The Deacon Board
The Deacon Board serves alongside the pastor and ministerial staff by supporting the spiritual life of the church through prayer, care, and faithful service to the congregation.
Discover opportunities to grow in faith, build meaningful relationships, serve others, and connect with our church community. Through our ministries, there is a place for everyone to worship, learn, serve, and grow together.
The Deacon Board serves alongside the pastor and ministerial staff by supporting the spiritual life of the church through prayer, care, and faithful service to the congregation.
The Board of Trustees is responsible for the stewardship and management of the church’s finances, property, and facilities, helping ensure the long-term care and sustainability of the church.
The Music & Worship Arts Ministry proclaims God’s Word through sacred music and artistic expression, leading the congregation in worship, reflection, and faithful service.
The Dance Ministry offers praise to God through movement and is open to youth and adults, with no prior dance experience required. The ministry ministers monthly, on special Sundays, and at churches in the surrounding community, and hosts its annual Dance Ministry Celebration each fall.
The Djembe Ministry honors our ancestral traditions by teaching the history and techniques of the “talking drum,” using rhythm as a means of connection, memory, and cultural resilience.
The Jazz Vespers offers a unique worship experience that blends spiritual reflection with the improvisational beauty of jazz.
The Celestial Choir comprises children ages 6 to 12 and serves as a nurturing space for young singers to grow musically and spiritually. The choir ministers during worship on the 4th Sundays of each month.
The Gospel Ensemble is a mixed-voice choir rooted in the rich tradition of classic gospel music and ministers during worship on the third Sunday of each month.
Higher Praise is our young adult choir (ages 20–40), offering a fresh and vibrant sound through contemporary praise, worship music, and modern gospel. The choir ministers during worship on the fourth Sunday of each month.
United Voices is a mixed-voice ensemble whose repertoire spans a wide range of sacred music, including contemporary gospel. The choir ministers during worship on the first Sunday of each month.
The Unique David Chavis Male Chorus, named in honor of David Chavis, the first Chairman of the Deacon Board, preserves the quartet tradition while embracing a variety of gospel styles. The chorus ministers during worship on the second Sunday of each month.
The Mass Choir brings together members from all choirs and welcomes those who may only be available to sing during special services or seasonal moments. This ministry provides a flexible and inclusive space for gifted voices to join in leading worship for special occasions, holy days, and celebratory services throughout the year.
Our Ministry of Christian Education supports our church's faith journey by encouraging a continuous quest for learning and understanding. The ministry promotes various teaching vehicles, including the Sunday School for adults and youth
The Men’s Bible Study gathers men for focused, Scripture-centered conversation that encourages critical thinking about faith, creates space for honest sharing, and builds camaraderie, growth, and healing in our lives together.
Sunday School for Adults explores core biblical teachings from Genesis to Revelation, lifts up figures from Africa and the African Diaspora who modeled resilient faith, and offers verse-by-verse study that connects scripture to today’s spiritual and cultural realities. Sunday School for Adults meets on Monday evenings at 6:30 PM on Zoom.
The Health & Wellness Ministries support the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of our congregation and community, offering care, education, and compassionate accompaniment through every season of life.
The Caring Hearts provides support, compassion, and resources for individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS, promoting awareness, understanding, and love within the church and the wider community.
The Faith > Fear Cancer Ministry offers a supportive community for individuals and families impacted by cancer. Through shared stories, encouragement, and survivor testimonies, the ministry provides strength and hope for those navigating diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Meets on the 3rd Sundays after service.
The Healing Circle offers a safe and supportive space for those navigating grief and loss of any kind. Open to all, this ministry centers healing, listening, and shared presence in seasons of sorrow. Meets on the 3rd Saturdays of each month.
The Wellness Ministry supports the holistic well-being of our multigenerational congregation by offering culturally relevant resources, workshops, and connections to mental health professionals. The ministry encourages emotional, physical, and spiritual wellness as a vital part of faith and daily life.
The Victor Skelton Health Guild comprises trained medical professionals and First Aid–certified volunteers who provide care and medical support during worship and other church gatherings in the event of a medical emergency.
The Hospitality & Service Ministries work together to create a welcoming, supportive, and engaging environment for all—both in person and online—ensuring that everyone feels valued, connected, and uplifted within the life of the church.
The Culinary Committee prepares and serves meals for church events, ministry gatherings, and funeral repasts, helping bring people together through food, fellowship, and care in times of celebration and grief.
The Hospitality Ministry helps set the tone for worship by greeting all who enter and making sure members and visitors alike feel at home in the House of the Lord.
The Joint Board of Ushers supports a worship experience that is both welcoming and orderly. Our ushers serve with care and excellence and are active members of the Church Ushers Association, connecting with usher boards locally and nationally.
