Rev. Charles Favors, of Phoenix, Arizona served as pastor of Pilgrim Baptist Church May 1945 – 1960. 
The Favors were “father and mother” to the children, and the Pilgrim family, and loved every member.
Pastor Favors will always be remembered for his strength and courage during the dark and lean days following the fire, November 15, 1948. As he stood in the wee hours of the morning watching his flock weeping he said, “Under God we will build it back.” Due to his commitment, love for God, the Pilgrim family he forged forward leading the way spiritually, physically, and financially.
Under his leadership the first “Children’s Church” was established. His son, Dr. John Favors was ordained as Junior Church Pastor. First Deacons was (Rev. Spencer E. Campbell and Rev. James Haynes).
Rev. Favors had a birthday party for all of the children on his birthday which was in January. He retired in 1960 and returned to Phoenix.
Pilgrim Baptist History
1917 - Believers from Brewton, Alabama, organized the Pilgrim Baptist Church. They started Wednesday prayer meetings and Sunday School in a storefront building in the 1700 block of North 24th Street. After much prayer, thoughts, and desire for a church site, the believers rented a vacant building at 26th and Franklin Streets.
1920 - On September 20, the Pilgrim congregation marched from 26th and Franklin Streets, to the present location, 2501 Hamilton Street.
1948 - On November 15, Men's Day brought the era of the old Pilgrim to close. By midnight, news spread that Pilgrim was on fire. By morning, four walls were left standing, the the bell tower, and an open Bible left in the pulpit. By the Grace of God, the Bible sustained minimal damage. Zion Baptist Church opened its doors to Pilgrim. Rebuilding of the Church began.
1998 - Under the leadership of Dr. Negil McPherson, Sr. Pilgrim held its "Grand Opening and Dedication" of the 7,339 square ft Education Wing. This addition was dedicated as the "Leola Jones Fellowship Hall".
2003 - Two, 20-unit apartments (one located on the southwest corner, and one located on the northwest corner of the church) were built to serve the elderly and other qualified citizens of our community. This project was made possible by a joint effort of Pilgrim Baptist Church, Omaha Economic Development Corporation, and a HUD grant.
2004 - January, Rev. Cedric L. Perkins became Pastor and was installed on March 14. Under the leadership of Rev. Perkins, Pilgrim continues to make the light brighter by practicing, teaching, and applying the Word as the Holy Spirit leads.
