Rooted in Faith. Built for Community.
For over a century, the Iowa Missionary & Educational Baptist State Convention has united churches across Iowa, Illinois, and Nebraska in the shared work of the Gospel.
Our History
The Iowa Missionary & Educational Baptist State Convention was founded in the early twentieth century by a coalition of Black Baptist churches committed to missionary outreach, Christian education, and the spiritual and social uplift of their communities. Born out of the National Baptist Convention tradition, the IMEBSC was established to give affiliated churches in Iowa a unified voice and a shared platform for Kingdom work.
Founding Era
A coalition of Black Baptist churches across Iowa formally organized the Iowa Missionary & Educational Baptist State Convention, aligning with the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. The founding mission: missionary outreach, Christian education, and community uplift.
Growth & Expansion
The convention grew steadily, establishing auxiliary bodies including the Women's Auxiliary, the Deacons & Laymen's Board, and the Congress of Christian Education. Affiliated churches expanded beyond Iowa into Illinois and Nebraska, broadening the convention's reach and influence.
Strengthening the Network
The IMEBSC deepened its commitment to Christian education through district-level congresses and youth programming. The Annual Session became the cornerstone gathering — a multi-day convocation of worship, business, and fellowship drawing delegates from across the tri-state region.
Into the 21st Century
Today the convention continues to grow under renewed leadership, with a focus on equipping pastors and laypeople, supporting affiliated churches, and advancing the Gospel across Iowa, Illinois, and Nebraska. The Annual Session remains the heartbeat of the convention, gathering hundreds of delegates each August.
Mission & Vision
Our Mission
To unite affiliated Baptist churches across Iowa, Illinois, and Nebraska in the shared work of missionary outreach, Christian education, and community service — equipping pastors, deacons, and laypeople to advance the Kingdom of God in their communities and beyond.
Our Vision
A convention of thriving, Spirit-led churches — connected in fellowship, grounded in scripture, and active in service — that reflects the love of Christ to every community we serve.
Core Values
Faith
Rooted in the Word of God and the National Baptist tradition.
Fellowship
United across state lines in a shared covenant of worship and service.
Education
Committed to Christian education at every level — from youth to clergy.
Mission
Actively engaged in missionary work locally, regionally, and globally.
Convention Leadership
President
Rev. Dr. Jonathan B. Whitfield
Iowa Missionary & Educational Baptist State Convention
Rev. Dr. Jonathan B. Whitfield serves as President of the Iowa Missionary & Educational Baptist State Convention, bringing a steadfast commitment to faith, fellowship, and the advancement of the Gospel across Iowa, Illinois, and Nebraska. Under his leadership, the convention has strengthened its auxiliary ministries, deepened its investment in Christian education, and expanded fellowship among its affiliated churches. Dr. Whitfield is a devoted pastor, preacher, and servant-leader whose vision for the IMEBSC is grounded in scripture and shaped by decades of ministry.
National Affiliation
The Iowa Missionary & Educational Baptist State Convention is a proud affiliate of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. — the largest African American religious organization in the United States. This affiliation connects IMEBSC churches to a national network of over 31,000 congregations and 7.5 million members, providing resources, fellowship, and a unified voice for Baptist witness across America and around the world.
Visit NBC, USA, Inc.Ready to Connect?
Whether you represent a member church or are exploring affiliation, we'd love to hear from you.