Who We Are
See our values, mission and core
A family-friendly church striving to become like the Christian church described in the Bible
Our vision is to focus on the ONE who needs Christ in our community and our world. Our mission is to help people walk one step closer to Jesus. That’s us in a nutshell.
First time here?
Relax & enjoy the experience
At Pilgrim Baptist Church, we strive to present a healthy blend of historic tradition and modern creativity in our worship services.
Musically, our services may include pianos, tambourines, drums, and guitars as we worship together in praise and prayer. You may also notice expressive worship, including dancing, as we believe worship should be heartfelt and guided by the Holy Spirit.
During the service, we also have a special children’s moment where the Pastor or another minister shares a brief message with the children on their level about God.
Following this time, the Pastor delivers God’s Word to the adult congregation through biblical teaching and preaching. Our worship services typically last about one hour and forty minutes.
SERVICE
Worship Service
Sundays at 10:00 am
Designed for everyone regardless of faith stage. We sing God-centered worship, pray, and hear a message with Biblical truth applicable to real life. Offering plates are passed but visitors are not expected to give.
Services run about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
CLASS
Sunday School Class
Sundays at 9:00 am
Small groups of 6-8 individuals (or 5-6 couples) meeting in homes and restaurants for fellowship, Bible study, prayer, and accountability. They’re the heartbeat of our community. Build real relationships and grow in your faith together.
10 things that define Pilgrim Baptist
An honest picture of who we are and what we’re committed to.
A church family devoted to Christ
Help everyone take one step closer to Jesus by accepting Christ and growing in devotion through Celebrate, Connect, and Commit.
Modern, Contemporary Worship
Worship that transcends songs and lights while connecting spiritually and emotionally, whether they are believers or not..
Focused on the ONE who needs Christ
Adhering to Christ’s teachings in Luke 15— where Jesus talked about the lost sheep, the lost coin and the lost son—we will be a church more focused on capturing the one who is lost than pleasing the 99 who are saved.
Vibrant Children’s & Student ministry
We know by statistics that if someone is going to accept Jesus as their and Savior, they will most likely do so before age 18. As a result, we must make a commitment to put children at the forefront of what we do.
Deep Commitment to Prayer & Scripture
Everything we do must be grounded in our relationship with Christ and the Word of God. We are committed to daily prayer and a deep, consistent pursuit of Scripture in every area of life.
Weekly Connect (life) groups
We offer weekly Connect (C) groups, or small groups comprised of six to eight individuals or five to six married couples, that meet in someone’s home for fellowship, Bible study, prayer and accountability.
Commitment to Serve
All able-bodied members serve in Children, Students, Worship, First Impressions, Connect Groups, Prayer Team, & the community. This list is intended to be the starting point to helping us achieve our vision & mission.
10% of Budget Dedicated to Missions
We prioritize generosity by setting aside a portion of our budget to support missions locally and around the world. Giving isn’t an afterthought, it’s built into who we are and how we serve.
Part of the Restoration Movement
Not a denomination — “Christians Only.” We look solely to Scripture and identify with the New Testament Christian Church.
Elder Protected, Staff Led
A board of elders governs and spiritually shepherds the congregation while church staff leads day-to-day operations.
Families Welcome
Safe, fun, and Spirit-filled for your kids
For babies & preschoolers, elementary children, middle schoolers, and high school students.
In each ministry, kids learn in engaging, age-appropriate environments led by people who genuinely love children and love Jesus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers to common questions about visiting, what to expect, and how to get connected.
Where should I go once I arrive?
Park in front of the church — we’ll have a host at the door to welcome you and point you in the right direction.
What will happen at my first visit?
Relax and enjoy. We will not ask you to stand up or make a fuss — we’ll shake your hand and say hello. Many people want to check out our church quietly for a while, and that is perfectly fine. Come see if MC3 is the right fit for you.
What is your dress code?
Don’t worry about what to wear — MC3 is a multicultural, multigenerational church. You’ll feel at home in jeans or something dressier. God doesn’t care what you wear, and neither do we.
What programs are available for kids & students?
Kids of all ages are welcome. We encourage kids and their parents to grow in faith together. Our worship services not only encourage families with children to worship together, but are tailored to actively engage every worshiper, including children.
There will be a children’s moment with Pastor Gary D. Jones or a minister to discuss God’s Word is a child-like manner. After which the kids of all ages will break away into their own service.
If you need to step out with your child, feel free to take a moment with them in the entryway to the church.
Do you have a check-in procses for kids?
Yes — first-time guests complete brief paperwork at check-in. To save time at the door, you can pre-register your children online before you arrive.
How can I meet others & get connected?
Some of the best growth happens outside the sanctuary:
- →Connections Counter — stop by any Sunday for a free gift and answers to your questions.
- →New Beginnings Class — 8 weeks covering what being Fully Devoted to Jesus looks like at MC3.
- →C-Groups — small groups meeting throughout the week in homes and restaurants.
- →Classes & Conferences — check the events page and subscribe to our newsletter.
- →Serve in a ministry — discover your gifts and connect with the right team.
Will I be asked for money?
Malachi 3:10 states, “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” Visitors need not feel obligated to participate in the offering.
Ready to visit?
Fill out our online visitor registration and we’ll have someone meet you at the door. We’d love to welcome you to the Pilgrim Baptist Church family this Sunday!
Have Questions?
When you arrive, if you would like more information, see one of Pilgrim Baptist Church greeters or ushers. They will be more than happy to help you with any question you may have. If you would like more information before you arrive, feel free to call the church office Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM at 919-493-1026 or you can write to us right now, using the form below.
