meet our Pastor 

Rev. Dr. David Jones Sr., a native of Simmesport, Louisiana, was born on March 3, 1939. He accepted Christ in September 1948 at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church under the leadership of Henry Wright. As the eldest of thirteen children born to the late Pearl and Selcer Jones, Rev. Jones was nurtured in a household that emphasized faith, service, and family values.

A graduate of Dunbar High School in Simmesport, Class of 1956, Rev. Jones also proudly served in the United States Army Reserves, earning an honorable discharge in July 1957. In 1959, he moved to Dallas, Texas, to expand his opportunities and pursue higher education. He enrolled at Bishop College in 1968 and later attended the D. Edwin Johnson Baptist Institute, where he refined his theological and pastoral skills.

Rev. Jones’ ministry began in earnest in 1962 when he was ordained as a Deacon. In 1966, he was ordained as a Minister under the mentorship of the late Rev. E. W. Robertson at New Mount Gilead Baptist Church. In 1970, he was called to serve as the Pastor of New Mount Gilead, a role he held with dedication for 17 years. His leadership extended beyond his church, as he served as Vice Moderator of the Peaceful Rest District Association in 1978, and then as Moderator from 1987 to 2000.

In the summer of 1987, Rev. Jones answered God’s call to pastor Arlington Park First Baptist Church, where he has been faithfully serving for over three decades. He earned his Doctorate Degree in Theology in 1988, underscoring his commitment to spiritual and educational growth. An active member of the Interdenominational Ministers Alliance for more than 50 years, Rev. Jones currently serves as the organization's Treasurer.

Rev. Jones has been blessed with a devoted partner in life, Mrs. Eterial Jones, whom he married in August 1960. Their enduring union has been a testament to love and faith, and together they have raised three children, enjoyed the blessings of thirteen grandchildren, and witnessed the growth of nine great-grandchildren.

Guided by his favorite scripture, Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV), Rev. Jones exemplifies unwavering trust in God:
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

Rev. Dr. David Jones Sr. is a compassionate leader, a dedicated teacher, and a steadfast servant of God, whose legacy continues to inspire his family, church, and community.