Call Us 214-339-9554
Call Us 214-339-9554
Learn More About Our Church
“We Believe the Bible Is the Divine Word of God Working Through Us to Perform Its Perfect Work in Us”
Who We Are
Our Church
We desire to be a community-caring church. Spiritually and effectively meeting the needs of our members, our community, and beyond; being led and motivated by the Holy Spirit to develop faith-based programs that will empower, equip, and compel people to become sanctified unto God for His purpose.
Our Mission
Metropolitan Baptist Church of Dallas is a faith-based church believing in the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. With this belief, we are called and commanded to evangelize in our community and beyond to compel the unsaved to come to Christ. To those that are already saved, to disciple and develop them into becoming men, women, and children of God, that can be used by God by discovering and developing their God-given gifts through the power of the Holy Spirit. To reach out and demonstrate God’s love through a ministry that exercises compassion to the hurting and those who are in need so that God will be glorified and edified in all that we do.
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. Matthew 28:19-20, KJV
A Message From Pastor Evans
We are here to serve you, especially through these times of uncertainty. It is our responsibility to build your faith and encourage you to look to Jesus, who is the Author and Finisher of our Faith. The Bible teaches us that faith comes by hearing and hearing the Word of God. Lady Evans and I want to be a part of your life, and we want you to be empowered by the preaching and teaching of the Word of God so that you may achieve your divine purpose.
Our Pastor
Rev. Christopher J. Evans
Christopher Jerome Evans was born on January 30, 1957, in Marlin, Texas. Since his call to the Ministry in 1995, he has had only one objective: to compel the lost to come to Christ and to those already saved, to enhance and develop their spiritual growth.
Reverend Evans has been on this Christian journey since the early 1980’s. He has served under the tutelage of two of Dallas’ most elite pastors, Dr. Mac E. Sargent (True Love Missionary Baptist Church) and Dr. Curtis W. Wallace (Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church). He served faithfully in several leadership capacities in both churches.
Reverend Evans was ordained and commissioned by Dr. Curtis W. Wallace on August 28, 2002. On September 5, 2002, he accepted the position of Assistant Pastor to the Metropolitan Baptist Church under the pastorship of the late Dr. George W. Payne, Sr.
Reverend Evans accepted the pastorship of Metropolitan on November 24, 2002, and delivered his first sermon as Pastor, “Can Two Walk Together?” on Sunday, December 1, 2002. Since that time, he has been full-time in the administration of the Church’s affairs and also extends his pastoral care to the entire Oak Cliff community.
Reverend Evans received his formal education right here in Dallas, Texas. He also has various civic affiliations, the past owner of Evans Limousines and a 2003 Quest for Success Recipient, a recognition tool for outstanding Black entrepreneurs. He is married to the former Regina M. Williams of Paris, Texas, and is the proud father of four. His future goals, under the direction and guidance of the Holy Spirit, are unlimited for the Metropolitan Baptist Church of Dallas.
Our First Lady
Lady Regina Williams Evans
Regina Williams Evans is genuinely loved and highly respected by the members of the Metropolitan Baptist Church of Dallas. She provides leadership to the Women of Worship, a bible study and outreach ministry that leads the women by gathering together, offering acceptance, and working together.
Her professional career is quite diverse, involving insurance, health care, and even business ownership. She is passionate about music, has a melodious singing voice, and a knack for songwriting. She is a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a native of Paris, Texas. She is a devoted First Lady and wife to Pastor Chris Evans in support of all pastoral responsibilities.
Our Ministries
Deacon Ministry
Deacon Thearthur Hygh, Chairman
Deacon Johnny Derrough, Vice-Chairman
The Deacon Ministry serves alongside the Pastor in the role of enrichment to the worship service. They are ultimately responsible for proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all people while continuing to learn and grow in the Word of God. Each Deacon must be led by the Holy Spirit as co-laborers with the Pastor as they minister to the needs of others in the congregation.
New Member Commitment Ministry
Pastor Chris J. Evans, Instructor
This Ministry details to new members the meaning of conversion, church membership, and truths about faith, stewardship, and the importance of a powerful prayer life. It also instructs how to share your faith effectively. Meetings usually last one day, a five-hour session length at 10 a.m. Alternate sessions can be arranged on Sunday mornings at 9:15 a.m. These one-hour sessions usually last from four to six weeks and are scheduled by exception only.
