God’s vision it was. That’s how the New Mount Zoar Church came to be a beacon. It stands as a testament to faith and community.
New Mount Zoar Church’s story starts around 1866. Jackson Hughes a former slave from Louisiana, settled in Fairfax Virginia. He arrived after following the Union Army. This area was first known as Jacksonville Settlement. Later it was named Hughesville Settlement.
Jackson met Mariah Beckwith shortly after settling here. Mariah was born a slave in Fairfax County. After they married, they sought land to build a church. Jackson Hughes together with Charles Botts, Sanford Botts, Andrew Green and Sarah Parker. Also Robert Kelsey and his wife were deeply involved to found the church.
The first meetings happened in a building near the old community cemetery. It sat on Hope Park Road. Initially, the church was named Zolar Baptist Church. Reverend Robert Goffney became the first Pastor in 1866. Before his arrival, various ministers would come to preach. Besides religious services, the building served as a school. It also hosted other community activities.
Rev. Goffney proposed building a new church. The congregation agreed. The Botts family donated land for the construction. This land was located on Pope Head Road in Fairfax County. The church was then renamed Mount Zoar Baptist.
Official records show the Botts family transferred the land on June 11, 1886. The price was a mere $8.00.
In April 1947, Rev. C.L. Rogers and his wife, Sister Lottie V. Rogers, were called to Mount Zoar Church. Rev. Rogers noticed the church’s aging condition. He felt a calling to build a new church. He wanted a more accessible location along a main highway.
After discussing with the deacons and members, they supported his vision. Deacon James Burke and Sister Mae Burke knew of a lot next to their property on Braddock Road. The church purchased this lot. Rev Rogers and Deacons Ray Barbour and Earline Metcalf worked hard to build the church. They sometimes worked all day and night.
On September 3, 1972, the New Mount Zoar Church was completed and dedicated. The pastor and congregation marched into the new building.
Many pastors have served New Mount Zoar. They include Rev. Robert Goffney. Also Rev. Clinton L. Rogers served from 1947 to 1994. Rev. Dr. Spencer Isaac serves from 1996 to the present. Their leadership shaped the church.
Today New Mount Zoar Church continues to thrive. It offers worship services every Sunday at 9:00 AM. Bible study takes place on Wednesdays at 7:00 PM. Youth Church meets on the 2nd Sunday at 11:30 AM. The New Mount Zoar Church welcomes all who seek peace.