History of Our Church

In 1926 the New Zion Baptist Church ministry was established. A 45 year old business-minded preacher by the name of Squire Simms answered the call of the Almighty God to become the founding Pastor of a small congregation of believers that would begin this great church ministry.

In 1939, some 13 years after she was founded, the New Zion Baptist Church acquired what would become her first permanent house of worship, in a small building located at 1745 Looney Street in the Allendale section of the city of Shreveport, Louisiana. Unfortunately, sometime over the next few years, the church existed in name only. By the beginning of 1952, New Zion had no pastor, nor deacons, and only a few congregants. New Zion seemed destined to fade into history. Around the middle of 1952, New Zion had her rebirth under the leadership of Pastor Angus Webber. Under Pastor Webber's leadership, efforts were made to purchase and remodel the existing building which was completed in August 1956. A second remodeling was done in 1958, with the second note burning taking place in 1959. The church grew under the leadership of Pastor Webber.

After the death of Rev. Webber he was succeeded by Rev. Richard Smith. The congregation had outgrown its Looney Street home and as a result under Pastor Smith's leadership the church moved to 5804 Southern Avenue.

In August 1986 Rev. Richmond Nash was called as pastor of our church. Under his leadership, the church began to experience a significant growth in its membership.

In June of 1990, Rev. Gregory Kirby was installed as the new pastor. Under his leadership, membership increased along with various ministries. In January of 1997 Rev. Philip Williamson who was serving as assistant pastor was elected as pastor of the New Zion Baptist Church. Under his leadership, New Zion became more structured and with a focus on missions. In May 1997, New Zion formed the NZBC Urban Corporation which is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit corporation for the purpose of expanding the church's various ministries.

From its inception, this ministry has been a beacon in the lives of many pepole. Hearts have been touched and souls have been saved through the work that God has allowed this body of believers to accomplish.

Our church is an Acts 1:8 church foucsing on our Jerusalem, Judea, Samaris and the ends of the earth. As such we have been involved in missions in our city, state, nation, and overseas.

New Zion is an active member of the Northwest Louisiana Baptist Association.