Brotherhood Ministry
Deacon Albert Pleasant, President
This Ministry is not just men’s bible study – it’s a monthly fellowship and outreach to the sick and shut-in, helping those in the community in need. The Brotherhood also provides mentoring to area elementary and middle schools and is actively involved with the Twin Oaks Neighborhood Association in their community projects. The Brotherhood meets on the first Saturday of every month, which combines Bible Study, breakfast, and fellowship. The Brotherhood is also very active in the Second Saturday Community Outreach program.
Women of Worship (WOW) Ministry
Sister Regina Evans, President
The mission of this Ministry is women working together, offering acceptance, and working together, not just in bible study and fellowship, but in outreach to the sick, shut-in, and to those in the community and beyond. It somewhat mirrors the Brotherhood Ministry in that it also has a mentoring component as well. Meetings are held quarterly or as needed.
Mission Ministry
Sister Carol Johnson, President
This is a bi-weekly bible study of dedicated women (open to men, also). The main goal and objective of this Ministry is to minister to the lost by sharing guidance and knowledge of the Word of God. The main projects are mostly community-based; however, their ongoing project is our Church’s clothing pantry for the less fortunate. The Mission Ministry also works in conjunction with the North Texas Food Bank in an effort to alleviate hunger. They are also advocates for the American Red Cross and the American Cancer Society. This Ministry meets every first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m.
Bereavement Ministry
Dr. Stephanie Love
This Ministry provides an open communication or visitation service to members and their immediate families who have experienced the loss of a loved one. This Ministry coordinates food service, sends cards and letters of condolence and floral expressions, and coordinates with the immediate family any additional services needed during and after the funeral service. The main goal of this Ministry is to allow the grieving person to focus on their grief and get through the initial crisis without having to take care of overwhelming daily tasks.
Connection Ministry
Sis. Donice Cotton, Ministry Leader
This Ministry’s main objective is to keep in touch with the church body – especially new converts and members. Information about the Church, the church calendar, upcoming events, and how to become involved in church activities are also a focus.
Youth Ministry
Sister Frankie Grant, Youth Director
This group of dedicated youth, sponsors, and parents is the focal point of our Church. There are several ministries within this Ministry, which include creative praise dancing, mimes, drama, youth and children’s choirs and ushers. Tutoring and mentoring are also available and being provided by other ministries as needed. Outreach is also intricate, which allows for community service hours, as required in areas of higher learning. This Ministry meets, as scheduled, on Saturday at 9 a.m. and on-demand as needed. Its main goal is to develop a well-rounded youth that can be a part of many efforts – all biblically based.
Communications Ministry
Sister Regina Allen, Coordinator
This Ministry keeps the church body informed of all church events, activities, and happenings that affect the Church. Sign up to receive a text or email message of important church information. A personal phone call to the Church (@214-339-9554) is also an option for sign-up.
Ushers Ministry
Sister Pauline Suell, President
The Ushers are a group of dedicated men and women of God whose main function is to keep our guests comfortable while directing the flow of service by seating guests and making information about the service available. The Ushers faithfully serve every Sunday and assist the Pastor by serving during special services and guest church visits. Meetings are scheduled quarterly, Saturday at 11 a.m., before the first Sunday, or as needed and required.
Hospitality Ministry
Sister Stephanie Mosley, President
This group greets our members, guests, and visitors each Sunday morning prior to and during regular worship service. They are also present during special services or funerals. They extend an initial welcome and make sure that follow-up action takes place – either by letter, phone, or pastoral contact. This Ministry is also instrumental in making health-awareness information available to the church body, along with other printed materials. Meetings are scheduled as needed and required.
Pastor’s Aid Ministry
Sister Ruby Henson, President
This group is a direct help to the Pastor – financially and in prayer and support. They host most programs that deal with the first family. This Ministry is also responsible for making the Pastor’s guests comfortable by providing snacks and other refreshments. Meetings are scheduled as needed and required for special event planning, namely, annual appreciation services, birthday celebrations, or other days as deemed special.
Music Ministry
Sister Trish Hodge, Minister of Music – Organ/Piano/Keyboard
Brother Jonathan Washington – Percussions
Brother Lonnie Barnes – Bass
Brother George Payne, Jr., President of Sanctuary Choir
Deacon Johnny Derrough, President of Male Chorus
Jonathan Washington, President of Youth Choirs
The Sanctuary Choir, Male Chorus, and Mass Choirs are the adult choirs of the Church. They minister in song in-house and support the Pastor in song service during all church engagements (in-house and as guests). The Sanctuary choir sings each first and third Sunday, the Youth choir on the second Sunday, and the Male Chorus ministers on the fourth Sunday. Choir rehearsals are held on Thursday nights at 7 p.m. prior to the first and third Sundays for the Sanctuary Choir; however, the Male Chorus rehearses on Saturday at 9 a.m. prior to the fourth Sunday. The Youth Choirs rehearse on Saturday prior to the second Sunday as part of their ministry meetings.
