Celebrating 86 Years
Our History
Rooted in Faith Since 1940
“And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” — Matthew 16:18
Community Baptist Church of Fort Wayne has stood as a beacon of faith, fellowship, and service in our city for over eight decades. What began as a small gathering of eight committed believers has grown into a thriving congregation, touching lives across generations. This is our story — a story of God's faithfulness.
Our Journey
Milestones of Faith
1940
The Beginning — Community Tabernacle Founded
In June 1940, Rev. William Pruitt established our congregation under the name Community Tabernacle, laying the spiritual foundation that would carry us for over eight decades.
1964–1966
A New Name — Community Baptist Church
Under the leadership of Rev. Calvin Howell, our church was renamed Community Baptist Church. Rev. J.C. Watson served as pastor from 1964–1966, followed briefly by Rev. L.E. Wilson.
1966–1981
Building on Faith — The First Church Home
Rev. Willie Howell was elected pastor in 1966. In 1967, our first church building was erected at 1433 McCulloch Street — built by just eight dedicated members united in mind and faith. By 1981, that small foundation had grown into a congregation of 100 members.
1981–1988
A Season of Growth
Rev. Lenwood King was elected pastor in June 1981. Under his prayerful leadership, membership grew to over 136, new pews were purchased for the sanctuary, and the church underwent important remodeling.
1988–1993
Faithful Transitions
Rev. Tieberias Smith served from September 1988 to June 1990. Rev. Isaiah Meriwether was then elected in December 1990 and served through December 1992, maintaining the church's steady walk with God.
1993–2007
A Season of Expansion — Pastor Mack E. Page Sr.
Rev. Mack E. Page Sr. was elected in September 1993, leading the church through remarkable growth. In February 1994, the church purchased its current building at 3032 Smith Street. Membership grew to over 225. Highlights include the establishment of the Mass Choir, the Jeff Benson Scholarship Fund, and the launch of our beloved Child Care Ministry in May 1997. In June 2000, for our 60th Anniversary, the CBC Reunion Mass Choir recorded a live CD — “Jesus Will See You Through.” In July 2002, the CBC Youth Chorus (later renamed Voices for Christ) was formed. In June 2007, the church celebrated its 67th Anniversary with the mortgage paid in full and a major sanctuary renovation completed.
2008–2010
Continued Service
Rev. Joey Simpson faithfully served as pastor from January 2008 through August 2010.
2012–Present
A New Era — Pastor Thayer L. Williamson
Rev. Thayer L. Williamson was elected pastor in November 2012 and continues to lead our congregation today. In his first year alone, 79 people were baptized and over 200 united with the church. Under his leadership: Women of Worship (WOW) was formed; three Praise Dance Ministries, a Pastoral Aid Ministry, and a New Members' Class were established; major facility renovations took place; a new church van was purchased in 2019; the church remained open and safe through the 2020–2021 pandemic; full interior and exterior renovations were completed in 2022; new pulpit furniture and social media expansion came in 2023; school transportation for childcare children launched in 2024; and in 2025, the church launched its Children's Choir and celebrated 85 years of God's faithfulness.
2026
Celebrating 86 Years of God's Faithfulness
“Look at what God has done! He is good — all the time. And all the time — God is good.” Community Baptist Church continues to grow in faith and in numbers as we reach the lost for Christ.
“Still Growing, Still Reaching — What God has done for others, He will surely do for you. There is no limit to His power and grace.”
Community Baptist Church of Fort Wayne — Serving Since 1940