Baptists are Christians distinguished by baptizing believers, and doing so by complete immersion. Baptist churches also generally subscribe to the tenets of competency of soul, salvation through faith, scripture as the rule of faith and practice, and the autonomy of the local congregation.   They also recognize two ordinances, baptism and the Lord's supper; and two ministerial offices, pastor and deacon.

Pre-Civil War, Blacks were provided religion as a form of social control; and administered under the watchful eye of the slave owner.  Following the Civil War, Blacks quickly formed their own churches, associations, and conventions to operate freely without white supervision. These institutions offered self-help and racial uplift, a place to develop and use leadership, and places for proclamation of the gospel of liberation.

National Baptist Convention, USA

National Baptist

   Convention of America

Progressive National

   Baptist Convention

Churches in the Community

Baptist

Denominations:

Congregations:

Major

Black Baptist Conventions