“In 2021, God called Pastor Dallas Blacklock Sr. to lead First Mt. Carmel MBC.” That’s how the story of the current chapter of First Mount Carmel Baptist Church in Houston begins. But the story stretches back much further. Today we will delve into the inspiring history of this beacon of faith.
First Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith. It is also a landmark in Houston’s Historic 5th Ward. Its story is one of community and devotion.
In 2021, Pastor Dallas Blacklock Sr. took the helm. He succeeded Rev. Alan K. Brown. Brown had diligently pastored for 36 years. Pastor Dallas’s dream became a reality on May 3rd. The church believes it will impact the world. It also aims to ignite others to spread the gospel. First Mt. Carmel is a house of prayer. It welcomes all people. Its unconditional love makes it the Church with Outstretched Arms.
Before 2021, the history of another Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church in Houston stretches back to 1915. It was first organized as Nelson’s Chapel Baptist Church. The origin of that name remains unknown. By 1921, it was renamed Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church. Reverend Romeo C. Austin was the pastor. The name change came from a sermon. It was based on I Kings 18:39. This recognized the place where God rained down fire.
Reverend J.M. Bradley became pastor in 1925. He served for twelve years. During his time, several auxiliaries were established. These included Ushers and Nurses Aid and a Choir. Also the Baptist Young People’s Union, Sunday school and Mission. Under Reverend Bradley’s leadership the church purchased lot number 5. It was in block 54 of the W.R. Baker Addition. This became the present site of the church. It is located at Ruthven and Valentine.
In 1937, Robert T. Bingham became pastor. He served for eighteen years. In 1940, the church purchased lot 4. It was situated adjacent to the church. The old building was torn down. A new building was erected to face Valentine Street. Elizabeth Wilder recalled that lumber was hauled from Pastor Bingham’s lumberyard. It came from East Texas to Houston. He personally cut and prepared the lumber. Members felt blessed. They appreciated Pastor Bingham’s plans and labor.
In 1954, the church was remodeled. It was given a brick exterior. Soon after, the congregation fell into hard times. Eventually the congregation moved out. The building sat boarded up. By May 2008, officials demolished the structure.
Today, the Mt. Carmel Prayer Garden provides reflection. It holds a memory of the church. The church was once important to the community. The congregation had plans to rebuild their sanctuary.
First Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church’s journey reflects resilience. It shows deep community roots. Its history from 1915 to the present day showcases unwavering faith. The church continues to serve. It grows both spiritually and numerically. It remains a beacon of hope in Houston.