Central Baptist Church: Over 70 years of Faith and Growth
Welcome to the story of Central Baptist Church, a journey of faith, dedication, and growth that began over seven decades ago.
The Beginnings (1957-1963)
In the spring of 1957, Wilburn C. Ferguson, a committed Christian layman, moved to Syracuse, NY, from Tucson, Arizona, with a vision to establish a Southern Baptist mission. Through newspaper advertisements, he connected with other Southern Baptists in the area. On June 20, 1957, the first fellowship meeting was held at Ferguson’s home, marking the birth of the First Southern Baptist Church of Syracuse.
Sunday services initially took place in a vacant church in Cicero, NY, where 15 men, women, and children (5 families) gathered for worship. By July 14, 1957, the church called its first pastor, Reverend Paul Becker, and celebrated its first baptisms in October. On November 11, 1957, the church formally incorporated and adopted its first constitution.
In May 1958, the church purchased property on Cortland Avenue in Syracuse. By October 13, 1963, the congregation decided to change its name to Central Baptist Church, reflecting its mission to reach all people. Later that year, the church relocated to 1926 Midland Avenue.
A Legacy of Leadership (1961-1987)
Over the years, Central Baptist Church was led by several pastors, each bringing unique contributions:
- Reverend John Tollison (1961-1964) succeeded Rev. Becker, fostering growth and stability.
- Reverend T. Bruce Dellinger (1965) served briefly before being succeeded by Reverend Richard Bond in 1967, who emphasized personal evangelism.
- Reverend Dean Prewitt (1975) and Reverend Steve Turner (1975-1978) focused on discipleship and community growth.
- Reverend Leroy Gainey (1978-1987) led the church through its largest period of growth, introducing a food pantry, clothing distribution program, and expanding church property.
Renewed Vision and Growth (1988-Present)
In September 1988, Reverend Rickey Armstrong became pastor, overseeing significant facility improvements and property acquisitions. Following his tenure, Pastor Milton Kornegay initially served as Interim Pastor (1996-1998) before being officially called as the ninth pastor in 1998.
Under Pastor Kornegay’s leadership:
- The Central Baptist Bible Institute was founded in 2005 to deepen biblical teaching.
- The church emphasized expository preaching, counseling, and leadership training.
- Ministry growth prompted the church to relocate to 124 Alden St., Syracuse, NY on January 12, 2014.
Associate Pastors have also played a pivotal role in the church's development:
A Bright Future
Central Baptist Church remains steadfast in its mission to glorify God, disciple believers, and reach the Syracuse community with the Gospel. With a foundation rooted in faith and a heart for ministry, our story continues to unfold
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