Church History
Norton Avenue began in a small structure that formerly existed across the street from the Willie Wee Learning Center. God’s incredible blessings have allowed Norton Avenue to grow and prosper spiritually and physically since its inception. As stated in 1Corinthians 2:9: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined the things that God has prepared for those who love him.”
And so it is with immeasurable appreciation, unlimited thankfulness, and boundless gratitude that Norton Avenue First Baptist Church “marks off” and “sets aside” this time to openly and plainly acknowledge the countless blessings from God that we have received and enjoyed and shared through fellowship, evangelism, ministry, and service to others over these 60 years. To God be the unspeakable and matchless glory!
The first pastor and first lady who served at Norton Avenue when the church was established in 1958 were Reverend and 1st Lady Jordan. Since that time, several other distinguished pastors have served at Norton Avenue First Baptist Church, including:
Reverend & 1st Lady Wilmer Wright
Reverend & 1st Lady Thomas
Reverend & 1st Lady Jones
Reverend & 1st Lady Buford
Reverend & 1st Lady Powell
Reverend & 1st Lady Knox
Reverend & 1st Lady Blue
Reverend & 1st Lady Walter & Dianne Prince, Jr. (1989-1992)
Reverend & 1st Lady Willie CormyLene Williams (interim pastor)
Reverend & 1st Lady James & Sheila Evans III (1993 – Present)
No Longer Bound / Church House
No Longer Bound Prevention and Training Services (NLB) started in 1985 as a grassroots community-based prevention services organization; services were provided by volunteers. It was initially called the Minority Communities Coordinating Council. The building, located at 1230 Norton Avenue, was purchased in 1995. In 1991, NLB became a funded prevention agency, offering programs and alternative activities free to the low-income community. In 1993, NLB was incorporated. No Longer Bound relocated to its new facility at 5616 Mitchell Road in late 2021. The facility was renamed The Martha Miller – No Longer Bound Educational Center and continues to serve the community.
