By the providence of Almighty God, a group of Black Baptist pastors in Crittenden County, Arkansas came together to form a Christian organization committed to education, mission, and fellowship. As a result of their collective efforts, in 1874 the East Arkansas District Association was birthed. Over the years, more than forty (40) churches have been associated with the district.

From its inception, God has sent able Moderators to serve the district. The present Moderator, Pastor Frederick S. Anthony was elected in 2018. Dr. G. C. Simpson, Sr., has the longest tenure as Moderator at thirty-eight years.

The district provides services to churches through its various ministries. Ministries of the District include: the Parent Body; Pastors and Ministers Ministry; Congress of Christian Education Ministry; Layman Ministry; Women Ministry; Young People Ministry; Ushers Ministry; and Health and Wellness Ministry. Creating mission awareness and empowering laborers in the Lord’s Vineyard is vital to Kingdom-building.

Any Missionary Baptist Church in Crittenden County and beyond is eligible for membership in the District. The nature of the District is defined by its ideal of voluntary membership and participation at both the organizational and individual member levels.

Based on its financial qualifications, each church is entitled to send voting representatives, also called messengers, to the District. Messengers not only vote on matters of importance to the District, but they also carry back important information about the work of the District to their local church.