Pray for First Missionary Baptist Church in Tuscumbia, Alabama

We are praying for First Missionary Baptist Church in Tuscumbia, Alabama

First Missionary Baptist Church has faithfully served the Lord and its community since 1866. As the first African American church in the Shoals area of northwest Alabama, the congregation carries a rich spiritual and cultural legacy. In nearly 160 years of ministry, the church has had only 14 pastors, a testimony to stability and long-term shepherding.

Its first pastor, W. E. Norcross, helped lay the foundation for what would become a historic and steadfast congregation. One of its most beloved leaders, Otis B. Smith Jr., faithfully served for more than 50 years. Today, the church is led by Jimmy D. Shaw Jr., who has been serving as pastor for over two years and is guiding the congregation through a meaningful season of transition.

Once averaging more than 200 in attendance, the church now averages around 80 and is steadily rebuilding. Yet the focus is not merely on increasing numbers. The deeper goal is to embrace the changes that come with time, to welcome the growing presence of youth, and to reach beyond the walls with renewed intentionality toward evangelism.

The youth ministry is growing numerically, and the church is praying earnestly for strong spiritual formation. They desire the right curriculum and the right leaders—individuals who are biblically grounded, engaging, and committed to shaping young hearts for Christ. The congregation is also seeking healing for hearts that were deeply affected during the two years between the passing of their former pastor and the calling of their current shepherd. They are praying that God will establish the right systems, structures, processes, and people so that this historic church may continue to glorify Him and be faithful laborers in His harvest.

Pastor Shaw has been married to his wife, Felicia, for nearly 30 years. Together they have three teenage sons. They also raised a niece, whom they lovingly call their daughter; she is now 28 years old and serving as a nurse. The family is grateful for God’s blessings and humbly asks for continued prayer as they stand firm amid spiritual challenges.

Prayer Requests:

• Pray for an increased desire and ability within the congregation to evangelize and boldly share the Gospel of Christ.

• Pray for financial stability. While membership is growing, revenues have declined. Ask the Lord to sustain and strengthen the church according to His will so that it may carry out His vision in the community.

• Pray for a strong, biblically grounded youth ministry supported by healthy systems, structures, and processes.

• Pray for Pastor Shaw and his family—for protection, strength, and unity.

• Pray for wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and courage for all members of the household of faith as they move forward together.

Join in prayer for First Missionary Baptist Church in Tuscumbia, that God would use this season of transition to produce lasting spiritual fruit for generations to come.