Once known as Williams Baptist Church the Greater Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church holds a special place in history. The Greater Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church’s journey began in 1879. It started at its old site in Hernando Mississippi.
Initially named Williams Baptist Church the congregation later dissolved. It then re-established itself as two separate churches. These were Greater Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church and Oak Hill Missionary Baptist Church.
Zion Hill moved about two miles north. They settled on a two-acre plot atop a small hill. Old General Robertson a former slave master donated this land. The church was often called the church on the hill. This led to its present name Greater Zion Hill. Joe Dennis was one of the founders. He and others donated their efforts to establishing the new church.
Greater Zion Hill experienced phenomenal growth. It was one of the largest churches in DeSoto County. This was until World War II. During this time African Americans migrated north. This decreased the area’s population.
Fire destroyed the church in 1952. It was rebuilt in 1954 but slightly smaller. Over the years Greater Zion Hill remained a leader in the community. The church served as a schoolhouse during the week. It was a house of worship on Sundays.
The 1970s saw renovations under Rev T.L. Tipton’s leadership. New pews painting and modernizations were added. Other pastors included Rev James Smith Rev Zelma Morris Rev Ernest Payne and Rev C.L. Ladd.
More renovations occurred under Rev Ernest Payne from 1981 to 1989. The old church was bricked after several accidents. The church grew spiritually under Pastor Payne’s guidance.
In 1990 Rev C.L. Ladd became pastor serving twelve years. Rev C.L. Ladd envisioned a new church. He worked with officers and the congregation. Under his leadership Greater Zion Hill accomplished much. This included weekly services and purchasing land for a new church site in 1994. The church continued to grow spiritually under Pastor Ladd’s leadership.
Church members prayed faithfully to realize Rev Ladd’s vision. The building committee worked tirelessly. In 1999 plans began for a new church building. In 2001 the Greater Zion Hill M.B. Church Family began construction. Deacon Adell Dennis and Sherry Dennis owned A & S Construction. They built the new facility. Rev Ladd’s vision was becoming visible. He passed away in November 2001.
The church continued to build without a pastor. Rev Ernest Payne was elected as the new pastor in April 2002. Later in April 2002 the Greater Zion Hill Church Family moved into the new sanctuary. Under Pastor Payne’s leadership the church continued to grow. He served for nine more years before his death in March 2011.
Through prayer God revealed a new leader. Bishop Brian Dewayne Olden became minister teacher and servant in January 2012. Bishop Olden was installed as Pastor of Greater Zion Hill M.B. Church on April 29 2012. Bishop Olden is undertaking a vision inspired by God. The church is preparing for a new horizon in ministry. It aims to become an oasis of love. Bishop Olden is reaching desolate souls. He is leading them to Christian maturity.
The Greater Zion Hill M.B. Church Family thanks God. They are grateful for the opportunity to build Him a house. Their prayer remains “Lord Bless This House”. This prayer reflects their enduring faith and commitment.