ROCHESTER, N.Y. — This summer, East Penfield Baptist Church marked a big milestone, celebrating its 200th anniversary. Established in 1824, the church has stood as a cornerstone of the community for two centuries, guiding its congregation through faith, fellowship and service. Over the years, it has seen countless changes, yet it has remained a constant source of spiritual guidance and support.
In a historic moment earlier this month, Vandell Marshall, a native of Rochester and a dedicated member of the Rochester City School District and NAACP, became only the second Black pastor in the church's two-century history. This appointment is a significant event for the church and the broader community, reflecting both progress and continuity.
Pastor Marshall shared a poignant moment from the church's past during a recent service.
"This is the 100th anniversary of this church, taken back in 1924. My eldest member and her grandparents are in this picture," he remarked, highlighting the deep-rooted connections that bind the church’s present to its past.
June Abraham, a lifelong church member, also reflected on her family's longstanding ties to East Penfield.
"My grandparents were here. We were married here in 1951 and my children were all born and baptized here," she shared, underscoring the multi-generational legacy that is a hallmark of the church's history.
Pastor Marshall showcased three models representing the evolution of the church’s structure.
"We have three models here that show you the progression of our church. This is what the church looked like in the beginning. After the rebuild, that is what it looked like, and this is what it looks like now," he explained.
The significance of Pastor Marshall's role as the second Black pastor in 200 years is not lost on him.
"It feels strange to say it sometimes because when you come into this church, it’s nothing but love. I hate to be a cliché, that I don’t see color, but you know the difference," he expressed, acknowledging both the progress made and the challenges that remain.
Recalling his first sermon at the church, Pastor Marshall shared a memorable experience.
"When I first got here, I was preaching my first sermon, and there was a hush in the room," Marshall said. "I'm thinking, 'my God, I am bombing.' Afterward, it was like, 'Oh my God, I love your sermon.' They were taught that when you're in church, you don't speak."
Looking ahead, Pastor Marshall envisions East Penfield Baptist Church as a multicultural community where everyone can come together, setting aside cultural differences.
"God is love. When He speaks about his children, He's speaking about all of us. He didn’t say, 'Okay, well, white people do this or Black people do this,'" he emphasized, highlighting his commitment to inclusivity and unity.
Church member June Abraham echoed the congregation's support for Pastor Marshall.
"I'm certainly glad Pastor Marshall is here; he's wonderful. I get so inspired every Sunday when I come and hear him," she said, reflecting on the positive impact he has already made.
As Pastor Marshall looks to the future, he hopes to leave a lasting legacy at East Penfield Baptist Church, one that will be remembered long after his time on earth is done.
"Like we hear Dr. Martin Luther King or we hear some of those greats who have played a part in history," he said, aspiring to contribute to the church’s rich history in a meaningful way.
As the mantle has been passed to him, Pastor Marshall is dedicated to preserving the church's history while also updating and revitalizing parts of it. Under his leadership, East Penfield Baptist Church looks poised to continue its tradition of faith, fellowship and community service for many years to come.