A Legacy of Faith: The History of Liberty Baptist Church
Liberty Baptist Church began humbly in July 1926, established in the home of Deacon David Sumpter. Shortly thereafter, Rev. Alexander Reynolds was called to serve as the church’s first pastor. Under his leadership, the congregation moved to 124 East Jersey Street in Elizabeth, New Jersey. In August 1927, Reverend Howard Culbreth, then moderator of the New Hope Association, officially named the church Liberty Baptist Church.
Rev. Reynolds served until 1928, after which several pastors provided spiritual leadership: Rev. B.B. Burghus (1928–1930), Rev. Henry B. Shawl (1930–1934), and Rev. Tyler T. Thomas (1934–1935). On December 30, 1936, the church was formally incorporated by Trustees Evan Hick, William Murray, Joseph Reed, James Charles, and Crawford Thomas. Rev. William Woods briefly served from 1936–1937, followed by Rev. LeRoy C. Huff (1937–1938). In 1938, Rev. Tyler T. Thomas returned as pastor and led the church faithfully until his passing on February 18, 1973.
On October 25, 1974, the congregation called Rev. Kenneth E. Grayson, who was officially installed on April 27, 1975, by Rev. John R. Stanford, President of the General Baptist State Convention of New Jersey. During his tenure, the church acquired the Fellowship Hall and a parsonage at 1415 Stanley Terrace in Hillside, NJ. Notable milestones under Rev. Grayson’s leadership include licensing Sis. Ella Mae Davis as the church’s first female evangelist and appointing its first female trustees: Ms. Lucy Mickens, Mrs. Archie Blanten, Ms. Mary Ratliff, Mrs. Luella McNeil, and Mrs. Magdalene Venable. Rev. Grayson retired in 1995 after 21 years of dedicated service.
In October 1995, Rev. Anthony W. Wilcots was elected as Liberty’s next pastor and formally installed on March 17, 1996, by Rev. Michael P. Williams. Pastor Wilcots led significant developments, including the purchase of properties at 507, 509, 514, and 519 Court Street—providing space for parking and establishing a Youth Church. His ministry focused on empowering the congregation and the local community through the Word of God. Many ministers were licensed under his leadership. Pastor Wilcots concluded his service at Liberty in 2008.
On May 1, 2010, Rev. Lester W. Wormley was elected pastor and officially installed on September 26, 2010. Under Dr. Wormley’s leadership, Liberty Baptist Church became entirely debt-free and fully IRS compliant. The church campus underwent major renovations, including updates to the sanctuary, restrooms, sound and music equipment, roofing, and parking lots. A chair lift was installed to assist seniors and those with mobility needs, and safety was enhanced with new fire escapes.
Dr. Wormley has also expanded Liberty’s outreach efforts. The church’s community food distribution program continues to grow, and partnerships with local organizations have strengthened. A highlight of this outreach is the annual 2-day S.W.A.G. Street Festival – Champion’s Weekend, which equips students for the school year and deepens community engagement.
With a rich legacy and an active, vibrant ministry, Liberty Baptist Church looks forward with faith and vision—to Impart the Word, Empower the Witness, and Impact the World.