Travelers Rest Baptist Church
Our History
Travelers Rest Missionary Baptist Church was founded in 1913 with Reverend Cephas and several founding members holding prayer meetings in a house on Reed Street. The church later moved to a rented building at South Madison and Levee Street, prepared by members with love and dedication.
In 1922, Reverend John L. Williams became pastor. Under his leadership, the church purchased property at 1922 Pearl Street and built a new church. During the first revival there, 27 souls were added. Church auxiliaries and missionary work grew during this period. He served until his death in 1931.
In 1932, Reverend J.H. (Joseph Henry) Williams became pastor. Despite financial hardships—including the loss of two church-owned houses in 1934—the church remained active and growing. A fire in 1970 destroyed the building, which was then rebuilt. Reverend J.H. Williams served faithfully until his death in 1972.
In 1973, Reverend Earnest Baldwin became the third pastor and served until his passing in 1991. Later in 1991, Reverend Thomas Bernard was elected as the fourth pastor. Under his leadership, the church expanded its ministries, became a full-time church in 1994, and incorporated in 1999, changing the name to Travelers Rest Baptist Church.
Major ministries established included:
- Mass Choir, Male Chorus, Church Nurse Ministry, Bible Classes, and Bus Ministry.
- Leadership ministries (Deacon, Trustee, Usher, Financial, etc.).
- The Grammar House, opened in 2000, provided tutoring and mentoring to local children.
In 2000, the church purchased the Bowmar Avenue Baptist Church facility to accommodate growth. The new location offered a
sanctuary for 800, 35 classrooms, and a fellowship hall.
On September 9, 2001, the church held its final service at 1922 Pearl Street and marched to the new location on Bowmar Avenue, celebrating with a Ribbon Cutting and Dedication Ceremony.
On September 17, 2021 Pastor Bernard passed and the search began for the fifth pastor of Travelers Rest.
On February 10, 2022, Dr. General Bryant delivered his first sermon at Travelers Rest Baptist Church. After several weeks of sermons from various ministers, the church selected Dr. Bryant as its new pastor on Easter Sunday, a symbolically powerful day of renewal and resurrection.
He was officially installed as the fifth pastor on August 14, 2022.
Since then, Dr. Bryant has led with spiritual vision, dedication, and a commitment to growth. His leadership has brought spiritual and structural transformation, ushering in a renewed era of faith, unity, and community engagement.
His legacy is one of restoration, progress, and purpose—a foundation that will continue to bless the church and community.
The legacy continues.
