sacred journey within our church community.  

After a month of prayer and meetings, we joyfully cast our votes and elected our very own Rev. Lawrence R. Barrett as Senior Pastor of Greater Eleazer Baptist Church. Pastor Barrett was installed on August 20, 2017, and since then, many have embraced his vision and that is to nurture our church in biblical education and training, to be a driving force in our community, and to serve the homeless, elderly, disabled, and lost, sharing God’s love with all. 

To God be the Glory! 

Lawrence R. Barrett, Pastor 

Ronald Prioleau, Chairman of the Deacon Ministry 

Sis. Robbie Lockridge, Church Secretary