The Media Ministry helps extend our worship beyond the walls of the church through livestreaming, media production, storytelling, and archiving—supporting both in-person and virtual worship.
The Missions, Outreach, and Social Concern ministries put faith into action by serving those in need and strengthening our community through compassion, partnership, and care.
Izetta’s Angels honors the legacy of Deacon Izetta Johnson by spreading joy during the Christmas season. Through a churchwide toy drive and partnerships with local shelters, the ministry supports children and families in transitional housing with love and generosity.
The Lending Hands Ministry serves the community through partnerships and hands-on outreach. The ministry supports local schools, including P.S. 375, and leads the annual Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway to help families gather around a full holiday meal.
The Missionary Ministry cares for members who are sick and shut-in by offering tangible expressions of love. Through visits and seasonal outreach—especially during holidays—the ministry reminds each person that they remain connected to the life of the church.
The Threads of Hope Clothing Ministry serves individuals and families in our community through their spring and fall clothing drive.
The Family & Congregational Life Ministries help strengthen fellowship at First Baptist by creating spaces where individuals and families can grow in faith, build relationships, and celebrate the diversity of our church community.
The Church Anniversary Ministry plans and coordinates our annual celebration of the church’s founding, honoring our history, celebrating our present work, and looking ahead with hope. Church Anniversary is celebrated on the 4th Sunday of June.
The Cultural Committee gathers members to attend Broadway and Off-Broadway shows together. These shared experiences build fellowship and invite reflection through the arts beyond the church walls.
Ever-Evolving Experience (E³) is the Young Adult Ministry of First Baptist, creating space for young adults to grow in faith, build community, and explore purpose through fellowship, conversation, and service.
The Floral Ministry enhances worship and special occasions through thoughtful and beautiful floral arrangements. The ministry partners with members to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries and prepares seasonal decorations, including poinsettias at Christmas and lilies at Easter.
The Golden Life Ministry offers a weekday devotional gathering on Zoom at noon, providing space for prayer, reflection, and fellowship among members seeking consistent spiritual connection.
The International Ministry celebrates the Caribbean heritage and global roots of our congregation through cultural gatherings, shared meals, and fellowship. The ministry also hosts conversations on issues affecting immigrant communities and organizes relief efforts for natural disasters in the Caribbean and Central America. International Sunday is celebrated in July.
The Mighty Men of Valor (Men’s Ministry) brings men and boys together across generations to grow in faith, character, and purpose. Through fellowship and meaningful conversation, the ministry encourages men to live out their calling within the church and beyond.
The New Members Ministry welcomes and orients individuals as they begin their journey of faith and their relationship with First Baptist, helping them feel informed, connected, and at home in the life of the church.
The Pastor’s Anniversary Ministry plans and coordinates the annual celebration honoring the pastor’s leadership, service, and faithfulness to the life and mission of the church.
The Seniors Ministry honors and affirms members ages 65 and older through monthly fellowship and special initiatives that foster connection and care. Senior Fellowship meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month.
The Women’s Ministry is committed to the spiritual growth of the women of First Baptist. Through monthly gatherings, spiritual retreats, and …, the ministry seeks transform the mind, body, and spirit of every woman.
The Empowerment & Leadership Development ministries are dedicated to helping you reach your highest potential. Whether you're overcoming past challenges, pursuing your educational dreams, or growing your business, we provide the practical support and encouragement you need to thrive, all within a loving faith community that believes in your success.
The Marketplace Ministry, launched in 2025, supports business owners within our church and community. Through gatherings and initiatives such as the Holiday Pop-Up Shop, the ministry encourages entrepreneurship, shared learning, and economic growth rooted in faith.
The Rephidim Ministry works to make our church a Stationof Hope—where those who have been marginalized or stigmatized are welcomed, supported, and empowered to grow into healthy, thriving members of society.
The Scholarship Committee assists First Baptist members and members of the wider community who are pursuing undergraduate education by helping make college more accessible and attainable.
Our Children & Youth Ministries create a caring and engaging space where young people can grow in faith, discover their gifts, and build lasting friendships under the guidance of committed teachers and leaders.
The Girl Scouts provides a safe and nurturing environment for young girls to develop leadership skills, build character, and engage in community service.
Sunday School for Youth, held on Sundays at 9 AM in the Fellowship Hall, offers a fun and nurturing environment for children and teens ages 5-18. Our dedicated teachers lead engaging activities, bible lessons, and snack time to help young people grow in their faith and build meaningful friendships.
The Tutorial Program supports students by helping them strengthen their understanding of school subjects and build confidence in their academic abilities.