Church History

Pleasant Green Baptist Church was organized in 1864. Rev. Butler Harper, a man of God, noting the religious status of the people, saw his urgent duty and a glorious privilege. He collected the baptized believers together and met from house to house among early converts. Among some of the early worshippers was Brother Addison Haley.

These baptized believers built a place of worship on the corner of Tenth and Findlay Streets. It was completed and dedicated in the year of our Lord 1865. The people well and nobly followed the leadership of the pioneer, preacher, Rev. Butler Harper.

Founding Members

The members of the Deacon Board were as follows: Brothers – Alex Hunt, James Davidson, Dobson, William Wilson, Middleton Charity, Oliver, Breckenridge, Siceehote Preocher, and Theodore Carr. Among the sisters were: Seray Davidson, Eliza Farley, Charlotte Dickerson, Old Mother Jameson, Harriet Carr, Lucinda Chippey, Fannie Webster, Mother Spollest.

Over the years, many outstanding pastors played significant roles in the progress of the church. Among those who served, most often mentioned is Rev. B.R. Reid. He was a great soul, a gospel preacher, a leader, and a builder. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the leadership of Pastor Reid, the church purchased the lot at 1421 Waller Street, constructing an edifice in 1923. This location is still Pleasant Green's place of worship. While Pastor Reid now sleeps, the building stands as a memorial to the great man of God.

Continued Growth

In March 2003, Pleasant Green received a blessing when the new Senior Pastor, Clarence Parker, implemented several new programs, ministries, and physical improvements. Rev. Parker also helped to increase local and global outreach ministries. After 19 years of faithful service, Pastor Parker and First Lady Patricia Parker ended their ministry with PGBC on June 30, 2019, and… are moving on with the next season of their lives.

On March 30, 2021, Rev. Antonio Neely and First Lady Minister Veronica Neely accepted the call to be Pleasant Green's new senior pastor and first lady. The pastoral assignment began on May 2, 2021. Pastor Neely and First Lady have a combined 30+ years of increasing ministry experience. With great expectations from God, the future ministry under the leadership of Pastor Neely is bright. Pleasant Green has had 156 years of faithful service and is glad to have an anointed family.     

The congregation of Pleasant Green is grateful for those who laid the foundation and labored to make it a reality for us to celebrate today. As Paul wrote in Philippians 3:4, "We press toward the mark for the prize for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus!"