The History of New S
t. Philip Missionary Baptist Church
New St. Philip Missionary Baptist Church was organized in 1923 following a separation from Saint Phillips Baptist Church. The first services were held under a Brush Arbor, with Rev. Johnnie J. Bullock chosen as the founding pastor. Four officers were appointed: Deacon Collie Sessum, Deacon Ed Tripple, Sister Shelia Britton, and Brother Allen Posley. The early membership included Brother Jim Dade, Sister Mary Dade, Sister Minnie Bullock, Sister Virginia Rodgers, Sister Jessie Williams, Sister Lucy Davis, and Sister Ollie Sessum.
Later, services were conducted under a tent in the Mulberry area near DeWalt, Texas. At that time, the church was renamed New Saint Phillip Baptist Church, with Rev. Thomas Robinson serving as pastor. During this period, Brother Jimmie Dade, a devoted member, appealed to his employer, Mr. A. L. Choen, a local realtor, for land to build a permanent place of worship. God moved upon Mr. Choen’s heart, and he generously donated the land where the church now stands.
Rev. J. J. Bullock oversaw the construction of the first church building. After his resignation, the church was led by Rev. Houston, followed by Rev. C. H. Jones. Rev. R. E. Edward was later called to serve and faithfully led for eight years. He was succeeded by Rev. D. A. Goston, who served for eleven years before resigning. The church continues to honor the legacy and spirit of these early leaders who laid a strong foundation of faith and perseverance.
Rev. J. N. Williams was then called to shepherd New St. Philip Baptist Church. A progressive and dedicated leader from Houston, Texas, Pastor Williams faced opposition but remained steadfast, relying on God’s power and Spirit. Under his leadership, the church flourished, expanding its ministries and upgrading its facilities. Pastor Williams served faithfully for 33 years until the Lord called him home in February 1998.
On April 13, 1998, the church elected Rev. J. DeWitt Clark as pastor. A visionary and dynamic leader, Pastor Clark brought renewed growth in both membership and biblical knowledge. Under his leadership, the church restored its name to New St. Philip Missionary Baptist Church. Pastor Clark has introduced numerous ministries to strengthen discipleship and deepen the church’s connection to the surrounding community. Through his guidance, the church continues to grow in faith, service, and commitment to God’s mission.
On September 29, 2024, in celebration of our 101st Church Anniversary, New St. Philip Missionary Baptist Church was honored with an official proclamation declaring the day as New St. Philip Missionary Baptist Church Day, by Arcola City Mayor Veeda Williams –marking a historic milestone in the life of our church and community.
In December 2024, under the leadership of Pastor Clark, New St. Philip Missionary Baptist Church took a significant step forward in its mission by acquiring a 4000 square foot modular building facility. This addition is to accommodate the church’s growing membership and expanding ministries—particularly to better serve the needs of our youth. By God’s favor and guidance throughout this process, we are now in the final stages of securing building permit approval with the City of Arcola and the building will soon be placed on the property. This milestone marks yet another season of growth and a testament to God’s continued blessing upon our church.
Today, New St. Philip Missionary Baptist Church continues to thrive under Pastor Clark’s leadership as we remain steadfast in our mission: to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ through the preaching of God’s Word, to disciple believers, to reach the unsaved, and to advance God’s Kingdom in our community and beyond.