The first members were our pioneers blazing the early trails our journey as a Baptist Church. Both the physical facility and congregation has changed several times in the almost ninety-two years of existence for Greater Hollywood Baptist Church. The late Rev. Henry Rowanne was the founding Pastor. He served faithfully until his death in 1931. The first deacons serving the Church in 1920 were: Bro.
Randolph Gilmore, Bro. Isreal Ameal and Bro.York Smith. The First Mother of the Church was Sis. Lucinda Rowanne. The first Deaconess were: Sis Rosa Pitcher, Sis. Carrie Raby, Sis. Rosie Ameal and Sis Roeana Gilmore. The first baptism was held in September of 1921 as Emily Raby and Alice Coleman were baptized. Sinclair McDonald was elected as the second Pastor of Greater Hollywood Baptist Church in 1931. Later on in the 1930’s the third pastor of this Church was Rev. James Bickham. He served as pastor until he became ill. Samuel Morris was the fourth pastor of Greater Hollywood Baptist Church. He began pastoring in 1939 and served more than 20 Years. His service as pastor ended when he became ill. He was the pastor with the longest periods of service. Through all of these changes, Greater Hollywood still remained strong. Jonathan Chambers was the fifth pastor of this church where he served for 18 Years. He is credited with the second longest period of service. Our current pastor The Rev. Anthony Burton, Sr. is the eighth pastor of Greater Hollywood Baptist Church. He began serving in February 2004. With eight representing new beginnings, his leadership has taken us on a well-needed journey towards spiritual and financial growth.
