Over 158 Years of Faith, Service, and Spiritual Growth Est. 1867 – Greenville, Florida Founding and Early Years For over 158 years, New Zion Missionary Baptist Church has stood as a beacon of light, pointing men and women, boys and girls, toward the Heavenly Way.

 

Amid world turmoil, societal changes, and spiritual uncertainty, New Zion has remained steadfast—anchored in the promise of Christ: “Upon this Rock I build my Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” – Matthew 16:18New Zion’s roots trace back to 1867, when it was formed out of New Chapel Baptist Church. The church’s earliest foundation was laid in a northeast Greenville neighborhood known as “The Sixteen.”  Under the leadership of Rev. Taylor, a small group of believers relocated the congregation to its current site, where the first structure—affectionately remembered as “Old New Zion”—was established.

 

In its early decades, New Zion served as more than a house of worship, leaving a lasting legacy in education and community impact. It became a cornerstone of education for Black children in and around Greenville. For many, New Zion was their first school—a sacred space for learning and growth during times when opportunities were limited. Even after the establishment of Greenville Training School, the church continued to host Baccalaureate and Commencement Exercises, solidifying its lasting impact on generations of students and families.

 

Pastoral Leadership: A Lineage of Faith Throughout its history, New Zion has been shepherded by a faithful succession of devout and Christ-centered pastors. These men of God preached the gospel with boldness and compassion so that all could hear of Jesus, know His goodness, and witness His works:

 

The Bridges and Curry Eras: Building and Expansion. In 1960, under Rev. Columbus Bridges, a new church edifice was constructed and dedicated to the glory of God on April 23, 1961. In 1971, the church entered a new chapter under Reverend C.C. Curry, who would serve faithfully for 36 years. His tenure brought both spiritual and structural growth. Renovation Highlights under Rev. Curry: included a 1981 (Phase I): Church auditorium remodeled; new lighting installed, 1988–1989 (Phase II): New roof, brick exterior, new steeple, annex porch, and updated signage, 1989: Carpeting, new drapery over the baptismal pool, and a hand-painted mural, 1992: Installation of a modern sound system, 2009: Sidewalk, handicap-accessible ramp, and designated parking spaces Rev. Curry also served as Moderator of the First Bethlehem Baptist Association, where he was instrumental in the rebuilding of the Baptist Student Center at Florida A&M University. Following his transition from labor to reward, the New Zion family fondly remembers him as a tireless servant and spiritual father.

 

As a Beacon for Worship and Community Life New Zion has long been a spiritual and communal hub, opening its doors for: Weddings, funerals, baptisms, and baby dedications, Trial sermons, family reunions, and class worship services, Ministers, Deacons, and Laymen Training Union services, Hosting two First Bethlehem Baptist Association sessionsNew Zion’s ministries have included: Sunday School & Bible Study, Board of Deacons & Deaconess Board, Youth, Adult & Male Choirs, Four Usher Boards, Pastor’s Aide Club & Youth Department, Home Mission Society, Men’s & Women’s Ministries, Elders Care & Young Workers for Christ

 

After an extended pastoral search, in April 2012, God sent Rev. Keith R. Cloud, Sr. to New Zion. He was unanimously elected and faithfully accepted the call to lead with clarity, compassion, and conviction. Guided by the vision: “Equipping and Developing God’s People to be Effective Christians in a Place Where the Worship is Exciting and the Word is Explained.” Rev. Cloud has brought renewed energy and direction to New Zion, reinforcing the church’s motto: “A Church of Unity – We’re Better Together.” “Raising the Standard – As We Learn to Do All Things Well.” He continues to lead the congregation under the theme:BECOMING: Better, Excited about ministry, Confident in our walk with Christ, Open-hearted in our outreach, motivated in assisting our community, Innovative and inspirational, Never wavering in our faith, Giving God the glory always., New Zion has never faltered, built on the Rock throughout trials, transitions, and triumphs. We declare with boldness: Persecution has not crushed us. Power has not overtaken us. Time has not diminished us. We are built on a firm foundation—THE ROCK IS JESUS. As we celebrate over 158th years, we give God all the glory for what He has done, is doing, and will continue to do through New Zion Missionary Baptist Church.“To God be the glory, for the things He has done.”