“More Light.” The very name suggests a place of hope. But, what is the story of More Light Baptist Church in Detroit?
Let’s step back in time. We will explore the rich history of Baptist churches in Detroit. The early 20th century witnessed a significant increase in Detroit’s African-American population. Between 1910 and 1920, the African-American community grew massively. It went from 5,741 to 40,838 residents. This surge led to a boom in African-American churches. There were only six in 1916. By 1926, there were over forty.
Many African Americans initially settled on Detroit’s east side. As they moved west, a need for churches arose. Reverend Edward Wendall Edwards played a vital role. He approached pastors from Second Baptist Church and the Detroit Baptist Union. They supported the creation of a new church. In 1917, the First Institutional Baptist Church of Detroit was established. Rev. Edwards became its first pastor. This was the first African-American religious institution west of Woodward Avenue in Detroit.
Rev. Edwards resigned in 1920 for missionary work. Reverend Charles Andrew Hill succeeded him. Soon after, the church’s name changed to Hartford Avenue Baptist Church. The congregation initially worshipped at 6326 Hartford. In 1924, a permanent structure was built. It stood at the corner of Hartford and Milford. By 1945, Hartford Avenue Baptist Church had over 1,000 members.
Rev. Hill believed in community development and political participation. His church hosted prominent figures. Paul Robeson sang and W.E.B. Dubois lectured there in the 1950s. Both were considered subversive at the time. Rev. Hill also led housing demonstrations. He opened the church to union organizers from the Ford Rouge plant.
In 1968, Charles Gilchrist Adams became the pastor. He had grown up in Hill’s church. Adams was a public leader. He attended the University of Michigan and Harvard Divinity School. Before returning to Hartford, he pastored Concord Baptist Church in Boston. Under Adams, the congregation doubled. In 1974, the church relocated to the former Covenant Baptist Church. It was located at 18700 James Couzens Drive. The move was completed in 1977. Membership tripled. By 1998, the church had over 7,000 members. In 1981, the church’s name changed again. It became Hartford Memorial Baptist Church.
Adams was also president of the Detroit branch of the NAACP. He participated in boycotts against Dearborn merchants. This was because they did not allow nonresidents in their parks. Adams also believed in using economic power. He wanted to improve the community. The church bought properties to rent or lease to businesses. This aimed to bring jobs to the area. Under Adams’ guidance, many community programs were developed. These included a free legal and medical clinic. Also a tutorial program. There was a Head Start program. Plus a job placement agency. The church also offered a crisis support line, a food co-op, and a scholarship fund. Adams was elected president of the Progressive National Baptists in 1998. He served a four-year term.
While specific details about More Light Baptist Church are not available here. The story of other Baptist churches showcases community engagement. These churches played a vital role. They fostered spiritual growth and social change in Detroit. They reflect the enduring spirit of faith.
So, as you stand before More Light Baptist Church. Remember the legacy. Consider the impact of faith. The church is a beacon of hope. It is a center of community. It is a place of light.