About us
The Griggs Chapel Baptist Church had its beginning in the year of 1892. A group of faithful Christians sought the guidance of Rev. A. R. Griggs and Rev. S. E. J. Watson to aid them in establishing a house of worship. They assembled in the home of Bro. And Sis. James Boyed and under the leadership of Rev. Griggs and Rev. Watson, Griggs Chapel Baptist Church had its birth. The church was named in honor of Rev. A. R. Griggs. Rev. Watson was chosen at the first pastor. He served for two years with the following charter members: Rev. and Mrs. S. E. J. Watson, Mr. and Mrs. Fleming, and Mr. and Mrs. James Boyed. Griggs Chapel has given birth to a number of local churches including Roe’s Chapel, True Fellowship, Peaceful Zion, Unity Baptist Church, and New Unity.
Our Beginning
Since the year of 1892, many ministers have given their service willingly as under-shepherds to Griggs Chapel Baptist Church. The first pastor, Rev. S. E. J. Watson served from 1892 – 1894. He was followed by many, including: Rev. S. R. Simmons Rev. Willie Sutton, Rev. Abner Taylor, Rev. John Ayers, Rev. R. T. Simmons, Rev. A. W. Moss, Rev L. H. Harvey, and Rev. F. D. Roe. Rev Roe in 1925 was successful in the relocation of the church from Samuel’s Farm (White Rock Lake Area) to its present location. Throughout this time, Griggs Chapel grew spiritually, financially, and physically. Rev. Roe’s pastorate was followed by those of Rev. G. D. Davis, Rev. Evans, Rev. E. S. Cook, Rev. T. H. Wicks, and Rev. Sammie Davis. Under the leadership of Rev. Davis, the structure was renovated in 1962, with the addition of a new wing and educational facilities. The Rev. H. L. Alexander followed Rev. Davis. In 1966, he resigned as pastor, leaving Griggs Chapel without leadership. In 1967, God sent Rev. H. D. Webb, Sr., to be the next pastor. Rev. H. D. Webb, Sr., served until his death in 2007.
Our Legacy
In the early years of Rev. Webb’s dynamic leadership, additional property was purchased, debts were liquidated, and a building fund program was activated for future expansion. The deacons, trustees, and the pastor secured a ten year mortgage, leading to the erection of the present building. The sanctuary and educational facility was constructed under his leadership and officially dedicated on April 2, 1978. God blessed Griggs Chapel to pay off the loan in four years and nine months, using Rev. Webb to administer a plan to do so. This accomplishment resulted from the divine guidance and obedience to God and the willingness of the membership to follow Pastor Webb’s leadership. He is a fervent gospel preacher, teacher, counselor, husband, father, and friend. Griggs Chapel’s historic ground breaking ceremony for a time capsule took place near the cornerstone of the church on December 13, 1992. The time capsule was buried in 1993, containing the church history, Centennial Souvenir Book, and membership memorabilia. It is to be sealed for 50 years, undisturbed until the year 2043.
Our Future
Rev. Dr. H.D. Webb Sr., gave his life as a offering to God as Pastor of Griggs Chapel Baptist Church for almost 40 years. On March 5, 2007 Pastor Webb was called from labor to reward. We the members of Griggs Chapel shall cherish the memories of this great man, father, leader and teacher. A search for a new leader started and almost three years later February 28, 2010 the church was led by God to call Rev. Ernest Charles Wilson as the new leader to carry the church to the next level. After leading Griggs Chapel for over ten years, Pastor Wilson served over ten years. After Rev. Wilson led us during the pandemic, he resigned in 2022. In 2023, God sent Bishop Cedric D. Beard, Jr., to be the next pastor.
