In a move that blends a storied past with a vision for the future, the historic Riverside Baptist Church of Monroe has officially elected Rev. Quincy Knox as its new spiritual leader. The Reverend Knox preached his first sermon as pastor at Riverside on February 15, 2026.
The election of Rev. Knox marks a significant new chapter for a congregation that has stood as a pillar of faith in the community for over 120 years.
Rev. Knox steps into a pulpit previously occupied by seven previous leaders who guided the church through periods of rapid growth, economic hardship, and physical rebuilding.
Of the seven previous pastors of Riverside, several were titans of the Pulpit, including Rev. H.Y. Bell, Rev. W.H. Sanders, and its longest-serving pastor, Rev. C.R. Jackson, who is now Pastor Emeritus at Riverside.
The Titans of the Pulpit at Riverside
Rev. Knox joins a lineage of “capable shepherds” who shaped the identity of Riverside Baptist. Three pastors, in particular, left an indelible mark on the congregation and the Monroe community.
- Rev. H.Y. Bell (1930–1969)
Elected during the height of the Great Depression, Rev. Bell inherited a church in dire financial straits—facing a debt of over $2,200 with only $0.72 in the treasury. Over his 39-year tenure, Bell not only cleared the debt but also erected a new edifice. A graduate of Coleman College and Bishop College, he was a giant in the Baptist Association until his passing in 1969. - Rev. W.H. Sanders (1970–1981)
Rev. Sanders took the mantle in 1970, leading the congregation for nearly 12 years. His tenure was marked by spiritual stability and continued community presence before he resigned in 1981 to accept a pastorate in Oakland, California. - Rev. C.R. Jackson (1982–2025)
Rev. Jackson’s leadership was defined by resilience. Under his watch, the church grew “spiritually, physically, and financially.” However, his greatest test came on June 17, 2000, when a lightning strike during a thunderstorm ignited a fire that destroyed the church home. Under Jackson’s guidance, the congregation refused to scatter, worshiping at Zion Hill and the old St. Mary Baptist Church while maintaining their bond, rebuilt the facility on Powell Avenue.
Looking Ahead
Rev. Quincy Knox inherits a congregation known for its “forward move” mentality. As he takes the helm of the Riverside Baptist Church of Monroe, he carries the weight of 123 years of history—from the first $5.00 donation to the ashes of the 2000 fire—into a new era of ministry.
The congregation has expressed a renewed sense of “anxious support” for their new pastor, echoing the same spirit that helped Rev. Bell rebuild the church nearly a century ago.
