“Living to Love and Loving to Serve”. It is not just a motto. It encapsulates the spirit of Zion Hill Baptist. This church stands as a beacon of faith and community.
Zion Hill Baptist’s story is one of perseverance. It is a testament to the power of faith. The church’s history began in 1872. Seven former slaves founded it. Reverend Robert Grant led them. They gathered in a brush arbor. This was at the corner of Glenn and Humphreys Streets in Atlanta.
Over the years, Zion Hill Baptist grew. Pastors like Jesse Davis and Cyrus Wilkins guided the congregation. Crawford Holmes also played a role. They all contributed to the church’s development. A wooden church was built under Reverend W.W. Floyd.
As the congregation expanded, Zion Hill Baptist sought a new home. Reverend Claude H. Robinson led the search. The church purchased a building. It was located at the corner of Georgia Avenue and McDaniel Street.
In 1926, Reverend J.T. Johnson became pastor. Despite the Great Depression, Zion Hill Baptist thrived. The church paid off its first mortgage. This was a significant achievement.
Reverend Dr. Levi Terrell arrived in 1943. He was known as the “musical pastor”. His leadership broadened Zion Hill’s reach. He also increased its community impact. Property ownership also grew under his guidance.
In 1972, Reverend Larry H. Williams became the ninth pastor. Zion Hill Baptist bought a location on Lynhurst Drive in 1976. The church paid off a $400,000 mortgage. It also established a radio ministry. A scholarship program was created as well.
Zion Hill Baptist recognized Reverend Dr. Aaron L. Parker’s potential. He was installed as pastor in 1994. He had previously served as the church’s Youth Minister. He established the Care to Love Outreach Ministry. He implemented new music ministries like the Voices of Oluwa. The Azizi Children’s Choir was also created. The Rites of Passage Program gained national recognition.
Under Dr. Parker’s leadership, Zion Hill Baptist created numerous ministries. These included the Disciples Empowerment Summit. The Zion Hill Community Development Corporation also emerged. The First Women Deacons were appointed. The church expanded its outreach. It acquired rental properties and land. The church building underwent renovations.
In 2006, Dr. Parker led Zion Hill Baptist in “The Rock Project”. This was a $20 million building program. The church relocated to a 40-acre site on Campbellton Road.
The first phase of the new church was finished in 2010. Zion Hill Baptist moved in. The community welcomed them with enthusiasm. The new facilities supported the church’s growth. This expansion allowed Zion Hill Baptist to extend its services. The church continues to live by its creed. It strives to love and serve.
Zion Hill Baptist remains a vital part of the community. It embodies faith, service, and love. Its history is a reminder of what can be achieved through dedication. The church’s journey is ongoing. Zion Hill Baptist continues to impact lives.