About Us
Our Pastor
Bishop Dwayne C. Debnam
Faith, Integrity, Character, and Commitment serve as guiding principles for the life and ministry of Bishop Dwayne C. Debnam, the Senior Pastor of the Morning Star Baptist Church in Woodlawn, Maryland.
Bishop Debnam was called to serve Morning Star in August 1996.
Bishop Debnam’s life reflects the God-inspired words of the prophet Isaiah that “they that wait upon The Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
Our Leading Lady
Dr. Carla J. Debnam
Bishop Debnam’s life reflects the God-inspired words of the prophet Isaiah that “they that wait upon The Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
Dr. Debnam is the founder of The Renaissance Center in Gwynn Oak, MD. The center is a Christian counseling center that has been in existence since July 2001 and is an outreach ministry of Morning Star Baptist Church.
Pastor’s Bible Study
Join us weekly for our RE-Charge Bible Study sessions designed to uplift and inspire. Study sheets will be posted every week to help guide your learning.
Our Vision
Our Beliefs
Our History
Legacy of Resilience: The Story of Morning Star Baptist Church
Founded in 1896, Morning Star Baptist Church has been a pillar of faith and resilience in the Catonsville, Maryland community for over a century. Its journey began at 48 ½ Winters Lane, a humble brick building that, despite early challenges, symbolized the unwavering spirit of its congregation. On their first day of worship, the congregation found their benches smashed by an angry contractor over an unpaid debt. This faith-testing experience only strengthened their resolve.
For 33 years, Morning Star Baptist Church grew and adapted, eventually laying a cornerstone in 1929. The following year, the church sold its original building to the Masons and purchased a new location on Roberts Avenue from Macedonia Baptist Church. This period marked significant growth, with the church incorporating in 1930 and constructing a new sanctuary on an adjacent lot in 1945. Further expansions included the addition of halls, parking lots, and numerous beautification projects.
In 1979, under the leadership of Rev. Jentry McDonald Sr., the church moved to a larger location at 154 Winters Lane. Remarkably, they managed to pay off a 30-year mortgage in just 11 years. This move facilitated further growth and set the stage for future developments.