On May 24, 1938, a group of men and women assembled themselves together in a frame building, at the corner of Sixteenth and Alvord Streets, for the purpose of worshipping God.  This group of earnest God-fearing people, with a number of friends that God has sent to assist them, began "Striving Together for the Faith of the Gospel" and formed a Mission.  On June 28th., this mission was organized into a regular missionary Baptist church.  The church was named the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church and the Reverend Albert Batts was elected pastor. 

Under the leadership of Reverend Batts, the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church prospered, but on July 8, 1955, after several months of turbulence, the church split leaving sixty-two members.  Continuously "Striving for the Faith of the Gospel", the remaining members unanimously called the Reverend O. W. Armstead as pastor on October 19, 1955. 

Reverend Armistead's leadership brought a new vitality to the church and the church and the congregation grew rapidly.  In the fall of 1958, the church voted to relocate.  A contract was signed to purchase the church building at 1501 North College.  On January 11, 1959, Reverend Armistead, members and friends of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church marched to College Avenue Baptist Church.  In November, 1975, The Reverend Frank Alexander, an energetic young man came to College Avenue as an interim minister.  Under Pastor Alexander's guidance, the church flourished and many of the former members returned.  On October 7, 1977, the members met with the Pulpit Committee and unanimously called the Reverend Frank Alexander as pastor.  He was installed on November 16 - 20, 1977.

On June 18, 1989, we entered our new home the Oasis Of Hope Baptist Church.  We praise and thank God for all he has given us.  We pray that he will continue to bless us and that he will allow us to truly become an oasis of hope for all.

         (Sixteenth Street Baptist Church)