In 1901, a group of born again believers came together and organized themselves to build a dwelling place for the Spirit of God through Jesus Christ.  Like Solomon, they realized God, Himself, could not be housed but they asked that His Spirit dwell in this place.

 

As a result of their request, God answered their prayers and under the leadership of Rev. A. L. Reese, the New Salem Missionary Baptist Church was incorporated, May 15, 1902.  At this time the small congregation continued in prayer and God gave the increase in membership.

 

After Rev. Reese passed from the scene, Rev. J. W. Lands emerged as Pastor.  Through his lesdership the Church continued to grow.  Many auxiliaries were organized to enhance worship.  Rev. Lands loved this Church.  It wes said that often times he was seen daily sitting in front of the Church conversing with members and those passing the Church.

 

After many years of service, ill health caused Rev. Lands to become unable to function as Pastor.  Rev. Early Williams was called as an acting Pastor in 1946.  His service was spiritually accepted by the congregation and in 1947, Rev. Williams was elected pastor.  Under Rev. William's leadership, the New Salem Missionary Baptist Church was remodeled to its present structure.  In later years, the annex was added to the Church.  Rev. Williams made sure that his yearly goal of the Church was 'Salvation for Lost Souls'.  As a result of him ami, the congregation continued to increase.  In 1975, Rev. Williams' health began to decline, and at the closing of 1975 God called him home.In 1976, Rev. L. M. Warner, Sr. was elected as shepherd of the Church.  He too, has given his talent as a leader.  Under his leadership, improvement of the interior of the Church had been made possible and the purchase of the adjoining property to the south of the Church is now owned by the congregation,  Due to health problems, Rev. Warner retired in October of 1999.

 

From October 1999, to November 2000, Minister Willie J. Green, Jr., delivered the Word of God to the congregation.

 

On November 7, 2000, The membership of the Church installed Rev. Walter L. Smith as the fifth Pastor of the Church.  Rev. Smith revealed his vision:  Growth of the membership and save the Lost by the way of the Cross.  Under his leadership many new members joined either by baptism or Christian experience.  Under his leadership the officers and members purchased two lots across the from the edifice.  Rev Smith resigned from the church in October 2002.

 

On October 27, 2002, the New Salem Missionary Baptist Church family ordained and installed Rev. Willie J. Green, Jr. as Pastor of the Church.  Rev. Green is the garndson of the late Rev. Early Williams.  Rev. Green's goals are to lead lost souls to Christ and to motivate progressive growth in membership and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Under his leadership improvements were made in the interior of the Chruch, (new lights, painting and many repairs.  In addition, a wheelchair ramp has been added to the entrance of the Church.

 

We are thankful to God for our inheritance.  It is our desire to keep the flame of the Holy Spirit burning in New Salem Missionary Baptist Church.