“A beacon of hope.” That’s what they called Mt. Olivet Baptist Church. This historic church in Harlem has a story as rich as its gospel music.
Mt. Olivet Baptist Church started as Gethsemane Mission in 1876. Officially recognized in 1878 it faced resistance from white religious powers. But its founding members persevered. Their first building stood on 53rd Street and 6th Avenue. People praised it as the most beautiful Black church in New York City. Today the New York Hilton stands there.
In the 1920s, Mt. Olivet played a unique role. Marcus Garvey’s followers gathered here. They prepared for voyages to Africa fueled by dreams of repatriation. In 1925, Mt. Olivet moved to its current location on Lenox Avenue at 120th Street. This move marked a significant moment. The congregation purchased a former synagogue Temple Israel for $450000. It was the largest sum a Black congregation had ever paid for a worship house at the time. Even now you can spot Stars of David in the stained glass and atop the columns.
Rev. Daniel Washington Wisher the first pastor was a force. He formed the Original Grant Guards New York State’s first colored militia. Rev. Wisher bought land in Bellport Long Island. His vision was to create a colored colony with an orphanage and a home for the elderly. He was also active in the New York Anti-Slavery Society. Furthermore he became the youngest president of the New England Baptist Missionary Convention. This convention represented African-American Baptists.
Other pastors also left their mark. Rev. C. T. Walker the second pastor established the Harlem YM and YWCA. Dr. William Preston the fourth pastor ran for Congress and moved the church to Harlem. Dr. O. Clay Maxwell the fifth pastor created Harlem’s first after-school program. He also organized the Council of Churches and the National Congress of Christian Education.
Mount Olivet’s current pastor Rev. Dr. Charles A. Curtis continues this legacy. He champions community involvement and civil justice. He helped pass the Global Sullivan Principles in New York City Council. These principles promote justice in the business sector. Thanks to his leadership Mount Olivet is known as “the Community Church”. It runs a food program and provides clothing to those in need. Political figures often address the Harlem community here.
Mt. Olivet Baptist Church stands as a testament. It reflects faith community action and the enduring spirit of Harlem. Its history is a vital part of New York City’s story.