Other Ministries

At Fourth Street Missionary Baptist Church, ministry is not confined to the pulpit—it lives in the hearts and hands of every believer who serves. The following ministries reflect our commitment to holistic service, spiritual growth, and care for one another and our community. Each operates under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, grounded in Scripture, and aligned with our mission to be a Caring, Sharing, Fruit-Bearing Fellowship.

Trustees Ministry

Mission

The mission of the Trustee Ministry is, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, desires to seek, save the unsaved (Luke 19:10) and make disciples (Matthew 28:19–20), by demonstrating love, patience, kindness, compassion, helpfulness and tact in working with the Pastor, the congregation, the public and various venders for the upkeep of the Church property.

Purpose

To make recommendations to the Church with respect to repairs, maintenance, improvements, betterment and replacement of church property.

History

Formally called “The Board of Trustees”, this ministry has been in existence since the inception of the Fourth Street Missionary Baptist Church. The current chairperson is Sister Beulette Hooks and assistant chairperson is Deacon William Johnson.

Singles Ministry

Mission

Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, this ministry desires to seek, save the unsaved (Luke 19:10) and make disciples (Matthew 28:19–20), by demonstrating love, patience, kindness, compassion, helpfulness, and tact while working with those who are single.

Purpose

To minister to adult single members—including those never married, widows and widowers, divorcees, and single parents—by providing spiritual and personal support.

History

Organized under Pastor J.H. Flakes, Jr., with Sister Frances Ingram as the first chairperson, succeeded by Sister Deloris Daniels. The current chairperson is Sister Beulette Hooks, with Sisters Willa Spencer Cooper and Joann Zerangue as assistant chairpersons.

Church Clerk Ministry

Mission

To seek, save the unsaved and make disciples, while supporting the pastor and church leaders through accurate record-keeping and compassionate first-point-of-contact care.

Purpose

To maintain church records, membership databases, and official minutes of meetings, while serving as the welcoming point for new members.

History

This role has existed since the church’s founding. Notable Church Clerks include Deacon Samuel Collier, Sister Florene Crenshaw, Deacon Franklin Douglass, Sister Alice Turner, and Sister Jackie McCall.

Funeral Coordination Ministry

Mission

To lovingly and tactfully assist families as they prepare for homegoing services, reflecting the comfort and compassion of Christ.

Purpose

To provide structured and sensitive assistance during times of bereavement.

History

Evolving from the Clerk Ministry, this ministry was formalized around 2011. Sis. Beverly Davis currently serves as chair, following the leadership of Sis. Mildred Wynne. The name “Funeral Coordination Ministry” was approved by Pastor Johnnie Flakes III in 2019.

Benevolence Ministry

Mission

A pastoral care ministry under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, called to assist those in financial or crisis need with compassion and wisdom.

Purpose

To help members and non-members during times of hardship, as funds allow.

History

Led by various committed sisters over the years, including Louise Thompson, Katie Harris, and Robena Gaines Flakes. Currently chaired by Sister Linda Love.

Deacon Ministry

Mission

To support the pastor, unify the body, reach out to the hurting, and minister to the physical and spiritual needs of the church through prayer, service, and love.

Purpose

To serve as helpers to the Pastor and provide leadership for the congregation.

History

Founded in 1901, the Deacon Ministry has been a bedrock of leadership at Fourth Street. Early deacons included B.A. Parker (who built the first church house) and others. Honored leaders include Deacon Grant Turpin and Deacon Sam Collier. Currently chaired by Deacon Dorsey Stancil.

Usher Ministry

Mission

To joyfully welcome worshippers into the Lord’s house with friendliness and reverence, promoting a spirit of order and comfort.

Purpose

To assist the pastor, support worship services, and engage in ongoing evangelism and Christian education.

History

Known formerly as “The Usher Board,” the ministry has served since the early 1900s. Current chairperson is Sister Joann Zerangue.

