About Us

Welcome to Our Website

We are delighted to welcome you to the online presence of the Yazoo County Baptist Association, which encompasses twenty-four active Southern Baptist churches. If you reside in the Yazoo County area, there is undoubtedly a church conveniently located near your home. You are warmly invited to attend any of our churches; service times may vary, but each congregation holds worship on Sunday mornings.

As the Associational Missions Director, I am here to serve as a resource and consultant for all our churches. I work closely with the Mississippi Baptist Convention Board and endeavour to remain informed about the latest developments they share. I am available to preach or provide updates in our churches, and I am also happy to recommend a preacher if a congregation requires a temporary fill-in. Over time, I will be visiting each of our churches. Should you require any assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out using the contact details provided on this website.

In His Service,
Dr. Barry Ward
Area Missions Director
Yazoo County Baptist Association

The history of Baptist Associations in Mississippi is deeply rooted in the early religious landscape of the state. The ,

first Baptist presence in Mississippi dates back to 1791, when Richard Curtis Jr. led a group of Baptists from South Carolina to Mississippi, founding Salem Baptist Church, the first Baptist church in the state.

In 1806, six Baptist churches came together to form the first Mississippi Baptist Association. This marked the beginning of organized Baptist work in the state, which continued to grow and evolve over the years. The first attempt to establish a statewide Baptist convention was in 1824, but it disbanded in 1829 due to various challenges. A more successful effort occurred in 1836 with the formation of the Mississippi Baptist Convention, which began with nine associations and 122 churches.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the Baptist associations in Mississippi played crucial roles in the religious and social life of the state. They established various institutions, including the Baptist Record newspaper in 1877, and numerous educational and healthcare facilities. The Baptist Missionary Association of Mississippi, established in 1939, also significantly contributed to the growth and spread of Baptist churches throughout the state. This association has continued to support missions and church planting efforts.

Today, Baptist associations in Mississippi remain active, with the Mississippi Baptist Convention Board representing over 2,000 churches and 65 associations, focusing on missions

education, and community support.

The Yazoo County Baptist Association (YCBA) was first organized in the 1920s, later merging with Warren County. This lasted until YCBA split off from the Warren County Baptist Association in 1990s, forming its own separate entity to better serve the churches in Yazoo County. Throughout its history, several Associational Missions Directors (AMDs) have served with the YCBA, including Dr. Barry Ward, who is the current AMD. Dr. Ward began his ministry in 1978 and has a long history of serving in various capacities within the Southern Baptist community.

The YCBA has been involved in various ministries over the years, including missions and ministry to the elderly. Specific dates for the start of these ministries were not detailed, but the association has continually focused on strengthening churches, starting new churches, and connecting churches for collaborative efforts. Significant events in the history of Yazoo County include the founding of several key churches, such as Concord Baptist Church in 1843 and Liverpool Baptist Church, which was constituted in 1873. Liverpool Baptist Church underwent a name change from New Prospect in 1885 and received land for its current building that same year.

Here's a brief history of some Southern Baptist churches in Yazoo County, Mississippi:

1. **Liverpool Baptist Church**: Established on October 8, 1873, originally as New Prospect Baptist Church. The name changed to Liverpool Baptist Church in 1885, coinciding with the acquisition of land for the church. A notable pastor was Robert I. Martin, who served from 1948 to 1963 and then again from 1973 to 1974.

2. **Melrose Baptist Church**: This church started as a small Sunday School group meeting at the Melrose School House and was officially organized on August 9, 1931. It joined the local Baptist Association a year later. The church continues to be active in various community and worship activities.

3. **Tinsley Baptist Church**: Founded in 1945, Tinsley Baptist Church marked its 75th anniversary in 2020. The church engages in several community events and worship services throughout the year.

4. **Concord Baptist Church**: Established in 1843, Concord Baptist Church was initially part of the Central Baptist Association. Today, it is one of the 24 churches within the Yazoo County Baptist Association.

5. **Delta Baptist Church**: Founded in September 1965 with about 12 charter members, Delta Baptist Church initially operated within the Landmark Baptist tradition before joining the Southern Baptist Convention around the year 2000.

