History
Our History
St. Philip Missionary Baptist Church was organized on June 19, 1977, by eight God-inspired men and women in the home of Pastor E.L. Rhone and Sis. Lovie L. Rhone. The congregation continued to meet at the Rhone residence until God led Pastor Rhone to the church’s current location at 3602 Emancipation Avenue (formerly Dowling Street), where we worship today.
From the beginning, we have been committed to Christian outreach, serving our community through a neighborhood food pantry, hospital visitations, and fellowship. Our church became a welcoming house of prayer, where many who were lost found salvation through God’s word. It is through the teaching of His word that St. Philip Missionary Baptist Church has been sustained to this day.
In 2009, Rev. W.R. Ivory was called to pastor the church. Having already been a dedicated member and associate minister, Pastor Ivory embraced his pastoral calling. Originally from Arkansas, he answered God’s call with deep Texas roots and continues to lead our church, preaching God’s word in spirit and truth.
Our Founding Pastor
Pastor E.L. Rhone, the youngest of 9 children, was born in Magnolia Springs, Texas, grew up in Houston’s 5th Ward as a standout basketball team player, graduating from both Phillis Wheatley High School and Texas Southern University. He served in the military in Korea, worked at the U.S. Post Office, and was a 3rd Ward businessman, neighbor, and friend. Pastor Rhone acknowledged his ministry call while serving at Christian Faith MBC as a church trustee and as a teacher. In 2004, God called home Sis. Lovie Rhone, his tireless and God-fearing helpmate. In 2009, after 32 years of pastoral leadership, God called home Pastor Rhone. Among many accomplishments, Pastor Rhone and church members ensured the church mortgage was paid.
Our Mission
At St. Philip Missionary Baptist Church, we are dedicated to spreading the love of Jesus Christ through worship, fellowship, and service. Rooted in faith and driven by compassion, we strive to create a welcoming environment where individuals and families can grow spiritually and connect with a supportive community. St. Philip Missionary Baptist Church continues to grow in God’s word and direction. Our church is dedicated to following the pastor’s desire to encourage others in the Lord, grow as instruments of effective change, nurture disciples, and above all, give God all the glory, honor, and praise.
Catch The Vision
Step 1: Belonging – one becomes a member of the Body of Christ by accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and also joins the St. Philip MBC community by faith.
Step 2: Connecting – join a Sunday School Bible Study Class Sunday Morning so that the purposes of the church can be realized in an intimate setting where relationships are a priority
Thursday evening 6:00 pm via church conference line.
Step 3: Worshipping – regularly attend worship on Saturday or Sunday to corporately praise God, worship Him in spirit and in truth and be fed the Word of God.
Step 4: Growing – attend Prayer Meeting and other available study group or Bible study class learning opportunities.
Step 5: Giving – support the local and global ministry of the church through tithes, offerings, love and sacrificial monetary gifts.
Step 6: Serving – discover one’s spiritual gifts, passion and personality profile and participate in at least one of the ministries of the church.
Step 7: Going – take the Good News of Jesus Christ from the local church to individuals, groups and to the whole world.