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​​​January

160th Anniversary Kick-off

January 2025 marked the beginning of our Year of Celebration as Paradise Baptist Church joyfully entered into the 160th Anniversary of our ministry. Rooted in our anniversary theme—“Remembering the Past, Celebrating the Present, Envisioning the Future”—we pause to honor the faith and sacrifices of those who laid the foundation, rejoice in the blessings God is pouring out today, and look ahead with hope to the great things He has in store. With hearts of gratitude and anticipation, we embrace this milestone year as a testimony of God’s faithfulness and a call to continue building for generations to come.

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February  

Heritage Sundays

In February, every Sunday was set aside as Heritage Sunday, a time to honor both our rich church history and the history makers who have shaped our journey. Each week we reflected on the legacy of faith, resilience, and service that has carried Paradise Baptist Church through generations. By lifting up the stories of our past and recognizing the contributions of those who continue to make history today, we celebrated the foundation upon which we stand and the vision that propels us forward.

 

South-View Cemetery Tour

As part of our 160th Anniversary celebration, Paradise Baptist Church hosted a special tour of South-View Cemetery, one of Atlanta’s most historic resting places and the final home of many trailblazers of faith, justice, and community leadership. Founded in 1886 by formerly enslaved African Americans, South-View stands as a powerful testament to resilience, dignity, and legacy. During the tour, participants learned about the lives and contributions of pastors, civic leaders, educators, and civil rights pioneers whose stories continue to inspire us today. The experience not only connected us with the history of our city, but also deepened our appreciation for the generations whose sacrifices made our present possible.

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March

Men’s Prayer Breakfast & Workshop

As part of Men’s Month, the Men's Ministry hosted a powerful Prayer Breakfast and Workshop where faith and fellowship came together around the table. Men of all ages united in prayer, lifting one another up and seeking God’s direction for their families, careers, and spiritual walk. The workshop provided practical tools for living out our faith with courage and integrity, reminding us that when we stand on God’s Word, we are indeed built for this.

 

Men’s Choir Celebration

The Men’s Choir lifted their voices in praise, filling the sanctuary with the strength and unity of brotherhood in song. Their powerful harmonies reminded us that worship is not just heard but felt — stirring hearts, inspiring faith, and declaring that the men of Paradise are committed to serving God with joy. Each selection echoed our theme, “Faith & Action: We Are Built for This,” testifying that God is worthy of every note and every life lived in devotion.

 

Repairs & Upkeep Around the Church

Living out the call to action, the men of Paradise dedicated time during March to serve through repairs and upkeep around the church. With willing hands and faithful hearts, they tackled projects that ensured our house of worship remains strong, welcoming, and well cared for. From small fixes to larger improvements, their work reflected the spirit of stewardship and brotherhood, showing that faith is not only proclaimed but also practiced in service. Truly, we are built for this.

 

April

Paradise Sneaker Ball

April was dedicated to celebrating the energy, creativity, and faith of our young people during Youth Month. With the theme of building a strong foundation for the next generation, our youth were front and center in worship, fellowship, and service. One of the highlights was the Sneakers Ball, a fun and faith-filled evening where our youth gathered in style to enjoy music, dancing, and fellowship in a safe, Christ-centered environment. The event encouraged self-expression, confidence, and community, reminding our young people that they can celebrate life with joy while keeping their faith at the core.

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Youth Day Speaker

Another impactful moment came as we welcomed a dynamic youth speaker from Friendship Baptist Church, who inspired our congregation with a powerful message tailored to the next generation of believers. Their words challenged our youth to grow deeper in their faith, embrace their purpose, and boldly live out their calling in today’s world.

 

May

Honoring Mothers

In May, Paradise Baptist Church joyfully celebrated the gift of motherhood, recognizing the love, sacrifice, and strength of the women who have shaped our families, church, and community. Through special tributes, prayers, and expressions of gratitude, we lifted up mothers of every generation—biological, spiritual, and adoptive—whose faith and dedication continue to inspire us. It was a month filled with love and appreciation as we honored the mothers of Paradise for the powerful role they play in nurturing faith and guiding lives with wisdom and grace.

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Live Production of the Dinah Watts Pace Story

Paradise Baptist Church was honored to present a live production of the Dinah Watts Pace story, celebrating the remarkable life and legacy of our church's founder. The production not only highlighted her historical contributions but also inspired all who watched to embrace their own calling with faith and determination.

