Church History

One hundred and thirty-five years ago (January 28, 1870) Mr. Thomas Oliver Bridgeforth donated and deeded a two-acre plot of land to New Hope M. B. Church ( formerly known as Idle M. B. Church ). New Hope M. B. Church had its early beginning in the above named log house, which is said to have had earth for its floor, shutters for windows, and one large door at the front entrance. As time moved on, this log house was replaced with a boxed building. It had two doors at the front entrance, glass windows and a wood floor. It, too, was used for church and school purposes.

Later, about the year, 1902, the leaders and pioneers of the community (known as Jago) purchased a frame church in the town of Nesbit, Mississippi ( Desoto County ). This time it was only used for church. The building was erected East and West, with double doors at the front entrance and two rear doors, one on each side.

In 1964, the frame church was replaced by a brick veneer building under the leadership of the late Pastor Willie J. Gray. Now, that brick veneer building is known as the Willie J. Gray fellowship Hall.

Since the remodeling of the old frame sanctuary in 1964, most of the physical as well as the spiritual growth of the New Hope M. B. Church can be attributed to the anointed, appointed leadership and God-given vision of the Reverend Dr. Sherman Louis Helton Sr. In June of 1978, the New Hope Church Family, under the direction of the Holy Spirit, elected Rev. Helton as Pastor. Since that time the church has experienced tremendous spiritual and physical growth as well as numerous bountiful blessings under his pastorate. Some of the major accomplishments are: the ordination of ten Ministers, appointment of several Deacons & Trustees, establishing full time Ministry, increasing of church membership, and the implementation of numerous Ministries.