History
The Deacons' Conference of Richmond and Vicinity was organized in 1902 at the First African Baptist Church; Deacon W. R. Minor of the Second Baptist Church was the first president. He served as president for twenty-nine years.
The Conference has a rich history steeped in the glorious heritage of the Black Church. The Conference was a predominantly male organization until the late 70's. At which time, in the Richmond community, many churches with a clear vision through divine guidance, moved to ordain female deacons. These women joined the Conference and are active members. Rebecca T. Madison of The Mount Carmel Baptist Church was the first female Deacon to join the Deacons' Conference. On December 19, 1988, the first woman elected president was Deacon Grace R. Williams, Mount Tabor Baptist Church.
2007 marked "105" years: Partners with Pastors for Greater Ministry". Seven past presidents were honored.
We praise God for all He has done through His servant Leaders in this great organization, as we continue to grow, to share and to serve.
PRESIDENTS' TERM OF OFFICE
| Year | Deacons | Church |
|---|---|---|
| 1902 - 1931 | W. R. Minor | Second Baptist |
| 1932 – 1935 | Paul Carrington | Mount Olive Baptist (Bells Road) |
| 1936 – 1965 | James S. Christian | Fourth Baptist |
| 1966 – 1970 | Grover O. Chiles | Springfield Baptist (Glen Allen) |
| 1971 – 1976 | Robert A. Bracey, Jr. | Saint Peter Baptist (Glen Allen) |
| 1977 – 1980 | James H. Taylor | First Baptist (Southside) |
| 1981 – 1984 | William W. Manning | Fifth Street Baptist |
| 1985 – 1986 | Charles D. Carter | Westwood Baptist |
| 1987 – 1988 | James H. Taylor | First Baptist (Southside) |
| 1989 – 1991 | Grace R. Williams | Mount Tabor Baptist |
| 1992 – 1993 | William A. Hudgins | Quioccasin Baptist |
| 1994 – 1997 | Wilton L. Washington | Second Baptist (West End) |
| 1998 – 2001 | Harold Neal | Sharon Baptist |
| 2002 – 2005 | Donald M. Holman | Bethesda Full Gospel Baptist |
| 2006 - | Teresa G. H. Mason | Saint Paul’s Baptist |
