A Legacy of Faith, Vision, and Victory
Planted in Faith — June 7, 1935
On the corner of Hayes and Gevers Streets in San Antonio, Texas, Antioch Missionary Baptist Church was born. Fifty-three believers few with formal education but rich in faithgathered with a bold conviction: to proclaim Jesus Christ, crucified, buried, and risen again. Presided over by Dr. C.F.C. Curry, the church called its first pastor, Rev. Rufus Wilson, whose unwavering motto declared, “God is able.”
What began in humble surroundings a tent on Center Street, then a laundry building, then an abandoned dairy renovated for worship became sacred ground where lives were transformed and hope was restored.
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Milestones of Growth and Impact
1935–1952 |
The Wilson Years: Foundation & Fervor
- Church established with 53 charter members
- Worship moved from tent to renovated permanent site
- 1947: Major remodeling project ($65,000)
- Many called into ministry and sent across the nation
- 17 years of faithful leadership
Like the church at Antioch in Scripture, the Word went forth—and the Lord added daily.
1952–1993 |
The Rector Era: Expansion & Influence
At just 22 years old, Rev. John Joseph Rector became pastor one of the youngest ever called to a major church.
Key milestones under Pastor Rector:
- Mortgage of $16,000 liquidated
- Membership and ministry growth surged
- 1968: Developed Antioch Village Housing Community ($1.25 million), recognized by HUD as one of the city’s most outstanding operations
- 1971: Secured the largest loan for an African American congregation in Texas at that time to build a new sanctuary
- 1974: Sanctuary completed (after construction challenges including an underground stream) the sanctuary where Antioch worships today
Pastor Rector faithfully served 40 years, leaving a powerful spiritual legacy.
1993–2009 |
The Walker Years: Vision & Transformation
Following Pastor Rector’s passing, Rev. Dr. E. Thurman Walker became pastor in a seamless, Spirit-led transition.
Under his leadership:
- 1993: Record-setting $500,000 budget year
- 1995: Founded Antioch Christian Academy (20 years of educating mind, body, and spirit)
- 2000: Established Antioch Community Transformation Network (ACTN), a 501(c)(3)
- Initiated a $7.5 million Family Life, Education & Community Complex
- 2005: Opened 21,212 sq. ft. Sports Complex
Dr. Walker also earned his Doctor of Ministry degree while leading Antioch and launched numerous outreach initiatives that impacted the city and beyond. His 16 years of leadership left a lasting national footprint.
2009–Present |
The Kemp Years: Innovation & Continuity
In 2009, Rev. Dr. Kenneth R. Kemp became Senior Pastor, continuing Antioch’s legacy of faith and forward movement.
Under Pastor Kemp’s leadership:
- Church budget exceeded $2 million within his first year
- Monthly additions of new members
- Launched Recharge Zone contemporary worship
- Expanded youth, young adult, and discipleship ministries
- Established endowed scholarship at ITC/Morehouse School of Religion (2014)
- Hosted the National Baptist Convention of America Mid-Winter Board (2019)
- Added key ministry staff positions
Resilience in Modern Times
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, Antioch pivoted swiftly:
- Enhanced hybrid worship services
- Drive-through rallies and support services
- Transitioned to online giving (now primary giving platform)
- Continued worship through winter storm crises
In 2023, Antioch replaced its HVAC system and upgraded sanctuary lighting at a cost exceeding $360,000. In June 2025, during our 90th Anniversary Celebration, those notes were burned—symbolizing both financial faithfulness and God’s continued provision.
Over 90 Years of Love, Leadership, and Light
For more than nine decades, Antioch has stood firm on one truth:
“Antioch is Love.”
We have never wavered in crisis.
We have never abandoned our calling.
We have never stopped proclaiming Christ.
Souls continue to be saved.
Lives continue to be transformed.
Our community continues to be strengthened.
We are a diverse, Spirit-filled, Christ-centered church where everyone belongs and God is glorified.
Come Grow With Us
Whether you are seeking faith, family, purpose, or a place to serve there is a place for you at Antioch.
Come grow in Christ.
Come grow in community.
Come grow in love.
Antioch Missionary Baptist Church where legacy meets destiny, and the best is yet to come.