In
February 1963, the adjoining building located at 475 Vermont street
was purchased. The parishioners, through their efforts and concern, loaned the
Church the funds for the purchase. The
church repaid each member their initial loan.
Building plans to renovate and decorate with new pews began. Two members donated $200.00 each, out their
small savings, so that the renovation contract could be consummated. The work on the church was completed by
April, with one hundred twenty-five members on roll, and seating capacity for150
persons. Renovations continued as God
blessed the efforts of Pastor Underwood and the Grace Baptist Church Family.
On July 17, the second mile of
our work for our Lord and Master began and the first four Deacons were
ordained. They were the late Major
Cunningham, Thomas Perkins, Harold Mattocks and William Jordan. Trustees were appointed at a later
date. Choirs and Auxiliaries were formed
and they grew in numbers.
The church
proceeded to become involved in education, housing, a freedom school and the East New York
Civil Rights Group. Many community
groups and Associations were organized on the church premises.