ABOUT

In 1898, Klondike became one of the oldest African American incorporated communities in the city of Memphis.

6 years into the development of the community, 12 laypeople desired a place for themselves, and the community to hear from God. The founding members incorporated Friendship Baptist Church in November of 1904.

In March of 2002, Friendship Baptist Church elected their sixth pastor, and 8th to serve in the pastoral leadership including the two interim pastors, in 98 years.

The Rev. Walter J. Green was called to lead Friendship Baptist Church into the next century of life. Pastor Green is a native of New Orleans, LA, and a graduate of United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. He and his family, were eager to serve the community. Pastor Green came to Friendship Baptist Church with a wealth of knowledge and strategies for ministry and community engagement. The church partnered with the Klondike Smokey City CDC to improve the quality of life for residents of Klondike.

Under his leadership, Friendship purchased seven adjacent properties to the current location. Pastor was instrumental in leading Friendship to join the American Baptist Convention.

Friendship Baptist Church has membership or is affiliated with the American Baptist Convention USA, the National Baptist Convention, The National Baptist Sunday school, and BTU Congress, the Tennessee Baptist Missionary and Education Covington, and a life member of the NAACP.