6. **Hebron Baptist Church**: Located in Bentonia, Hebron Baptist Church describes itself as a family of faith dedicated to exalting Christ through sharing His love and compassion.

These churches reflect the diverse history and commitment to community and faith within Yazoo County, contributing to the broader tapestry of Southern Baptist life in Mississippi.

Some Church History and their Pastors

### Bentonia Baptist Church
**Address:** 111 W. Railroad Ave., Bentonia, MS 39040
**Pastor:** JJ White

**Welcome to Our Church**

Bentonia Baptist Church, established in 1906 by Rev. Burl C. Conant, joined the Central Baptist Association in 1909 with Rev. F. W. Gunn as pastor and Mr. R. W. Martin as church clerk. The original membership was 28 people with contributions totaling $2.00. Some charter members were Mrs. Richard Hancock, Miss Debbie Kennison, and Mr. R. W. Martin.

From 1909 to 1921, Bentonia Baptist Church was part of the Central Baptist Association. In 1921, it became part of the Yazoo County Baptist Association. In its early years, the church had quarter-time preaching services at the old Union Church, shared with the Methodist congregation.

The first church building was erected in 1921, funded by donations and a grant from the State Convention Board. Mr. W. M. Gooch provided cypress lumber at a reduced price, and Mr. Richard Hancock supplied lighting.

Half-time preaching services began in 1939, moving to full-time services in 1946. A two-story educational annex was added in 1947. The current church building was constructed in 1966, with dedication services held in April 1967.

Over the years, the church has expanded its property and facilities, including a new fellowship hall in 2004.

Bentonia Baptist Church has experienced both joys and sorrows, serving as a beacon of hope in the community.

### Central Baptist Church
**Address:** 1495 Hwy 49, Bentonia, MS 39040
**Pastor:** Scotty Smith

**Welcome to Our Church**

Central Baptist Church was organized on September 6, 1956, and established on February 3, 1957. On February 21, 1971, a tornado destroyed the church, leading to a rebuilding effort completed later that year.

The church has provided salvation, comfort, and strength to many over the past 63+ years. Central Baptist Church focuses on worship, fellowship, and sharing Christ's love with Yazoo County and beyond.

**Meet The Pastor**

Pastor Scotty S. Smith answered the call to ministry in 2009. He was ordained as a pastor in 2012. Pastor Scotty and his wife Rachel, married since 1996, have four adult children and three grandchildren. They serve at Central Baptist Church, aiming to glorify God and spread His word.

### Concord Baptist Church
**Address:** 610 Concord Church Rd., Yazoo City, MS 39194
**Pastor:**

**Welcome to Our Church**

Founded in 1843, Concord Baptist Church believes in one true and living God and the Bible as God's inspired word. The church offers Sunday school and worship services on Sundays and prayer meetings on Wednesdays.

### Delta Baptist Church
**Address:** 597 Honeycutt Rd., Yazoo City, MS 39194
**Pastor:** Richard Jennings

**Welcome to Our Church**

Delta Baptist Church was established in 1965 and built its first building in 1967. The church has been part of the Southern Baptist Convention since around 2000. Delta Baptist Church focuses on sharing God's love with Yazoo County and the world.

**Meet The Pastor**

Richard Jennings answered the call to ministry at age 45. He and his wife Peggy, married since 1973, have two children and five granddaughters. Pastor Richard has served Delta Baptist Church since 2016.

### Hebron Baptist Church
**Address:** 3846 Hebron Church Rd., Bentonia, MS 39040

**Welcome to Our Church**

Hebron Baptist Church is a family of believers dedicated to exalting Christ and sharing His love and grace with others.

### Holly Bluff Baptist Church
**Address:** 932 MS 16, Holly Bluff, MS 39088
**Pastor:** Curtis May

**Welcome to Our Church**

Holly Bluff Baptist Church, founded in 1913, is a loving community-focused church. Services are held on Sundays at 11am.

**Meet The Pastor**

Pastor Curtis May became the pastor in 2020. He has a background in lay ministry and counseling. Pastor May, who came to Christ in a prison cell, aims to proclaim the gospel to a lost world. He is married to Teri Ann May, and they have one daughter.

