OUR HISTORY

EMMANUEL BAPTIST CHURCH
A LEGACY OF FAITH SINCE 1926

Serving the Stockton community for 99 years with unwavering faith and leadership.

ABOUT THE CHURCH

Emmanuel Baptist Church is located in the City of Stockton, California — home to approximately 319,000 people in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley.

Founded in April 1926 by the late Rev. Henry Potts, the church has flourished for 99 years, serving with strong, consistent leadership and a heart for Christ.

PASTORAL LEADERSHIP THROUGH THE YEARS

1926
1939
Rev. Henry Potts

Years Served: 1926 – 1939
Note: Deceased in office

1939
1952
Rev. J.H. Moore

Years Served: 1939 – 1952
Note: Deceased in office

1952
1959
Rev. Joseph Solomon Sutton

Years Served: 1952 – 1959
Note: Left for another pastorate

1960
1992
Rev. Henry F. Dean

Years Served: 1960 – 1992
Note: Deceased in office

1994
Present
Rev. Samuel Smith Jr.

Years Served: 1994 – Present
Note: Still serving faithfully

Rev. Henry Potts

Years Served: 1926 – 1939
Note: Deceased in office

Rev. John Henry Moore

Years Served: 1939 – 1952
Note: Deceased in office

Rev. Joseph Solomon Sutton

Years Served: 1952 – 1959
Note: Left for another pastorate

Rev. Henry F. Dean

Years Served: 1960 – 1992
Note: Deceased in office

Rev. Samuel Smith Jr.

Years Served: 1994 – Present
Note: Still serving faithfully

GROWING TOGETHER IN FAITH

Emmanuel Baptist Church currently has over 800 members, with approximately 550 active in worship and ministry.

Through nearly a century of service, Emmanuel remains a place where all are welcome, rooted in biblical principles, led by the Holy Spirit, and committed to community and Christ.

Want to Know More?

If you have questions about Jesus, salvation, or would simply like to learn more about our church and what we believe — we’d love to talk with you.