BELMONT MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH
was organized in the year 1869. The first worship service was held in a bush arbor located south of Memphis-Arlington Road. Reverend Harry York served as the first pastor, during which time the church moved into a log house located south of the L & N Railroad on Gerber Road. Reverend York served until 1879, followed by Reverend John Ward. During his tenure the church moved into a frame building located on Collierville-Arlington Road (currently Chester Street).

Some of the founders and early officers of the church were Jim Hines, Charlie Anderson, Nathan Tennessee, Lewis Aderway, John Hayes, Henry Green and Caesar Hayes.

Between 1885 and 1908 six pastors contributed greatly to the growth and progress of the Belmont Church. They were Reverend George Rivers, H. Luster, G. W. Branch, E. Moody, J.A. Harris, and Reverend Weekly. Reverend F. R. Nelson led the church for the next 38 years where the tremendous growth and progress continued.

Belmont Church has been tested on two occasions when the building was destroyed by fire twice, in 1926 and again in 1961. Also in 1928, a severe storm with damaging winds destroyed the building. Each time dedicated members and other concerned citizens of the Arlington community were instrumental in rebuilding the church.

Reverend D. L. Talley served from 1946 until 1954 followed by Reverend L. R. Donson who served for the next 48 years. The growth and progress of the church intensified from the leadership of this locally and nationally known leader.

When failing health slowed Reverend Donson, Reverends Nisby (a member), Wesley and Hughes assisted in carrying on services for the church. Minister Timothy Bowers was elected as interim pastor in 2001 and he lead the church until June 2002. Reverend Herman Boyd assisted the church through April 2003.

In April 2003, the Holy Spirit blessed the membership of Belmont with our current leader, Reverend Winfred E. Bailey. Under Pastor Bailey’s leadership, Belmont currently has 5 Associate Ministers: Minister Patricia Nelson, Minister Michelle Bird, Minister Lee Saulsberry, Minister Joel Bird and Minister Timothy Bingham. We continue to be blessed with great Christian leadership and continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Belmont Missionary Baptist Church was planted in the heart of the Arlington community years ago and continues to stand as a beacon and lighthouse to others.