Who We Are

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Second Macedonia Baptist Church was organized in 1938 by the late Reverend Marion Reed, the late Mr. Evan Hicks, Sr., the late Mr. Jack Davis, and the late Mr. Walter Lee. The church was incorporated on December 15, 1941. In its early years, faithful members worshiped in the basement of New Zion Baptist Church in Elizabeth, New Jersey, fervently praying for God’s guidance and growth. 

As the congregation expanded, services were held at several locations throughout Elizabeth, including First Street, Bond and Pine Streets, and 109 Fulton Street.

Following the passing of Reverend Reed on March 28, 1971, the church remained without a pastor for just over a year. Through prayer and unity, the congregation called Reverend Willie Wells, Sr., who began serving as Pastor in April 1972. Under his leadership, the church experienced spiritual and financial growth, leading to the purchase of its permanent home in August 1974. The congregation moved into the original structure, now known as the Genesis Building, located at 1251 Fairmount Avenue, Elizabeth, New Jersey. 

By March 1, 1984, the final mortgage payment was made, and the church obtained full ownership of the property.

During this period of expansion, Second Macedonia established and strengthened its ministries, including the Senior Choir, Gospel Chorus, Youth Choir, Nurses’ Unit, and multiple outreach and discipleship programs. The church also enhanced its facilities with the installation of a new pulpit, baptism pool, central air conditioning, expanded choir section, and new musical instruments.

In November 2004, Reverend Joe Louis Adair II was installed as Pastor following a period of prayer and congregational leadership. Under his guidance, Second Macedonia continued to grow in ministry and community impact. The church expanded its outreach through youth programs, scholarship initiatives, food and clothing ministries, disaster relief efforts, and partnerships with the American Red Cross and FEMA, serving as a designated disaster relief location during times of crisis.

The church demonstrated resilience through significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and storm-related damage caused by Hurricane Ida in 2021. Despite these trials, worship continued, financial stability was maintained, and the church mortgage was fully paid off in 2021.

After 19 years of faithful service, Reverend Adair was called home to be with the Lord in 2023, leaving a lasting legacy of servant leadership, strong faith, and community transformation.

In December 2025, the congregation prayerfully elected Rev. Joe L. Pickett, Jr. as Pastor-Elect, marking a new chapter in the continued legacy and future vision of Second Macedonia Baptist Church as it remains committed to worship, discipleship, and service to the community.