The Beginning:

In the year of 1939, Southern Baptist Church was organized to do the will of God. Meeting in the name of Jesus and being inspired to do His will, Rev. Fred Hay and his loving wife, Mabel Hay united in the home of Deacon and Mrs. George Ford, at 339 Bristol Street in Brooklyn, NY. Present at this first meeting was Rev. and Mrs. Hay, Deacon and Mrs. George Ford, Rev. George Rucker, Deacon and Mrs. Alfonso Hay, Deacon and Mrs. Butterfield, Deacon and Mrs. Grays, Brother Joseph Jenkins and Sister Florence Wright.

Through inspiration, diligence and perseverance of souls the small band of Christian Soldiers grew and could infrequently be contained in available quarters, hence they were to move time and time again as Rev. Hay constantly ministered unto and counseled throughout the community of Brownsville at large, comforting his flock wherever he went.

The church's name (Southern Baptist) was the God inspired choice of a devoted servant, Mrs. Fannie Ford.

When they were finally relocated at 668 Rockaway Avenue after having been at Watkins Street, Osborn Street, Bristol Street and Glenmore Ave, they began to plan for one more move: a move to a permanent church home. He proceeded now at an almost feverish pace, desiring greatly to reward his members for their continued faith in God and in him. "Except that we accept Christ, be reborn and come as little children, we can not enter the Kingdom of Heaven." Rev. Hay believed and lived these words. He was indeed to realize this desire for God granted him the moving of the church from 668 Rockaway Avenue to 885 Hopkinson Avenue on Easter Sunday, April 18, 1965.

Rev. Fred Hay fought a good fight, won a great battle and kept the faith. On August 18, 1965, a powerful preacher and well-loved spiritual leader was called by God to higher service.

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