Imani Baptist Church of Christ, Inc.

Imani is a Swahili word that means faith. A faith-based institution, Imani Baptist Church of Christ has "come this far by faith."

In 1992, a seed was planted and a small branch of Zion named Imani was organized by a group of 125 Christians. Rev. Moses A. Knott was called to lead this fledgling congregation. Imani branched out from New Hope Baptist Church of East Orange and held its first service in the living room of Deacon and Deaconess Johnnie and Joanne Browne. From there the congregation moved to the YWCA of Essex and West Hudson in Orange, NJ and then to the St. John's Masonic Hall lodge in East Orange. Under Rev. Knott's leadership, the membership grew significantly. Many ministries and programs were added as Rev. Knott worked to realize his vision of "God's Mall", a church with a holistic approach to outreach and ministry. Then, in 1998, Imani moved to its permanent church home at 113-115 Elmwood Avenue, a beautiful cathedral that was once a major Catholic church.

When Rev. Knott retired, Rev. Leonard L. Smalls was called to pastor Imani. From 2002 to 2011, he continued to add significantly to Imani;s legacy. A visionary with an acute understanding of the role the church must play in the lives of people, Rev. Smalls' made major strides in making Imani an integral part of the East Orange community. In November, 2011, the Imani congregation celebrated a landmark occasion, the burning of the mortgage for its church and property.

In 2012, following Rev. Smalls' retirement, Imani began its search for a new pastor to lead the congregation. Rev. Charles "Chuck" Chamberlayne was sent by God to help the church during this transitional period. Under his leadership, Imani had made new strides in worship, Bible study, evangelism and outreach. We thank God for Rev. Chuck's leadership, direction and guidance.

We give honor to our Heavenly Father for all He has done during our 21 years. He has blessed our church mightily. He is worthy to be praised.

To God be the glory for the great things He has done!