Culinary Ministry
Deacon Johnny Derrough, Coordinator
This Ministry consists of a dedicated group that aspires for the love of Christ to be exemplified in the performance of food service for church events. They are committed to high-quality standards for health and safety relative to the preparation and serving of food and beverages. This Ministry provides or assists with food for designated church events, second Saturday Community Outreach, and all special occasions upon request. This includes funerals, receptions, and other church-supported activities. The Culinary Ministry also maintains control of the food pantry and kitchen inventory.
AUDIO / VIDEO MINISTRY
Deacon Alvin Griffin, Audio Technician
Brother Michael Huff, Media Coordinator
The Audio / Video Ministry enables and provides digital media that enriches, enhances, and cultivates the worship experience for the Church and community at large. As a result, through the application of audio and visual technology, the body of Christ is ministered to and edified.
Our Church History
The revelation from God came to our beloved Pastor, Dr. George W. Payne, Sr., early in January for the dreams of the great Metropolitan Baptist Church. On the second Sunday in January (January 10), in the year 1960, the Lord, Pastor Payne, and four others made a vow to work diligently for the Master. Therefore, the Metropolitan Baptist Church was organized at 2251 Lawrence Street in Dallas, Texas.
There were additions of members, love, and the Holy Spirit. The members toiled there for several years, and even greater dreams came to a realization. The Church was relocated to a lovely building and neighborhood at 1800 East Illinois. This brought about the addition of more members and new hopes. For many years, Pastor Payne taught and preached to the saved, as well as the unsaved, at this location. Many great things were accomplished. Souls were saved because of this work, along with love, devotion, caring for one another, and much prayer.
It seems as though we became complacent; some members moved away, and others got too relaxed, thus resulting in little or no growth. During 1978, we experienced much discomfort. Seemingly, we could not move forward, but thanks to God and His goodness, changes did occur. So, in the early morning hours of January 1979, the interior of our church building was destroyed by fire. Our hearts were saddened, but this was a renewal for the members, drawing close together like a family and restoring the love and fellowship we once knew.
Keeping the faith and believing in the Lord Jesus, Pastor Payne found shelter for his flock, and we began a fellowship with the Friendship-West Baptist Church. During those months of grief and rekindling, the Spirit seemed to have been at its highest. Although we were able to return to our church home within three months, Pastor Payne and some of the Brothers began looking for a new edifice in which we could worship. After much prayer, dedication, and hard work, in June of 1980, we moved into our beautiful edifice at 1711 Reynoldston Lane.
During the 15 years that followed, the Church was again on the move. God showed favor in many areas, and we were able to add new members, renovate areas of the Church, beef up our transportation ministry with a new van; and we retired our mortgage on this building in July 1995. Most importantly, we added a Christian Education Director and Pastor’s Assistant in August 1995.
Between the fall of 1995 and the winter of 2002, our main focus was to teach and preach the uncompromising gospel; however, it became apparent that Pastor Payne’s health was beginning to fail. In March of 2002, the Board of Deacons presented to the Church a plan to hire an Assistant Pastor – one that would assist with the administrative and pastoral duties of the Church. On August 21, 2002, Reverend Christopher Jerome Evans was voted to become the Assistant Pastor for the Church and support Pastor Payne in pastoral responsibilities. Reverend Evans immediately won the favor of the congregation. His personal mission was to “walk by faith, not by sight, joyfully doing the Lord’s work serving the community.” We were again on the move, and during the remainder of 2002, we added a record number of believers to the roster.
The untimely death of Dr. George W. Payne, Sr., occurred on October 23, 2002. However, we recognized that a leader was needed, and on November 24, 2002, Reverend Christopher Jerome Evans was voted to become the 2nd Pastor of the Metropolitan Baptist Church. His first sermon as an incumbent, “Can Two Walk Together,” was preached on December 1, 2002, and Investiture Services followed on February 9, 2003.
Under the leadership of Pastor Evans, the Church has continued its movement, adding members and ministries to serve this present age. Our 2nd Saturday outreach effort of feeding the Twin Oaks Community gives us an opportunity to not only minister, meet, and feed our neighbors, but it allows access to our clothing pantry. We have also taken on major renovation projects, which not only bring our building interior up to code but we also have a new parking lot that should add beauty and neighborhood value for years to come.
Our motto is…“Big Enough to Serve, Room Enough to Grow” ~ is a phrase that encapsulates the guiding principle of the Metropolitan Baptist Church of Dallas.