### Liverpool Baptist Church
**Pastor:** Charlie Carliele

**Welcome to Our Church**

Liverpool Baptist Church was constituted in 1873 as New Prospect Baptist Church. It was renamed in 1885. The church meets on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month.### Melrose Baptist Church
**Address:** 7634 Hwy 433 S., Bentonia, MS 39040
**Pastor:** Trent Sligh**Welcome to Our Church**

Melrose Baptist Church, founded in 1931, offers Sunday school and worship services. The church also hosts various community events.

**Meet The Pastor**

Trent Sligh and his wife Callee have been with Melrose Baptist Church since 2014. They have two children. Trent has a Master of Divinity and teaches Bible and Government at Benton Academy.

### Oak Grove Baptist Church
**Address:** 790 Phoenix Road, Bentonia, MS 39040

**Welcome to Our Church**

Oak Grove Baptist Church, established in 1912, aims to love God, love people, share Jesus, and make disciples. Services are held on Sundays and Wednesdays.

### Southside Baptist Church
**Address:** 119 S. Monroe St., Yazoo City, MS 39194
**Pastor:** James Pettis

**Welcome to Our Church**

Southside Baptist Church welcomes everyone, focusing on prayer, love, and friendliness.

**Meet The Pastor**

James Pettis and his wife Angela have served Southside Baptist Church since 2015. They have five sons and three granddaughters. Pastor James is currently pursuing a degree in Christian Ministry.

### Tinsley Baptist Church
**Address:** 63 5th Street, Tinsley, MS 39173
**Pastor:** David Ingram

**Welcome to Our Church**

Tinsley Baptist Church, established in 1945, offers Sunday services and various special events throughout the year.

JRNR

Dr. Barry Ward is a Southern Baptist Pastor who began his ministry career in 1978. Dr Ward was raised in the Flora area attending Tri County Academy then when on to graduate from Clarke College, Blue Mountain College, New Orleans Baptist Seminary eventually obtaining his Doctorate in Theology from Southern Baptist Seminary in Gainesville Florida.

Dr Ward and his wife Renee have served on the mission field in China, Hong Kong, Tibet and multiple sights across North America. He served as pastor for 17 years at First Baptist Church of Magnolia, MS and many other churches through out our state. In Yazoo County he has served as pastor at Holly Bluff, Concord and Short Creek Baptist churches.

Prior to becoming the Area Missions Director for Yazoo County, Dr Ward served as the president of the Pastors Association of Clarke College, the Moderator of the Pike Count Baptist Association and President of the Pastors Conference in Rankin County.

Dr Ward has a passion for building the small church and discipling pastors.

Our Association Officers and Committee Members

Moderator: Chris Hudson (Oct 2024)

Vice Moderator: Jimmy Wayne Pettis (Oct 2026)

Clerk and Treasurer: Callee Sligh (on staff)

Representative: Luke Edwards (Oct 2025)

Budget and Finance: Scott Jones (Oct 2025), Michael Blackwell (Oct 2026), Davis Osbourne (Oct 2026)

Missions Committee: Sam "Buck" Lungrin (Oct 2024), Trent Sligh (Oct 2026), Steve Martin (Oct 2025)

Ministry Committee: Curtis May (Oct 2024), Delton Beall (Oct 2026)

Constitution and Bylaws Committee: Colby Davis (Oct 2025), James Pettis (Oct 2026)

Steve Baley and his wife Susan live near Pocahontas Mississippi. Steve gave his life to Christ and was called into the ministry while in high school. After college he served on the mission field in Africa and on staff with various para-church ministries. He was licensed to preach by Delta Baptist Church and has served at Delta, Rocky Springs, Oil City and Tinsley Baptist Churches and supplied at other Yazoo churches.

He has earned a BS in Social Sciences, and MBA and a Diploma in Biblical Studies. He is a retired Registered Nurse from the Veterans Administration and a retired Lt Colonel from the Mississippi Air National Guard.

Steve love to hunt and has a passion for men’s discipleship.

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