(901) 744-0345 Info@SaintLukeMBC.com 1641 Keating St, Memphis, TN 38114
Memphis, Tennessee

Our History

Over a century of faith, service, and community rooted in the heart of Memphis.

Est. 1893

A Church Born to Serve

Saint Luke Missionary Baptist Church was established in 1893 in Memphis, Tennessee — founded on a deep conviction that the Gospel of Jesus Christ must be lived out in the community, not just proclaimed from the pulpit.

For over 130 years, Saint Luke has stood as a pillar of faith in Memphis, weathering decades of change while holding fast to its mission of spiritual growth, community welfare, and the love of God.

From its earliest days, the church has been committed to being a place where all are welcomed, the Word is preached without compromise, and the needs of the surrounding community are met with compassion and action.

130+
Years of Ministry
29+
Years Under Pastor Brown
1893
Year Founded
Saint Luke Missionary Baptist Church
1893
Established
“Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.”
— Isaiah 58:12 (NIV)

Milestones of Faith

1893

The Church is Founded

Saint Luke Missionary Baptist Church is established in Memphis, Tennessee, beginning a legacy of faith-driven community service that would last more than a century.

Pastor Brown can add more detail about the founding story here.
Early Years

Growing Roots in Memphis

Through the early decades, Saint Luke established itself as a cornerstone of the Memphis community — a place of worship, refuge, and fellowship for generations of families.

Add early church history, former pastors, or key moments from this era.
1991

Pastor Ron Brown Called to Lead

In March 1991, Rev. Ronald Brown was selected as Senior Pastor of Saint Luke Missionary Baptist Church. Under his leadership, the church has experienced remarkable growth in membership, ministries, and community impact — a tenure now spanning more than 29 years.

Outreach

Adopt-A-School Partnership

Saint Luke adopted Bethel Grove Elementary School — directly across the street — through Shelby County Schools' Adopt-a-School program. The church provides uniforms, school supplies, backpacks, mentoring, and meals for students and staff.

Today

Serving Memphis & Beyond

Today, Saint Luke continues its mission from 1641 Keating St — operating a food pantry, clothing closet, daycare ministry, and weekly worship services that inspire and equip the congregation to go out and share God's love with the world.

Serving the Whole Person

Saint Luke has always believed that ministry extends beyond the four walls of the church. We are in the helping business.

Bethel Grove School

Partnering with the elementary school across the street — providing supplies, mentoring, and meals through the Adopt-a-School program.

Food Pantry

Maintaining a food pantry to help feed less-fortunate families in the surrounding neighborhood, funded by members and friends of the church.

Clothes Closet

A clothes closet available to those in need in our community — meeting practical needs as an expression of the love of Christ.

Pastor Ron Brown

Shepherded by Rev. Ronald Brown

Since March 1991, Pastor Ron Brown has faithfully led Saint Luke Missionary Baptist Church with diligence, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the Word of God.

Pastor Brown's vision has always been to shepherd the attending flock in terms of being the caretaker for their spiritual, educational, and physical well-being — training up soldiers in the Army of the Lord.

Under his leadership, the church has grown in depth and impact, expanding its ministries and community outreach while staying rooted in the Gospel that has defined Saint Luke since 1893.

Serving faithfully since 1991