Elkridge Baptist Church

The Journey of Elkridge Baptist Church: 60+ Years of God’s Faithfulness

Elkridge Baptist Church began as a small seed of faith planted by Beltsville Baptist Church in 1962. Originally called Elkridge Baptist Mission and shortly after that, Elkridge Baptist Chapel, it was birthed in the home of Dr. Paul Bard, the Associational Superintendent of Missions, where three local families gathered with a passion for reaching their community for Christ. This humble beginning was the start of something much greater, as the group’s faithfulness to God soon led them to outgrow their home gatherings. While waiting for God to provide a permanent home, the church gathered at the Masonic Lodge in Elkridge.

In 1965, their prayers were answered with the completion of their first building. That same year, God called their first full-time pastor, Robert Moore, to shepherd the growing congregation. Under his leadership, the church expanded in size and impact, culminating in the addition of a larger space in 1969.

God continued to bless Elkridge with Pastor Dwight Evans in 1971, whose executive experience brought new life through discipleship, leadership training, and membership growth. During this exciting period, Elkridge Baptist Church helped form the Howard Baptist Association, becoming a vital leader in this movement.

The arrival of Pastor Homer “Doc” Boese during the nation’s bicentennial in 1976 marked a new era of love and reconciliation. Despite facing health challenges, his heart for ministry left a lasting impact, even after his early retirement. Pastor Robert Moore, now Director of Missions for the Howard Baptist Association, returned in 1981 to guide the church and lead them to Pastor David Orr.

Pastor Orr, officially called in 1982, inspired spiritual growth, missions engagement, and renovations to the church’s facilities. Under his leadership, the congregation deepened its commitment to prayer and giving, eventually retiring the mortgage on all church properties. In 1987, God called David and his wife to serve as missionaries in Brazil, where they faithfully spread the gospel for many years.

God’s faithfulness continued through Pastor Harold Lipham, who arrived in 1988. Harold led the church through its 25th anniversary and into the new millennium, launching missions such as hosting the Elkridge Korean Baptist Church and partnering on a mission trip to Europe. His legacy of obedience and leadership set the foundation for the church’s future.

Elkridge Baptist Church has been blessed by the leadership of many faithful pastors, including Dr. Rodger Bridges and Pastor Ken Lee. Their dedication ensured the church remained a beacon of light and love in the community. Our current Pastor, Blair Radney was called to serve EBC in 2022.

Today, Elkridge Baptist Church is a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness. For 60+ years, this congregation has answered the call to make Christ known in Elkridge and beyond. With hearts full of gratitude for the past and eager anticipation for the future, we continue to shine the light of Christ, sharing His love with the world.