About Our Church
Our Story
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The Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church was first built on the creek in a pasture on the Cameta Plantation in the late 1800s by the plantation owner, Mr. John Campbell. It was made out of cypress boards and had no electricity. Light in the church was provided by the members, who used a can in which they put meat grease and then placed a string in the can, lighting it with a match. The next form of lighting in the church was kerosene lamps, which were placed down the center of the church and hung from the ceiling. The musical instrument in the church was an organ that no one knew how to play. The organ was later given to Mr. Percy Green in exchange for a piano in 1914.
The second St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church was built by Mr. Milan Campbell, the son of Mr. John Campbell, in the plantation quarters. In order to pay for the church, Mr. Milan Campbell took a certain amount of money from each person's annual settlement check at the end of the year until the church was paid for. The second church was built out of pine, and they used wooden pegs instead of nails in constructing the church. Although bad weather made it difficult for people to get to church, the determined members put on their boots and warm clothing and made their way to church regardless. The church was later moved from the quarters to its present location (Cameta front), but on the other side of the road.
The church had field agents who collected church dues from its members and reported the money raised to the secretary, giving each member credit for the amount paid. Field agents continued through 1980.
In February 1971, St. Paul Church was leveled by a severe tornado, destroying everything in its path. The church was rebuilt at its present location in 1972. At that time, the owner of the Cameta plantation, Mr. Hills, deeded the church the existing acre of property for fifty years for $1.00. The officers of the church when it was rebuilt were: Brother West "Bus" Lane, Brother Eddie Lewis, Brother Sim Cooper, Brother Henry Cosey, Brother Jack Johnson, and Sister Verdia Wesley Smith, Secretary. The trustee committee members for the rebuilding were: Mr. H.T. Thomas, Mr. Clabe Smith III, and Henry Cosey.
Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church is considered to be the "Mother Church" because the members of Eastern Star M.B. Church, Chapel of the Cross M.B. Church, Christian Light M.B. Church, Southdale M.B. Church, Pleasant Valley #2 M.B. Church, and Rose Hill M.B. Church all came out of St. Paul.
During the church's history, there have been seventeen pastors who can be accounted for. They were: Rev. H.T. Collins, Rev. Washington, Rev. Dick Warfield, Rev. Guss Johnson, Rev. W.H. Mell, Rev. A.C. Scott (who baptized Brother West Lane), Rev. J.H. Davenport, Rev. Zac Stanford, Rev. Mac Sanders (who baptized Rev. C.B. Smith), Rev. Johnson Gail (who left and returned—served two terms), Rev. H.S. Hobbs (who left and returned—served two terms), Rev. H.S. Moore, Rev. H.C. Hicks, Rev. C.C. Smith, Rev. Isaac Thomas, and Rev. C.B. Smith, who confessed Christ on August 7, 1935, was called into the ministry in 1945, and ordained in 1947.
Rev. C.B. Smith became pastor of St. Paul in the late 1960s and remained pastor until his death on June 29, 2009. He was a man of vision and courage, with great business ability. He could speak with authority when negotiating with businesspeople of all races, whether Caucasian or Jewish. He usually negotiated deals that were feasible for both the seller and the buyer. He was very knowledgeable of the Bible and could tell people, if they listened, what events would happen in the future. He was truly God-sent because he loved people and wanted them to grow in the knowledge and wisdom of Jesus Christ. People from all over came to hear him preach, teach, and counsel with them when needed. He lived a long, full life, and St. Paul's congregation greatly benefited from his wisdom and knowledge.
It took the St. Paul members a period of time to find another minister who could lead them. The church elected Rev. James Norals, who remained with the church for a short period of time.
Where are we now?
After a period of reflection and prayerful consideration, the church's members unanimously chose Rev. Therman Cunningham Jr. to take on the mantle of spiritual leadership in July 2016. His appointment brought fresh energy and direction to the church, allowing it to continue to grow and thrive. Rev. Cunningham’s leadership style is characterized by a deep commitment to both spiritual growth and community service. Known for his dynamic preaching and compassionate pastoral care, he has quickly gained the trust and respect of the congregation. His ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds has been a hallmark of his ministry. Under his guidance, St. Paul has expanded its outreach efforts, engaging with the local community through programs that address both spiritual and practical needs. Rev. Cunningham's emphasis on serving the broader community has strengthened St. Paul's reputation as a place of hope, healing, and love.In addition to his focus on service, Rev. Cunningham is known for his visionary approach to church growth. He encourages the congregation to think creatively and boldly about how they can fulfill their mission, both within the church walls and in the surrounding neighborhoods. His strategic focus on spiritual education, prayer, and discipleship has helped deepen the members' relationship with Christ while also ensuring the church remains relevant in an ever-changing world. Through his leadership, St. Paul has seen both growth in membership and an increase in engagement from its current members. Rev. Cunningham’s commitment to biblical teaching and his ability to inspire others has made him a beloved figure, not only within the church but also within the wider community. Under his care, the congregation has become more united and more focused on serving God’s will.Rev. Cunningham’s humility and passion for the Lord are evident in all he does. His work has brought a renewed sense of purpose and vitality to St. Paul, and he continues to lead with the same wisdom and vision that have long been characteristic of the church’s mission. As St. Paul continues to grow under his leadership, the foundation of faith and community remains strong, with Rev. Cunningham's ministry building upon it to take the church into a promising future.
