Rev. William H. Branch Memorial Window
Location: Triumphant Baptist Church
Rev. William H. Branch
THE HISTORY OF
TRIUMPHANT BAPTISTCHURCH
In the early 20th century, the historic and unique neighborhood of Navy Hill in Richmond, Virginia, was home to a close-knit and vibrant African American community. It was within this community that Reverend William Henry Branch established the Seventh Street Mission, which would later become Triumphant Baptist Church.
The Seventh Street Mission was organized on Sunday, April 18, 1909, under the ordained vision and leadership of Reverend William Henry Branch. Reverend Branch and 28 members gathered in a rented chapel at 820 North Seventh Street to begin the ministry of the Seventh Street Mission. This location was also the home base of St. Beulah Holiness Church.
From 1909 to 1912, Seventh Street Baptist operated as a Mission Sunday School. During those formative years, the mission experienced rapid growth. On August 12, 1912, the Richmond Baptist Council recognized the mission as an established Baptist church. The members of the Council included Reverends Stokes, J. J. Woodson, A. S. Thompson, Z. D. Lewis, Evans Payne, and others. Under the pastorate of Reverend Branch, the congregation continued to grow rapidly.
ESTABLISHING THE CHURCH
In October 1913, the church ordained its first group of deacons. Those selected to serve were Humphrey Seaborne, Jordan Reid, William A. Jackson, Charles Lewis, J. H. Jones, and Charles T. Wesley. Worship services continued at the chapel until 1916. On April 17, 1916, the church relocated to 816 North Seventh Street. Reverend Branch purchased the property from Jessie and Mary Williams to construct Seventh Street Baptist Church’s first permanent church building. The church became a great pillar in the historic and unique Navy Hill neighborhood.
The King Solomon Lodge laid the cornerstone for the new church. Mrs. Susie Jackson served as the church’s first organist and remained in that ministry for thirty years. George Taylor served as church clerk, and Charles T. Wesley became the first Sunday School Superintendent. Under the leadership of Reverend William H. Branch, the church extended its mission beyond its walls. The congregation provided support to Virginia Theological Seminary and College in Lynchburg, Virginia, Virginia Union University in Richmond, and the Afro-American Old Folks Home in Richmond.
In 1939, Seventh Street Baptist Church was recognized as one of the leading churches in Richmond, Virginia. Reverend William Henry Branch served faithfully as pastor for 32 years. Pastor Branch entered into eternal rest on February 3, 1941. His Homegoing Service was held at Fifth Street Baptist Church, and he was laid to rest in Woodland Cemetery. Following Reverend Branch’s passing, the church was led by Deacon William A. Jackson and Reverend Benjamin F. Ross.
The Seventh Street Mission Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Charles B. F. Hinton
Seventh Street Triumphant Baptist Church
THE LEADERSHIP OF DR. CHARLES B.F. HINTON
On October 14, 1941, Reverend Charles Brantley Forest Hinton was called to pastor Seventh Street Baptist Church. He was installed as pastor on November 1, 1941. Under Dr. Hinton’s leadership, church membership increased, existing ministries were revised, and new ministries were established. On February 12, 1943, the congregation celebrated the burning of the mortgage on 816 North Seventh Street.
On March 25, 1946, land was acquired for the construction of a new church edifice at 916–912 North Seventh Street. Groundbreaking took place on January 17, 1948. After two years, eleven months, and twenty-three days of construction, the congregation marched into its new church building on June 10, 1951.
The second Sunday in June is observed annually as Church Day, commemorating the congregation’s entrance into its new sanctuary. In 1953, the name “Triumphant,” meaning “Victorious,” was added to the church’s name. Seventh Street Baptist Church became Seventh Street Triumphant Baptist Church.
RELOCATION AND A NEW BUILDING
In 1965, Seventh Street Triumphant Baptist Church stood as a beautiful monument at the corner of Preston and Seventh Streets. However, the church was forced to relocate due to the Urban Renewal project associated with the construction of Interstate 64. During this transition, worship services were held at the Brookland Park Theater on West Brookland Park Boulevard. The congregation persevered while awaiting the completion of its new home.
In 1967, the congregation moved into its third church building at 2003 Lamb Avenue, Richmond, Virginia. This new edifice became known as Triumphant Baptist Church. On March 6, 1978, the final mortgage on the new edifice was given as a memorial to Deacon Freeman Allen. The Mortgage Burning Service was held on Sunday, July 23, 1978.
Throughout Dr. Hinton’s administration, the congregation of Triumphant Baptist Church continued to strive, grow, and multiply. Dr. Hinton faithfully served as pastor until October 30, 1977, completing 36 years of pastoral leadership. Following his departure, a schism occurred within Triumphant Baptist Church. Through this difficult season, the congregation remained steadfast, guided by faith in God and strengthened by perseverance.
Triumphant Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Arthur M. Jones Sr; Pastor Emeritus
THE LEADERSHIP OF
DR. ARTHUR M. JONES SR.
On November 4, 1978, Dr. Arthur Mitchell Jones was called to the pastorate of Triumphant Baptist Church. He was installed on January 21, 1979.
Under Dr. Jones’ administration, Triumphant Baptist Church experienced significant spiritual and financial growth. Outreach ministries expanded, and a scholarship ministry was established. The church also participated in ministries and initiatives including Caritas, the Elizabeth Project, and Mega Sports Camp.
For 45 years, Dr. Jones led Triumphant Baptist Church with dedication, compassion, wisdom, and love. His ministry left an enduring mark on the congregation and the surrounding community.
On July 27, 2024, Rev. Dr. Arthur M. Jones’ Celebration of Retirement was held at Sharon Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia. Following his retirement, Triumphant Baptist Church honored Dr. Jones as Pastor Emeritus, recognizing his 45 years of faithful service and leadership.
A NEW SEASON OF FAITH, HOPE, AND RENEWAL
Triumphant Baptist Church continues to stand upon the rich foundation laid by those who came before us. Our history is one of faith, sacrifice, perseverance, service, and victory.
On July 8, 2025, Reverend Pierre L. Greene was selected to serve as Interim Pastor of Triumphant Baptist Church. On February 14, 2026, Reverend Pierre L. Greene was called to serve as pastor of Triumphant Baptist Church. His Pastoral Installation was held on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
Pastor Pierre L. Greene serves as the fourth pastor of Triumphant Baptist Church. His ordained calling and leadership usher the church into a new season of ministry, service, and spiritual growth.
Under Pastor Greene’s leadership, Triumphant Baptist Church embraces a renewed vision to rebuild, restore, and renew, not only within the church but throughout the community.
Today, faith and hope renewal adorn Triumphant Baptist Church. The congregation honors its rich history and heritage while pressing forward into the future with confidence in God.
From the 28 members who gathered in a rented chapel on North Seventh Street in 1909 to the congregation worshiping today, Triumphant Baptist Church remains a testimony of God’s faithfulness.
Our history is rich.
Our heritage is strong.
Our faith is steadfast.
Our hope is renewed.
And our future is in God’s hands.
Our heritage is strong.
Our faith is steadfast.
Our hope is renewed.
And our future is in God’s hands.
Triumphant Baptist Church presses forward into a new season under the leadership of Pastor Pierre L. Greene, trusting God to rebuild, restore, and renew His church and His people.
Pastor Rev. Pierre L. Greene, M. Div; MBA