The Second Baptist Church was organized in the city of Middletown at 34 canal street in march 1932. The organizers were: the Rev. W.H.O. Watson, first pastor of the church, along with Mr. and Mrs. Robert Saunders, Mrs. Lucy Williams, Mr. David Dixon and Mr. Hill. In June 1932, the mission moved to 12 1/2 canal street, after being accepted into the fellowship of the Central Hudson Baptist Association and the Empire State Baptist Convention.
In December, 1993, a fire destroyed the church edifice. The night of the fire, pastor Bill Hawley of First Presbyterian Church, gave our church family full use of their facilities. We were blessed to share the church with loving and compassionate people for 5 years. In 1995, the Lord opened a door that allowed us to purchase the building and land at 125-133 north street. in december 1998, our congregation marched from First Presbyterian Church to our new home.
To be the church, not go to church. Restoring the church to its old traditional place at the table of community planning, leadership and growth. Providing activities and programs that are purpose driven to meet the needs, win the lost, clothe the naked, feed the hungry, open the eyes of the blind and make disciples of ALL people. To be a beacon of hope, a light unto the world and a reflection of heaven.
To present Christ to all people, growing the body, enhancing their maturity and cultivating their gifts to the glory of God and our Lord Jesus Christ.
Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave his charge: “God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I’ll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age.
Matthew 28:18-20
To be progressive in our thinking, rooted in our beliefs, unwavering in out actions, purpose driven believers committed to a cause.