Men and Women Ministry

Mission

To exemplify God's love and unity, making others feel welcome and receptive to Christ through fellowship and study.

Purpose

To bring men and women together to work in harmony, spreading the Gospel.

History

In 2006, under Pastor J.H. Flakes, Jr., the church began celebrating joint Men and Women’s Day. The ministry also hosts an annual retreat and is led by both male and female chairpersons.

Partners in Christ
Caring Ministry (PICCM)

Mission

To foster spiritual health and unity through love and service within the church body.

Purpose

To ensure every member is cared for through prayer, visits, celebration, and support—demonstrating love in

History

Evolved from the Mission in Action Ministry. PICCM was organized by Pastor J.H. Flakes, Jr., later co-led by Pastor J.H. Flakes III. Communities are structured by biblical names and led by team members. The ministry is integral to church life and discipleship.

Boys of Distinction

Mission

To guide young boys toward becoming godly men through mentorship, example, and leadership.

Purpose

To assist the Pastor in shepherding youth, led by appointed men of the church.

History

Established in 2012 by Pastor J.H. Flakes III, with leadership from Deacon Dorsey Stancil and later Deacon Lenton Pruitt. The ministry focuses on character, leadership, and discipleship.

Pastoral Relations Ministry

Mission

To show continual love, support, and appreciation for the pastor and his family as they faithfully serve the congregation.

Purpose

To ensure the pastor’s needs are not overlooked and that the church supports his leadership with honor and care.

Biblical Foundation:

Scriptures include 1 Corinthians 9:7–18 and John 21:15–17, reminding us that “the laborer is worthy of his hire.”

Youth Ministry
(Children, Youth & Drama Division)

Mission

To teach children and youth the ways of Christ through education, creativity, and spiritual mentorship.

Purpose

To develop young believers into committed disciples through programs like Bible study, religious plays, and tutoring.

Boy Scout Ministry

Mission

To raise boys into men of character by combining Christian values with the principles of Scouting.

Purpose

“To train up a child in the way he should go…” (Proverbs 22:6)

Biblical Foundation:

The Boy Scout Program has been a part of Fourth Street for over 50 years.

Church History Ministry

Mission

To preserve and document the rich history of the Fourth Street Missionary Baptist Church with accuracy and honor.

Purpose

From Sister L.C. Redding in 1946 to Sister Merrian Douglass today, the ministry is compiling a comprehensive “Documented Fact Book” covering 1900–1999.

Laymen Ministry

Mission

To empower men in Christian service through study, worship, and leadership.

Purpose

To enlist and train men and boys for meaningful service in the church.

History

Although records are incomplete, this ministry has long served as a vital part of the church’s leadership and outreach.

Prayer Warriors

Mission

To lift up the needs of the church, the pastor, and all who seek prayer through weekly intercession.

Purpose

To be faithful prayer intercessors on behalf of the church family and beyond.

History

Founded in 2009 under Rev. J.H. Flakes, Jr. Now includes a virtual prayer line open to members and friends from across the country.

Health Care Ministry

Mission

To provide compassionate care and guidance to members and guests with health-related needs, as led by the Holy Spirit.

Christian Education

Mission

To meet the educational needs of the Church and support every ministry through biblically grounded teaching and training.

Purpose

To evaluate teaching methods, provide leadership development, and support educational programming across age groups.

History

Previously known as The Christian Education Department. Leaders have included Deacons Elijah Whittlesey, Lucius Scott, and currently Sister Cassandra Richardson.

Church School

Purpose

To teach the Bible with clarity and application for spiritual growth and discipleship.

History

Dating back to the earliest days of the church, the Church School has nurtured generations. Current superintendent is Deacon Michael Davis.

Vacation Bible School

History & Purpose:

Held annually in June, VBS is a cornerstone of our Christian Education Ministry. Teachers and leaders over the years have made an indelible impact on children and families through joyful, Bible-based learning.