Changing Lives in a Changing World for an Unchanging God
Experience a Relationship with God at St. Mary's Missionary Baptist Church | Parrish, FL
Join Us for Worship
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
Matthew 6:33
As Pastor, let me start by saying thank you for taking the time to visit our church website. I believe this will be the first step toward a loving and lasting relationship. When you visit St. Mary’s Missionary Baptist Church, you will discover a special place: a family-oriented church that has been a beacon in this community for over 147 years. Our goal is and will always be to change lives in a changing world for an unchanging God. Over the years, there have been many changes, yet we have stood the test of time because of our steadfast love for God and our genuine love and concern for this community and its people. We exist because of you and for you, and I hope you will come worship with us and experience God’s unconditional love. We welcome people from all walks of life to worship with us. At St. Mary’s, we have a saying that “Our doors swing open on welcoming hinges, and your seat will be vacant until you return.”
Eternally yours,
Rev Ricky Stephens, Pastor
Our History. Our Passion.
Embark on a journey through the rich history of St. Mary's Missionary Baptist Church, which began over 146 years ago with a group of visionary believers. From its humble beginnings in Parrish to its relocation to "On the Hill," our church has been a beacon of faith and hope. Through the leadership of dedicated pastors, each era has contributed to our spiritual heritage and community impact, reflecting our unwavering commitment to God's mission.
Experience Divine Grace, Our Transformative Services
Bible Study
Dive deeper into God's Word through our weekly Bible Study sessions held every Tuesday night. Led by knowledgeable and dedicated teachers, our Bible Studies offer an opportunity for in-depth exploration and discussion of various books and themes within the Bible. Whether you're a seasoned believer or new to the faith, you'll find a welcoming environment where questions are encouraged and spiritual growth is nurtured.
Sunday School
Sunday School is a cornerstone of our church's educational ministry, providing opportunities for spiritual growth and biblical learning for individuals of all ages. Our classes are tailored to different age groups, ensuring each attendee receives relevant teaching and fellowship. From interactive lessons for children to in-depth studies for adults, Sunday School serves as a time to deepen our understanding of God's Word and its application to our lives.
Sunday Morning Worship
Experience the rich tapestry of worship styles at St. Mary’s Missionary Baptist Church. Each Sunday, we offer a diverse range of worship formats, catering to the varied preferences of our congregation. From traditional Baptist services to contemporary praise and worship, there's something for everyone to connect with. Our worship services are characterized by vibrant music, heartfelt prayers, and dynamic preaching, all centered around the unchanging truth of God's Word.
Our Aim and Vision
At St. Mary’s Missionary Baptist Church, our aim is to change lives in a changing world for an unchanging God. Rooted in the timeless truths of Scripture, our vision is to be a church of proclamation, restoration, transformation, and celebration. We aspire to be a community where brokenness is healed, hope is restored, and lives are transformed by the power of the gospel. Through Christ-honoring praise and worship, we seek to glorify God and advance His kingdom here on earth.
Our Purpose
St. Mary's Missionary Baptist Church exists to share the gospel, build up believers, and honor God. We follow Jesus' commands to love God, love others, and make disciples. Our faith is firmly rooted in Scripture, affirming the triune God, the authority of the Bible, Jesus' deity, the Holy Spirit's work, and salvation through faith in Christ alone.
A Brief History of St. Mary's Missionary Baptist Church
Established over 146 years ago by a small group of devoted believers, St. Mary's Missionary Baptist Church has been a cornerstone of faith and community in Parrish. Under the guidance of dedicated leaders such as Reverend G.A. Peterson and Reverend G.W. Jones, the church has weathered changes and challenges, steadfast in its commitment to spreading the gospel and serving its members.
Throughout its rich history, St. Mary's has witnessed growth and transformation, from relocations and construction projects to spiritual revivals and leadership transitions. Today, under the leadership of Reverend Ricky Stephens, the church continues to thrive, embracing new opportunities for ministry and outreach while remaining rooted in its timeless values and mission.
As we look back on our journey, we are grateful for God's faithfulness and the unwavering support of our congregation. With a legacy of faith, service, and community, St. Mary's Missionary Baptist Church remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.
1 Peter 5:2-3 (KJV) - Feed the flock of God, which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.
Much Prayer, Much Power
Prayer is the heartbeat of our church. We believe in the transformative power of prayer to bring healing, guidance, and spiritual renewal. At St. Mary’s, prayer is not just a ritual but a vital connection to God. We encourage our members to pray fervently and consistently, trusting in God's faithfulness to answer according to His perfect will. Our prayer meetings and gatherings serve as times of unity, where we lift up our concerns, joys, and praises before the Lord.
Church Ministries and Community Outreaches
Our church is committed to serving both our members and the wider community through a variety of ministries and outreach initiatives. From men's and women's ministries to youth programs and community service projects, there are numerous opportunities to get involved and make a difference. Whether it's feeding the hungry, providing shelter to the homeless, or ministering to the sick, we seek to embody the love of Christ in tangible ways, reaching out with compassion and grace to those in need.
The Growing Community of Parrish
Nestled within the vibrant community of Parrish, St. Mary’s Baptist Church has been a beacon of hope and faith for over 147 years. As the Parrish community continues to grow and thrive, we are grateful for the opportunity to play a vital role in its spiritual and social fabric. From our involvement in local outreach initiatives to our partnerships with community organizations, we are committed to being a positive force for good, making a lasting impact on the lives of those around us.
A Warm Welcome From Our Pastor
Pastor Ricky Stephens extends a heartfelt welcome to all visitors and members of St. Mary's Missionary Baptist Church, sharing his vision of fostering a nurturing, spiritual environment where everyone feels valued and inspired. Emphasizing the church's commitment to faith, community service, and personal growth, Pastor Stephens invites you to join a congregation that believes in the power of God's love to transform lives.
Our Schedule
Weekly Services
Sunday School - 10 AM
Sunday Worship - 11 AM
Communion - 1st Sunday of every month, following the morning service.
Tuesday Bible Study - 7 PM
Location
St. Mary's Missionary Baptist Church
11801 Erie Road Parrish, FL 34219
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Embracing Generosity: Tithing and Giving
At St. Mary's Missionary Baptist Church, we uphold the sacred practice of tithing and the joy of giving as integral parts of our faith journey. We encourage our members to tithe faithfully and give cheerfully, understanding that their contributions support vital ministries, outreach efforts, and the overall mission of our church. Through prayerful and intentional giving, we cultivate generous hearts, recognizing that our financial stewardship is an expression of worship and obedience to God. Whether through in-person offerings or convenient online platforms, every donation makes a significant impact, allowing us to continue spreading the love of Christ and serving our community with compassion and grace.
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