Mount Gilead Missionary Baptist Church

In 1894, a small group, led by Deacon Louis Whitfield, began prayer meetings in the homes of members. This humble start marked the beginning of Mount Gilead Missionary Baptist Church. The group, initially around twenty members, moved from house to house before settling in a commissary store near Chesapeake Boulevard. Mount Gilead continued to grow. After Deacon Whitfield’s passing, Rev. George Odom shepherded the congregation. Following him, Rev. Jacob Barnes, the first ordained minister, built the first church building. This initial structure, located on Third Street, now known as Clements Street, even had an outdoor baptismal pool. Rev. Barnes served Mount Gilead for two decades. He was succeeded by Rev. John Mills, then Rev. Morris, Rev. Ashby, and finally, Rev. S. A. Lomax. The church’s location changed in 1926. The members, wanting a better location than facing the cemetery, purchased land from Mrs. Sarah Walton at the corner of Second Street (now Kennedy) and Elm Avenue. The entire church building was physically moved to its new location by Napoleon Dudley, Willis F. Freeman, and Junius McGlone with their mules and logs. Mount Gilead continued its journey under the leadership of Rev. W. W. Howell, starting in 1929. He served for twelve years. In 1942, Rev. John Rufus Gray became pastor. Under his guidance, Mount Gilead expanded its services from two Sundays a month to four or even five. Rev. Gray initiated a youth prayer meeting and oversaw the construction of a new edifice in 1951. This building included central heating, new furnishings, a Hammond organ, a piano, and an indoor baptismal pool. Rev. Gray was a prominent figure in both the church and the community. His contributions were recognized in 1956 when he received an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity. He later became pastor emeritus in 1971. The story of Mount Gilead Missionary Baptist Church demonstrates the enduring power of faith and community. From its humble beginnings in 1894 to its current location, it has served as a beacon of hope and spiritual growth.