Gilfield Missionary Baptist Church Church History

Rehoboth Church was originally organized in the year 1851, during a time when the social and cultural landscape of the American South was deeply divided. Despite these divisions, permission was eventually granted for enslaved individuals to attend services and become members of the congregation. This marked an important, though limited, step toward inclusion within the church community.

According to records documented by the Choctaw Historical Society (1980 edition), Rehoboth Church had a membership that included approximately 120 Black individuals. These members actively participated in the life of the church, contributing to its growth and spiritual vitality during a challenging period in history.

In December of 1868, a significant transition began to take place. The Black members of Rehoboth Church were formally asked to take letters of dismissal and organize themselves into a separate congregation. They were also encouraged to begin the process of constructing their own place of worship. However, during this transitional period, they were graciously permitted to continue using the Rehoboth Church building—primarily attended by the white congregation—until their new organization was fully established.

By May of 1870, a committee was appointed by Rehoboth Church to assist and advise the newly forming Black congregation. This committee provided guidance on the best course of action for building their own church and becoming an independent body of believers. After several years of preparation and progress, in 1874, official letters of dismissal were granted to the Black members, allowing them to formally organize as a separate church.

The early beginnings of this new congregation were humble yet deeply rooted in faith and determination. Worship services were first held under a simple brush arbor, reflecting both the limited resources and strong spiritual commitment of the members. Within a few months, their dedication led to the construction of a modest frame building, providing a more permanent place for worship and fellowship.

As a result of these efforts, Gilfield Missionary Baptist Church was officially established in 1874. The church quickly became a cornerstone of the community, serving not only as a place of worship but also as a center for unity, resilience, and hope. Reverend Daniel Wilson was appointed as the first pastor, providing leadership and spiritual guidance during the church’s formative years.

On November 16, 1885, an important legal matter concerning the church property was resolved. Ed McCall, acting as the administrator of the estate of the late John Cuny, executed a deed granting five acres of land to the deacons of Gilfield Missionary Baptist Church. This deed was issued to replace the original document, which had been lost over time, thereby securing the church’s rightful ownership of the land and ensuring its continued presence for future generations.