About Us
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About Us
Freedom Missionary Baptist Church has been a beacon of faith and fellowship in Wayne County since its founding in 1968. Located on the west side of Richmond, Indiana, our church was established by a group of dedicated believers who sought to create a place where the Gospel would be preached, families would be strengthened, and the love of Christ would be shared with all.
Our story began in humble settings, first meeting in a barbershop basement and later in a union hall before God provided us with the land to build our permanent home. The very foundation of our church stands where the historic Round Barn once stood—a symbol of transformation, faith, and growth. Over the past five decades, Freedom Missionary Baptist Church has flourished, welcoming generations of families who continue to worship, serve, and grow together in Christ.
Our Worship & Community
We are an Independent Baptist congregation with a worship style that is uniquely our own—rooted in the joyful sounds of Southern bluegrass gospel. With lively instruments, heartfelt harmonies, and a deep love for traditional hymns, our services are filled with warmth and spirit, bringing people together in praise. Freedom is more than just a church—it’s a family. Many of our founding members still worship alongside their children and grandchildren, creating a close-knit and welcoming environment. We offer Sunday School classes for all ages, a fully-equipped nursery for our youngest visitors, and a dynamic youth group, Freedom Force, that encourages young believers to develop and live out their faith.
A Legacy of Fellowship & Service
Throughout the years, our church has expanded to meet the needs of our growing congregation. From the addition of a fellowship hall—where we gather for our beloved pitch-in dinners, where delicious homemade dishes are shared and enjoyed by all, to ongoing renovations that ensure we continue to be a welcoming and comfortable place of worship, Freedom has always stood firm on the Word of God.
Our late Pastor Lynn Seagraves, who faithfully led our congregation for 28 years, often reminded us of the importance of faithfulness, prayer, and unity. His legacy lives on as we continue to stand strong in our mission to share the Gospel and serve our community.
At Freedom Missionary Baptist Church, we invite you to be part of something special. Whether you’re looking for a church home, seeking spiritual growth, or simply longing for a place where you are loved, valued, and encouraged, we welcome you with open arms. Join us as we continue to honor our past, embrace the present, and trust God for the future.
Our Pastor
Pastor Jerry Smith
Pastor Jerry Smith and his wife, Denise, joined Freedom Missionary Baptist Church in February of 2022, bringing with them a heart for ministry and a passion for sharing the Gospel. Originally from Covington, GA, Pastor Jerry has dedicated his life to serving the Lord, both as a pastor and a missionary. His experiences in missions have strengthened his commitment to spreading God’s Word, building strong communities of faith, and encouraging believers to grow in their relationship with Christ.
Alongside Denise, Pastor Jerry continues to lead Freedom Missionary Baptist Church with unwavering faith, a servant’s heart, and a deep love for the congregation. Together, they are committed to honoring the church’s rich history while guiding it toward a future filled with worship, fellowship, and service.