The Church History

The Jerusalem Baptist Church was organized under the leadership of Rev. T.J. Yarbrough in the late 1800s.  Since records of the exact date have been lost or destroyed, the year of our Lord 1894 has been adopted.   This is the year listed on the deed for land purchased by the Jerusalem Baptist Church. 

Since that time, the church has called 12 men of God to serve as pastor, namely Rev. T.J. Yarbrough, Rev. E.E. Ellis, Rev. Lynn Boyd, Rev. A.C. Daniels, Rev. R.T. Lewis, Rev. G.H. Henry (1943-1953), Rev. O.L. Holston (1953-1973), Rev. R.M. Murphy (1973-1976),  Rev. W.H. Dawson (1977-1978), Rev. Jesse Lee Hall (1979-2000), and Pastor Tommy L. Davis (2001-present).

Under the direction of Pastor Hall, the church building underwent major renovations that included an indoor baptismal pool, central heat and air conditioning, and a spacious, paved parking lot.  It was at this time that the name of the church was changed from Jerusalem Baptist Church to “New” Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church.

In February 2001, our current pastor, Rev. Tommy L. Davis was called.  Highlights have included the purchased of the church’s first computer system in 2001, resulting in the computerization of all church membership and financial records, and the development of the church’s web site; In 2002, a computerized keyboard was purchased to enhance the church's music ministry; and in 2003, the church purchased two 15 passenger buses and began its Bus Ministry. 

It is under the leadership of Pastor Davis that the church intends to continue a very prosperous relationship with God.  Today, the church family reaches out to and serves the people of Lee and Russell Counties in Alabama, and the City of Columbus, Georgia.  Through a continued fellowship with others, the church is fulfilling the great commission of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ by going into all the world, teaching, preaching, and baptizing in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.