1945 was a year of transition, hope, and new beginnings—not just for the world, but for Myers Park Baptist Church. As the war ended, the church stepped boldly into a new era of ministry, music, and education.

A New Era in Music
In April, Mrs. Frank Dowd brought an exciting recommendation from the Music Committee to appoint Miss Lauretta Bombara as full-time organist and Assistant Music Director. The committee praised her talents, personality, and professional presence, and unanimously endorsed her for the role.

July 1945 - Expanding Our Reach
July saw the church take a meaningful step toward broader community engagement. Following a motion by Mr. Bryant and seconded by Mr. McManeus, the congregation voted unanimously to join the North Carolina Council of Churches. This decision reflected a growing desire to connect with other faith communities and contribute to a shared vision of justice, compassion, and unity across the state.

Preparing for Growth
In September, Mr. Dowd emphasized the importance of preparing for future expansion. The Board tasked the Finance Committee with developing a plan for an upcoming Building Fund Campaign to be presented at the next meeting. This forward-thinking move laid the groundwork for the church's physical and spiritual growth in the years to come.

Strengthening Educational Ministries
The church’s commitment to education blossomed in 1945. In May, the congregation unanimously called Miss Evelyn Hampton of Winston-Salem to serve as Assistant Educational Director. A Meredith College graduate with honors, she was a passionate leader in the Baptist Student Union and at First Baptist Church of Raleigh before completing advanced training in Religious Education at Louisville. Known for her warm personality and deep faith, she was welcomed as a leader among the church’s youth, beginning her service in late May. 

To strengthen the church’s educational work, the Board of Deacons appointed a new Board of Education, chaired by Mr. J. E. Burnside and including Mrs. H. M. Short, Miss Pauline Huff, Mr. James R. Bryant, and Mr. J. Herbert Bridges. This board began its work of integrating and guiding the church’s educational ministries.

In October, Mr. LeNeave proposed that the Fellowship House be prepared to host two Sunday School classes, with the northeast corner room heated. The motion passed unanimously, marking another step in accommodating the church’s expanding ministries.

A Moment of Shared Thanksgiving
On August 15, as World War II came to an end, the congregation joined with neighboring churches in a historical act of worship and witness by gathering for “A Service of Worship Commemorating the End of a World War and the Beginning of a New Era.” Myers Park Baptist Church was joined by the Little Church on the Lane (Moravian), Christ Church (Episcopal), Myers Park Methodist Church, and Myers Park Presbyterian Church. This ecumenical service marked a historic moment of shared thanksgiving and hope, uniting the community in faith, heralding a new era of peace.

Looking Back, Moving Forward
1945 was more than a year of milestones—it was a turning point. In the wake of global upheaval, Myers Park Baptist Church chose to respond with vision, compassion, and courage. The decisions made that year continue to echo through our ministries today, reminding us that even in times of uncertainty, faith can lead us forward.