The Years of Expansion:
Reaching Beyond the Walls of Second Baptist
1985
On March 12, 1985, the congregation met to elect a pastor. Rev Warren D. Mays, Sr. was elected and he was installed on June 23, 1985. During his tenure of twenty plus years, Second Baptist has expanded and developed ministries; begun building renovations; spearheaded and collaborated in community projects; and initiated programs which meet the needs of the congregation and community.
The following narrative is not all inclusive, but is an attempt to formulate the major occurrences in the life of Second Baptist Church from 1985 to March 2011.
One of the first projects completed after the installation of Rev. Mays, was the laying of carpet down the aisles and the addition of cushions on the seats of the pews. The congregation was so pleased with this project, they wanted to do more to upgrade the edifice.
1988
In 1988, A Building Committee was formed with Deacon Charles Ballard as chairman. In collaboration with the late Trustee Ike Hughes followed by Alexander Curtis, Jr. several renovation projects were completed. These included new doors, painting, a new roof, remodeling of a section of the sanctuary following a fire, refurbishing of the Fellowship Hall, kitchen and bathrooms.
Twenty-five years ago a relationship was begun between the then Bishop Nursing Home, now called Sterling Nursing Home and the Missionary Society of Second Baptist. This relationship continues: On Homecoming, Sunday, October 15,2006 the director, Frank Martchese and recreational facilitator presented plaques, “Sterling Stars”, of appreciation to Sister Iola Taylor, Sister Olivia Presberry and Pastor Mays for the continued devotion to the residents of the facility. Second Baptist was the first recipient of these beautiful keepsakes.
Additionally, in 1988, Second Baptist joined Media, Fellowship, inc and the Delaware County Council of Churches in organizing a celebration of the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.. This celebration has continued throughout the past seventeen years with our choirs, pastor and youth very actively involved.
1994
In 1994, a Scholarship fund was established in the memory of Trustee Wilford B. Jones, in collaboration with his widow, Dr. Sylvia Jones. This committee has awarded twenty-three scholarships to students from the church and community so they could continue their pursuit of higher education.
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