Our Story

153 Years of Faithfulness

From a small congregation in 1872 to the historic Kayne Avenue Missionary Baptist Church of today — a legacy rooted in faith, perseverance, and the unchanging love of Jesus Christ.

Our Vision

2026 — THE YEAR OF INCREASE

Reorganize — ensuring every ministry is properly aligned and led.

Restore — returning to the basics of discipleship.

Rejuvenate — revitalizing our hearts and deepening connection with God.

Be Resourceful — stewarding the gifts and talents God has entrusted to us.

Our Mission

To fulfill the Great Commission by intentionally reaching people where they are, growing them through the teaching and application of God's Word, equipping them to serve with purpose, and sending them out to transform lives, families, and communities through the power of Jesus Christ.

Reach

Grow

Equip

Send

Church History

A Legacy Since 1872

Kayne Avenue Missionary Baptist Church traces its roots back more than a century and a half — a story of faithful pastors, dedicated members, and a God who has never failed.

1872

The Beginning

Under the leadership of Reverend E.T. Jones, a congregation was organized and named College Street Baptist Church. Reverend Jones later relocated the church from Third Avenue South to Eleventh Avenue South. A few years later, Reverend A. Thomas was called as pastor and moved the congregation to Bilbo Street, now known as South Street.

Late 1800s

Pennington Street Baptist Church

Reverend Jim Cotton succeeded Reverend Thomas as pastor. During his pastorate, a lot was purchased at 1408 Pennington Street, now known as Edgehill Avenue. Upon this property, Reverend Cotton and the members constructed a place of worship and marched into their new sanctuary under the name Pennington Street Baptist Church. Reverend Cotton faithfully led worship services in the basement until the upper auditorium was completed.

1883

Reverend E.M. Lawrence

Reverend E.M. Lawrence was called to pastor Pennington Street Baptist Church, now known as Kayne Avenue Missionary Baptist Church. He served faithfully until 1905, when he became State Superintendent of Missions. During his absence, Reverend Lott, Reverend Joe Lawrence, Reverend Phawe, and Reverend Farrell served as supply pastors and helped sustain the ministry.

1915

A Faithful Return

Reverend E.M. Lawrence returned to Kayne Avenue and continued serving until his death. He was succeeded by Reverend M.C. Durham, Reverend T.E. Lauderdale, and Reverend G.E.O. Whitehurst.

1948-1965

Seasons of Leadership

Kayne Avenue was shepherded by several dedicated leaders, including Reverend W.B. Rouse, Reverend Paul Hayes, Reverend A.J. King, and Reverend Grady H. Donald.

1965

Reverend Albert G. Jones

In October 1965, Reverend Albert G. Jones accepted the call to pastor Kayne Avenue Missionary Baptist Church and faithfully served until his retirement on July 19, 2003.

1968

Fire & Faithfulness

Tragedy struck when the church edifice on 12th Avenue South was destroyed by fire on November 10, 1968. Yet, through faith and determination, the congregation continued worshipping at Carter-Lawrence School Auditorium from November 1968 until July 1969 before relocating temporarily to the auditorium of the United Methodist General Board of Evangelism at Twentieth and Grand Avenue.

1971-1972

A New Home

Under Pastor Jones' visionary leadership, the membership purchased property at 1025 12th Avenue South. Groundbreaking services for the new sanctuary were held on November 15, 1971. Less than a year later, on September 17, 1972, after many sacrifices, tense moments, and faithful endeavors, the Kayne Avenue family marched triumphantly into its beautiful new edifice at 1025 12th Avenue South.

2004

Reverend Vincent K. Campbell

On November 14, 2004, Kayne Avenue Missionary Baptist Church extended a pastoral call to Reverend Vincent K. Campbell of Saint Paul, Minnesota. Under his leadership, the church continued to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. In August 2013, Reverend Campbell, in obedience to the leading of the Holy Spirit, accepted the pastorate of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

2013-2015

Season of Transition

Following Reverend Campbell's departure, Kayne Avenue moved forward under the leadership of Deacon Chairman Odie Jones and Interim Pastor Reverend Harmon E. Stockdale, Jr. Their steadfast leadership helped stabilize and strengthen the congregation during a critical season of transition. The church remained united, committed, and focused on ministry.

Faithful Servants

Kayne Avenue was further blessed with the faithful service of Senior Associate Ministers Reverend James Vann and Reverend John Dixon, along with dedicated boards of deacons and deaconesses who exemplified a spirit of servant leadership.

2015

Pastor Stockdale Elected

On December 13, 2015, the congregation overwhelmingly voted to elect Reverend Harmon E. Stockdale, Jr. as Pastor of Kayne Avenue Missionary Baptist Church. Reverend Stockdale faithfully served the congregation until his resignation on January 21, 2024.

2025

A Historic Election

Following another season of prayer, transition, and seeking God's direction, on October 26, 2025, the congregation overwhelmingly voted to elect Reverend Paula Michelle Wyatt as the first female pastor in the 153-year history of Kayne Avenue Missionary Baptist Church.

Today

A Beacon of Hope

Kayne Avenue Missionary Baptist Church continues to stand as a beacon of hope, faith, worship, and community service in Nashville, Tennessee - committed to proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ and impacting lives for generations to come.