Church History 

In 1916, Reverend William Hillman and 57 members of Springhill Baptist Church left the parent church in pursuit of a vision to establish a new congregation, Grace Baptist Church of East Springfield.  A temporary site was selected at the B. Jackson Hall at 21st and Thelma Streets, and the first Sunday in August 1916 marked its first official service.  

When Rev. Hillman fell ill, the Rev. W.C. Brown of Tabernacle Baptist Church was selected by Rev. W.M. Smith to help organize the new congregation and install the various officers and boards.  In February 1917, after the passing of Rev. Hillman, Rev. Smith was chosen as the first active pastor.  Under his leadership, many new members were added and auxiliaries were formed. The site at 1608 East 21st was also purchased and erected.  In 1923, Rev. Smith accepted another position, and from 1923-1940, the church had the following pastors, Rev. L. Mannings, Rev. J. Lipfot, Rev.W.C. Callaway, and Rev. L.C. Way. 

In 1940, the 24 year old congregation called Rev. B.F. Brown, a former deacon of the church, as their leader.  Under his 28 years of service, the church charter was secured, the old wooden building was renovated and cleared of debt, and a new edifice was built. After Rev. Brown’s passing in December 1968 up until April 27, 1969, the Rev. Josey served as interim pastor, assisted by Rev. W.M. Mims.  

On April 28, 1969, the congregation called Rev. John A. Payne as pastor.  He was installed on June 29, 1969 by his father in the ministry, Dr. J.C. Sams, who was the pastor of Second Missionary Baptist Church.  In 1996, under Rev. Payne’s tenure, the church moved to its new sanctuary at 1553 East 21st Street. 

On January 25, 2004, the congregation elected Rev. John J. Devoe, Jr. as the ninth pastor of Grace Baptist Church of East Springfield.  He has provided a unique blend of teaching, leadership, and fellowship to transcend Grace’s legacy as a beacon of hope in this community.  We are blessed to have leadership committed to reaching mankind through Christ’s precepts and principles.          

Our Mission 

To seek the salvation of the lost, through witnessing and preaching the Gospel of Christ by energizing a multitude of servants and equipping them for evangelism, discipleship and membership, so that the Kingdom of God will be glorified. 

To provide food for the hungry, water for the thirsty, shelter for the stranger, clothing for the naked, and to give visitation to the sick and those who are incarcerated.  

Our Vision 

To serve our community by providing spiritual growth, healthcare, housing, employment, youth development and economic development as we minister to the total man.  We believe that through public and private partnerships, we can improve, enhance, empower, build, and redevelop this community. We hope to promote self-sufficiency and improve the quality of life for the people who live, work, worship, and attend school in this community.