Humble Beginnings:
The Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church was founded during the year 1883 at the
place where Bethany branch empties into the San Bernard River. The first meetings
were held in a brush arbor. A building was later built at that location and worship was
carried on there until that building was moved to the church’s present location at Farm
to Market Road 2919 and Battle Road during the year 1929.
The founding pastor was Reverend Henry Towns of Wallis, Texas. Fifteen (15) pastors
have served Little Zion over its 136-year history. Each pastor contributed in his own
way as the Holy Spirit permitted. This church has been served well by these pastors and
many saints, some that have gone to their rewards but many remain to this day.

The Past:
Many great revivals have been held during the history of Little Zion, the first on record
was the 1921 revival under Rev. H. C. Cashaw others followed over the years. The most
successful revival as far as souls being added to the church was a revival in 1987 that
was preached by Rev. J. E. Booker, pastor of St. Peters Rock Baptist church, Little
Rock, Arkansas. During that revival a total of 42 souls were added to the church 29 of
those were candidates for baptism.
A major remodeling took place in 1943 under Rev. J. T. Tolbert. Little Zion was rebuilt
in 1972 under Pastor C. N. Means. Pastor Means always focused on saving souls.
There are a number of men who were members of Little Zion that was called to preach
the Gospel. To name some that went on to become pastors: Rev. Clarence Irvin Sr., Rev.
W. H. Banks, Rev. Broderick Sanford Sr. (January 1987) and Rev. Anthony Brown (March
1990).

The Present:
Little Zion continue to make history under our present pastor Reverend Doctor Richard
Booker who has served The Little Zion Family for over 44 years and is the longest
serving pastor in the church’s history. Under Pastor Booker several major building
programs and remolding programs have taken place. In 1986 a completely new sanctuary
was constructed and later the old building was remodeled, a parsonage was built, a bus
barn was completed, and a multipurpose building is presently under construction.
Multiple ministries are presently functioning and preaching and teaching is going forth
regularly.

The Future:
Land has been acquired for future expansion of the campuses. The Little Zion campus
has grown from a 1-acre campus to approximately 4 acres. The development of
ministries has been the main focus over most the church history. In spite of all that we
do to make history, ultimately it is His Story that is of the utmost importance.