“Trust God even when you can’t trace God.” That is the motto of First Mount Calvary M.B. Church. This reflects the church’s journey. It speaks to its faith and resilience. We are standing before the First Mount Calvary Baptist Church. It is a testament to faith and community. It is located on South Kenwood Avenue in Chicago.
First Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church has a rich history. It began with humble beginnings in 1951. A small group of nine faithful members gathered. They worshiped at the home of Brother and Sister Woods. Their home was on Forestville Avenue.
In January 1952, the church purchased its first building. It was located on South Princeton Avenue. The members elected Rev. J.P. Sloane as their pastor. He served from 1952 until 1955. Rev. Joseph E. Pilot was elected as pastor in 1955. He served until 1957. Later that year, Rev. Samuel M. Hart came from Memphis, Tennessee. He was called to lead First Mount Calvary.
Under Rev. Hart’s leadership, the church prospered. Membership increased significantly. Recognizing the need for a larger space, First Mount Calvary purchased its present home in 1960. The address is 6111 South Kenwood Avenue. It was formerly owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The church continued to grow. The gospel was preached. Many souls were saved. Rev. Hart remained the pastor until his death in 1985.
The late Rev. John Hooks and the Deacon Board kept the church united. In 1986, Rev. Franklin W. Williams was elected as pastor. Under his leadership, the church produced its first recording. It was titled “Thank You Jesus For My Journey.” Rev. Williams served until January 1996.
Rev. Aubrey D. Blake became the interim pastor in February 1996. He was officially installed as pastor in June 1996. Under his leadership, the church mortgage was burned in April 1999. Rev. Blake resigned in September 2003.
In 2011, the church name was changed to The 1st Mount Calvary M.B. Church. During this transition, they evangelized the community. Rev. Robert A. Cain, Sr. served as pastor until 2015. In 2016, Rev. John E. Thompson, Jr. became the Senior Pastor.
The church faced difficult times. Membership decreased. The building deteriorated. The Covid-19 Pandemic hit. But the members of The 1st Mount Calvary M.B. Church unified.
In 2021, Rev. Dr. Odel Sterling III became Interim Pastor. He officially became the Senior Pastor in 2022. Under his leadership, the church building’s exterior has been restored. The church created a brand logo. New members have joined. Rev. Sterling’s preaching has renewed faith and hope in the members.
The Mission of The 1st Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church of Chicago strengthens the body of Christ. It also grows the Kingdom of God. The church is dedicated to preaching and teaching God’s Holy Scriptures. It is committed to extending the love of Jesus Christ. The church family welcomes all. It invites you to join them for worship. Services are held at a temporary location on South Essex Avenue. Sunday School is at 9:30 am. Worship Service is at 11:00 am.
First Mount Calvary Baptist Church is more than just a building. It is a community. It’s a family. It is a place where faith is nurtured. It is where hope is renewed. It’s a place where everyone is welcome.