Pastor John A. Russ
Rev. John A. Russ was born to the late Rev. Moses and Lillie Russ on February 28, 1938, in Romeville, La. At the tender age of eight years old, Rev. Russ was baptized by his father, at The Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. His educational foundation stems from the following: McCormick School of Music of Lutcher, La., where he began his musical training at the age of twelve. He is a graduate of Cypress Grove High School of Lutcher, La., and served a tour of duty in the United States Army. Upon his return, he continued his studies at Delgado Junior College, and Strait Business School of New Orleans. He has spent many hours learning Baptist and Full Gospel Principles.
On Monday morning, June 5, 1955, he boarded the bus and moved to New Orleans, La. He joined First House Prayer Baptist Church under the leadership of his uncle, the late Rev Lester Guidery. The church was then located at Terpsichore and South Robertson Streets. Rev. Russ and his cousin, the late Rev. George Guidery formed a young, dynamic, gospel group, The Flying Clouds.
Through commitment and dedication, he extended his musical talents and played piano and organ for: Oak Grove Baptist Church, Shiloh Baptist Church. St. John Baptist Church, St. Andrew Baptist Church, and Stronger Hope Baptist Church Male Chorus. In 1959, he united with the Macedonia Baptist Church and served as the musician and choir director for thirty-nine years.
He has been a Sunday School Teacher for many years. He later taught Wednesday Night Bible Study Class. The Lord moved him to a higher calling, and after constant prayer and meditation, he accepted his calling. On February 25, 1996, he received his license to preach. He was ordained on February 27, 1998, by The Ideal Missionary Baptist and Educational Association, by Rev. Dr. C. S. Gordon, III, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. J. C. Profit.
In June 1998, Rev. Russ was elected pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church, and installed July 1998. Our pastor is affiliated with the following organizations:
Gatekeepers Baptist Association
Louisiana Baptist State Convention
National Baptist Convention
Rev. Russ is the husband of the late Sis. Verdia Russ. He is the father of seven children, loving them all and teaching them God’s way. He is excited about his grandchildren, especially his twins, “Fat and Skinny.”
The Macedonia Family is proud of their “Bible Preacher and Teacher,” and blessed to have a leader who is articulate, compassionate, intelligent, sincere, faithful; and above all, he is truly one of God’s chosen vessels!