69 YEARS
OF HISTORY
Our History: How It All Began
Founded in faith and obedience, Second Baptist Church began on January 11, 1957, when eighteen believers gathered in the home of Lewis and Minnie Rawlings after being led by God to establish a new church. From humble beginnings—meeting in homes and a renovated boarding house—SBC steadily grew through prayer, sacrifice, and committed leadership.
Over the decades, SBC experienced continual spiritual and physical growth. The church acquired land,
constructed its first permanent sanctuary on Tatum Street, and expanded facilities under the leadership of successive pastors. Ministries flourished, deacons and ministers were ordained, and organizations such as the Willing Workers Club, Pastor’s Aid Club, and Youth Department played vital roles in strengthening the church’s mission and resources.
Major milestones included relocating to 1709 John Barrow Road, eliminating mortgage debt in 2001,
expanding seating capacity, constructing the Family Life Center, and later building the Dome worship
facility completed in 2014. SBC also embraced a season of “one church, two locations,” expanded
community outreach, and adapted through challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
In September 2022, God sent Dr. Maurice Watson to serve as Senior Pastor. Under his leadership, SBC has emphasized unity, transparency, growth, and community engagement. From 2022–2024, membership
increased significantly, baptisms grew, governance structures were strengthened, facilities improved, and outreach expanded across Little Rock and surrounding areas.
Today, SBC continues to fulfill its God-given assignment—growing spiritually, serving the community, and advancing the Kingdom—guided by the enduring vision captured in Pastor Watson’s call:
“Let’s Grow Together.”
