New Friendship Church History

New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church is located approximately 25 miles south of downtown Chicago, in the village of Robbins, Illinois. Though we are located in Robbins, most of our members live in other communities-as far south as University Park and as far north as the north side of Chicago. Our church was begun in 1922 by Rev. David Pitts and, during the intervening years, we have had only three other Pastors: Rev. Felix C. Taurvin, Rev. James Hawthorne and Rev. Dr. Benjamin Garrett.

Many of our members are "seasoned citizens" who have worshiped with us for all or most of their religious life; some are second and third generation "Friendship folks"; and we have a good number of newer members. (Even though they've been with us 10 years or more, some old timers still consider them "new"!) We have a lot of children but have somewhat of a gap in the 25-to-40 age group.

We are as diverse as we are human. We have working class laborers, professionals, and many retirees. Our church has been termed "unusual" because we have many members who are traditional Baptists and yet we have a great number of members who embrace all the manifestations, gifts, fruit and moves of the Holy Spirit. Most members are enthusiastic Bible students and our Sunday School features some of the most knowledgeable teachers that you will find!.

Most of all, New Friendship is a family of connected believers who love and support each other and eagerly reach out to embrace all we encounter with the love of God.

On August 22, 1922, New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church had its beginning at the home of Mrs. Laura Richardson, 139th and Monticello Avenue in Robbins, Illinois. Its name was chosen by the founder and Pastor, Rev. David Pitts.

As the membership grew, the services were held in a portable school on 139th Street. Later, a small wooden edifice with a belfry was erected. A large bell, which was donated to the church, rang for each service.

During the pastorate of the late Felix C. Taurvin, a brick building was erected and the following were formed: a larger deacon board, an instrumental band, junior missionaries, a Bible class, and the Prayer Band. As the membership continued to grow, the vision of a larger church became a deep-rooted dream of Rev. Taurvin. The dream began to materialize and the erection of the present edifice began. However, neither Rev. Taurvin nor his wife Helen, who worked side-by-side in his endeavors, lived to see its completion. In July, 1966, Rev. Taurvin passed this life, and in November of the same year, his wife also passed.

 On Sunday, October 8, 1967, Rev. James Hawthorne was officially installed as pastor. During his pastorate, the present edifice was completed. On April 20, 1969, the church was consecrated and dedicated to God. Rev. Hawthorne served until 1971.

 On Sunday, May 23, 1972, Dr. Benjamin Garrett was officially installed as pastor and he has seen the fulfillment of many dreams and visions. First and foremost, as a result of preaching the gospel, many souls have been saved. Also, through tithing and building fund drives, God has blessed us to pay off our mortgage, acquire real estate, pave all our parking lots, install air conditioning and decorate the sanctuary of our church, complete the basement and balcony, and purchase a church van. All this in addition to serving the needs of the membership and funding outreach ministries. Pastor Garrett retired July 1, 2007.

                                                         Rev. Felix C. Taurvin                                Rev. Dr. Benjamin Garrett

  Elder Vassel Stubbs was elected Pastor in 2008. And God Keeps Doing Great Things for New Friendship!