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Antioch has emerged from its modest beginnings to become an epitome of metropolitan churches. It serves as a mega-structure offering missionary and social services for thousands of members and countless citizens of Atlanta while accomplishing its major purpose, spreading the word of God. In hundreds of years, the trials and tribulations associated with this institution have been great, but the power of the Holy Spirit has allowed this great institution to overcome all obstacles and flourish in its endeavors. Evolving from a small group of eight known as the Bethursday Prayer group, Antioch has advanced in Christian growth. In gaining actual church status, Antioch has been blessed with dynamic leadership. Robert L. Craddock emerged as one of the most influential members of Antioch and assumed leadership responsibilities that shaped the development of Antioch. He stressed pastoral excellence and insisted that the Church minister be trained and experienced, as well as being a "called" preacher. Rev. Timothy S. Saine arrived during the flamboyant 20's and directed the attitudes of the young people in the membership. An effective administrator, Rev. Saine democratized church affairs, reorganized the Sunday School. The end of the roaring 20's saw the emergence of the George Years. Rev. Timothy George became pastor of Antioch in 1927. With a willing to work congregation, Rev. George led them to the first sanctuary on Gray Street. In 1940 the church had to relocate for the building of Herndon Homes government housing project. The foundation of the church was moved to its present location, Northside Drive and Kennedy Street, known then as Lambert Street. He was an energetic preacher and did much to enhance the growth of the membership. He helped organize the Mt. Herman Association of which Antioch is still active, and served as the first Moderator. Rev. T. H. George passed in 1943 after 17 years of dedicated service. After the passing of his father Rev. Dormitory T. George was called to pastor Antioch. Under his leadership the church was renovated and sever auxiliaries were organized. These auxiliaries included the D. T. George Gospel Choir, Service Guild, Co-Ed Usher Board, Fisherman Club, Male Chorus, and Progressive Garden Club. Under his leadership, communion services were held in the afternoon at 3:00 p.m. and the church was always full to capacity. Rev. D. T. George had that charming smile that made him a "giant" among men. He served from 1943 until 1962. Rev. W. Marcus Williams became pastor of Antioch during difficult times while the church was without a leader due to the illness of Rev. D. T. George. Rev. Williams, with his melodious tenor voice, picked up the pieces and carried on the work which the George’s had begun. During this pastorate he organized a day care center, credit union and reactivated several auxiliaries. The WMW choir was organized and several members added to the membership. He resigned in 1969. Rev. Cameron M. Alexander has been the spiritual leader of the Antioch family for the past thirty years. Under Rev. Alexander’s leadership, the membership has grown to approximately 12,000. His vision has brought to fruition over 40 departments and auxiliaries, 9 human service ministries, innumerable Christian Education workshops and seminars, and gloriously, the completion of a multi-million dollar worship center. Church Staff Lenora Williams- Church Secretary Bonita Hammond- New Members Bro. Joe Beasley- Human Resource Coordinator & Director of Antioch Urban Ministries. Rev. Rodney Turner- Substance Abuse Coordinator- 404-524-5765 Dea. Bob Jones- Director for Project Development Rev. Kenneth Alexander- Asset Manager Sonya May-Calvin Members/Special Projects Coordinator Dea. Benny Williams- Assistant to Pastor for Personnel & Financial Affairs Anthea Evans- Data Entry Operator Rev. James Walker- Minister of Education Gwen Johnson- Computer Coordinator Dea. Charles Parham- Head Culinarian/ Maintenance
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Antioch Baptist Church
North,
conceived to fulfill the needs of Black Atlanta to gather and praise God’s
Holy name in this community, has grown from eight good and faithful
brethren to a membership in access of 12,000. Established during the period
of time when Black Americans began searching for better lives after the
Emancipation Proclamation declared freedom, Antioch has made a profound
impact on the lives of thousands of individuals, young and old, black and
white.