St. James Missionary Baptist Church Celebrates 150 years

On the green banks of Gonzales County's Peach Creek, 150 years ago, in what is now known as Little New York, Bascom Lake Church was founded. The church, now known as St. James Missionary Baptist Church was founded by Reverend Boyd James in 1867. For 12 years Rev. James conducted primitive services under a brush arbor, until a former slaveowner gave the community money for two acres of land and a school house. The school is no longer standing and the church is housed in a building erected in 1962.

On Sunday, St. James Missionary Baptist Church pastor James Sorrell and his small congregation were joined by visitors from a 148-year-old church in Victoria, Palestine Baptist Church. The visitors included the pastor Gregory Wyatt and members of the church choir. The two choirs performed a number of beautiful praise hymns.

Rev. Sorrell praised his congregation for keeping the church going for 150 years.

"Today we gather to celebrate 150 years of God's gracious acts for his people at this place," Rev. Sorrell said. "As God has called his people himself, guided them through life, and brought may home to himself here. At St. James Missionary Baptist Church we are reminded of God's saving acts toward his ancient people in Israel. Thus, their experiences form the theme for our worship this special day."

Rev. Wyatt spoke about change and growth.

"Where would we be without God's faithfulness?" Wyatt asked. "I am grateful and feel most blessed to be here, for such a special time as this, as this church celebrates 150 years. I thank God for having his hand upon this church for so many years. He has allowed St. James to be a mainstay in this community and helped the church to continue ministries."

Numerous church deacons and visiting deacons were present and offered up many prayers and accompanying spirituals.

Gonzales Mayor Connie Kacir read the city's proclamation for the church and prayed for the congregation.

Kacir's proclamation outlined the formative years of the church and gave the city's support in the church's on-going praise and worship as Gonzales County's oldest African American Church. Kacir asked the congregation to join hands across the aisle and give thanks for the past and a pray for a hopeful future.