Brown organized and became the first Pastor of Union Progressive Baptist Church. Many services and prayer meetings where held around a wooden stove and on wood floors. In 1946, under the Pastorate of Reverend J. Roberts, a concrete building was constructed with their own hands. Hooks became the Pastor in 1961, and under his guidance the main entrance of the church was built. The second cornerstone
was laid. Reverend Hooks remained faithful until the Lord sent Reverend Steve Love to lead the church in 1966. Under his leadership, the church prospered spiritually and financially. Reverend Love served diligently until his home going in 1968. For the next six years we were under the leadership of Reverend Jake Ray Jr. Under his administration there were many accomplishments. Furniture and carpet were purchased and the land adjacent to the church was purchased for parking. In 1974, the church appointed Reverend Dennis Baker as pastor. During his two year pastorate, the foundation was laid for the dining area. On November 6, 1976, Reverend Corinthian R. Morgan was called as pastor. Under this energetic young man’s pastorate, the church has been greatly blessed and has progressed tremendously. In every aspect, under Pastor Morgan’s leadership and teaching, the church grew both spiritually and numerically. As a result, of Reverend Morgan’s vision, many goals and accomplishments were realized: completion of dining area and fixtures, new baptism pool, a 15 passenger van, 3 parcels of land, and a sound system was purchased. Numerous ministries were re-organized and implemented under his leadership: Youth department, Cub scout group, Mass Choir, Women and Men’s ministry, Homework Assistance Program, Care and Inspiration Committee, Culinary, In reach/Outreach, Wellness, Youth Praise and Dance Ministry to name a few. In 2008, the building went through a total transformation: new roof, carpet, dining area, pews, and walls. We are thankful for Pastor Morgan’s leadership, compassion, and zeal. In January 2016, Reverend Jeffrey Francis was called as the 8th pastor of the Union Progressive Church.
