In 1919, the Saint Paul Baptist Church was organized as the first African American church in Ventura County. Services were held in a temporary place until the edifice located at 318 West Seventh Street was donated. Saint Paul’s first pastor was the late Reverend Penigrew.(Shown in the 1919 photo). After Reverend Penigrew’s death, the late Reverend J. M. Brooks served as interim minister and later as pastor. From 1942 – 1944, G. G. Bailey served as Pastor. The first Board of Deacons was formed under Reverend Bailey’s leadership. The following brothers were chosen as Deacons: Isaiah Matthews, Henry Pierce and Andrew Lee. Sister Daisy Taylor was the church clerk. Edith Jamison served as the church pianist and later Carrie Pinkard was the pianist. A Trustee Board was later formed, composed of the following: James Montgomery, L. H. Patterson, Dee Pinkard, Henry Rhodes, and Ethel Willis. The Saint Paul Baptist Church received its papers of incorporation during this time. During the early 1950’s, the evening church services were broadcasted live from the sanctuary of the church. By this time the church had outgrown the small building and plans were underway to secure a larger church. Two lots were purchased but due to the foresight of Pastor Walker, he realized that a larger space was needed. Pastor Walker and the Board members sought and purchased the current location. January 1960, the new edifice, located at 1354 South “C” Street, was completed. The first service was April 23, 1960.

November 20, 1972, the Reverend H. N. Edwards, a minister with a vision, a mission and a strong faith in God, was called to carry on the divine works of Jesus Christ. Rev. Edwards accepted his calling to pastor the Saint Paul Baptist Church in February 1973. November 11, 1990, The Reverend Dr. Broderick Alan Huggins was installed as the Pastor of the Saint Paul Baptist Church. Since his arrival at Saint Paul, this body of believers has grown on all levels and is well known throughout the Ventura County area. The growth can be attributed to the profound teaching and preaching of Pastor Huggins and his genuine love for God’s people.

Over three hundred people were added to the church within the first year that Rev. Huggins was pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church. Bishop Huggins has implemented several ministries within the church, which focus on spiritual growth and promotes relationships. Some examples are Family & Friends weekend, Wednesday Night Live, Family Conference, Teaching Conferences, Month of Prayer & Consecration, Faith Café (Christian education for the young people), reorganization of the Women’s Ministry, Evangelism and much more. Through years of trial and victories we followed our Pastor as he followed Christ’s vision for the Saint Paul Baptist Church. Today, we see the manifestation of that vision – a gymnasium and family life center which will include a day care center. This will be a blessing not only to the members of St. Paul but also to the community of Oxnard. Today, we “possess the land”.