 

June

Lead Pastor's Anniversary

As part of our year-long 160th Anniversary celebration, we honored Pastor Charles A. Harper III’s 21st  Pastoral Anniversary with two powerful worship services. Guest speakers Bishop Greg I. Fann of Liberty International Door of Hope Ministries and Rev. Dr. Darrell Elligan of True Light Baptist Church delivered inspiring messages, joining us in celebrating two decades of faithful leadership, vision, and service.

 

July

Women’s Day

Women’s Day was a highlight of the month, featuring an inspiring sermon by Dr. Weems. Her message uplifted and challenged women to live boldly in faith, embrace their God-given purpose, and serve as pillars of strength in their families, communities, and church.

 

Women’s Conference 
The Women's Ministry hosted “Generational Grace: A Conference for the Soul, Body, and Mind.” This conference provided a transformative experience where attendees engaged in worship, workshops, and fellowship. Centered on the theme Generational Grace, the conference encouraged women to embrace their faith, prioritize self-care, and honor the spiritual legacy they inherit and pass on.

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​Women’s Choir

The Women’s Choir brought together voices from different generations, blending youthful energy with seasoned experience to create a worship experience that was both powerful and moving..

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Women’s Month Pin
To celebrate the women of Paradise, the Women's Ministry offered  the Women’s Month Pin, a symbol of faith, legacy, and solidarity among the women of Paradise. The pin serves as a reminder of the strength, grace, and spiritual impact women continue to have within our church and community.

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August

Executive Pastor Appreciation Day

During our 160th Anniversary year, we joyfully celebrated Executive Pastor Rev. S. Tarnace Watkins, Sr. and Lady Jacquetta Watkin's 7th anniversary. The Paradise family honored their steadfast leadership, pastoral care, and unwavering commitment to the church’s mission. It was a meaningful tribute to seven years of faithful service and impact. 

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September

Faith, Family, and Fun Homecoming Weekend

Paradise Baptist Church joyfully marked its 160th Anniversary with the Celebrating 160 Years of Faith, Family, and Fellowship Homecoming Weekend. Rooted in the theme “Remembering the Past, Celebrating the Present, Envisioning the Future,” the two-day gathering brought together longtime members, returning families, and new friends for a heartfelt celebration of legacy and faith. The weekend featured uplifting worship, warm fellowship, and meaningful moments of reflection on God’s enduring faithfulness to our church across generations.

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October

Auburn Avenue Research Library Exhibit on Paradise Baptist Church

The Auburn Avenue Research Library hosted a special exhibit celebrating Paradise Baptist Church’s 160-year legacy (1865–2025). The display traced the church’s journey from its founding by Dinah Watts Pace in the post-Civil War era to its present role as a cornerstone of Atlanta’s spiritual and civic life. Through rare photographs, historic documents, and meaningful artifacts, the exhibit highlighted Paradise’s impact in worship, education, civil rights, and community service. Curated in honor of the church’s milestone anniversary, this exhibit invited visitors to remember the past, celebrate the present, and envision the future of faith in action.

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Paradise 160th Anniversary Banquet

Paradise Baptist Church marked its 160th Anniversary with an elegant banquet celebrating generations of faith and the enduring legacy of our congregation. The evening featured fine dining, music, and heartfelt reflections on God’s goodness through the decades. A special highlight was the recognition of our Heritage Honorees—Sis. Rosalyn Harper, Sis. Doris Freeman, Sis. Sharon Pullen, and Dea. Arnold—each honored for their steadfast service, spiritual leadership, and lifelong commitment to Paradise. It was a memorable night of gratitude, joy, and hope as we looked back with appreciation and forward with expectation.

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Paradise Culminating Anniversary Sunday Services
Our Year of Celebration reached a beautiful milestone with a powerful Anniversary Sunday that brought the Paradise family together in worship, gratitude, and joy. The day began with a spirit-filled 9:00 AM Worship Service, honoring God’s faithfulness across 160 years and lifting up the legacy that continues to guide our ministry. The celebration continued at 2:00 PM with a dynamic afternoon service featuring our special guests, Midway Baptist Church, who joined us in praise, fellowship, and shared thanksgiving. Together, both services marked a meaningful culmination of our anniversary observances—one moment in a historic year we are still joyfully celebrating as we look ahead to all God has in store for Paradise.​​​​