The Years of Courage:
Responding to Changing and Challenging Times
1960s
Second Baptist was a strong force in the Media Area Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. Many of the adult and youth were members. During the Civil Right Movement in the 60’s when many arrests were being made in Chester Pennsylvania and surrounding communities, the Freedom Brigade took food to those arrested and held in the Media Jail at 3rd and Olive Streets. The Youth Group, under the leadership of Deacon James Austin and his wife Gladys organized this effort. Some of the Youth Group members who have gone to make great contribution to society are Dr. Juan Baughn, Sister Dorothy Green, Sister Gail Rheubottom Randolph, Sister Patrician Watson, Brother Alphonso Randolph, Sister Loretta Sommerville Polhill, and the late Douglas Randolph.
1970s
In August 1970, Rev. Dr. Lee passed away having served Second Baptist Church of Media for thirty-two years.
From 1970 to 1972, Rev. Abner Mason rendered services as interim pastor. Rev. James Houston was called to pastor in 1972 and remained until 1974. After Rev. Houston resigned, Rev. Frank Brown became interim pastor.
In June 1975, Rev. Michael Drewer became pastor and he served until September 25, 1977. Under his leadership, the Young Peoples’ Endeavors was begun (Y.P.E.) with President Eugene Boles and Sister Gladys Austin, director.
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From November 7, 1977 to May 15, 1978, Rev. Daniel McIntyre assumed the position of interim pastor. From June 1978 until January 1979 various ministers from Philadelphia, Chester and other vicinities delivered the Sunday Morning Worship Services.
In November, 1978, the Rev Earl F. Wright became a member of the church, and performed as an associate minister, Then, on M21 1979, a confidence vote was taken after the morning service and Rev. Wright was elected to serve as pastor. He was installed on July 15, 1979, and remained as pastor until July 31 1984.
From August 1984 to March, 1985, visiting members came to help with the morning services. The New Hope Association of Chester and Vicinity was instrumental in securing guest preachers and assisted in choosing a candidate for pastor.
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