“From Vernon to Avers to 79th to Hoyne, this is our journey.” This motto encapsulates the rich history of Second Mt. Vernon Babtist. The story of Second Mt. Vernon Babtist begins with a man’s obedience and love for God. That man was Pastor Willie Lee Anderson.
Organized in June 1946, the church started in Pastor Anderson’s home at 2949 S. Vernon Ave. His family and neighborhood families formed the first members of Second Mt. Vernon Babtist. These families were pillars. People began to attend services. As membership increased, space became a challenge. Members searched for a larger space for Sunday services.
From his home to the YMCA to the Carver Hotel, the church grew. It even returned to his home’s basement. In March 1953, urban renewal forced the church to seek a new location. Pastor Anderson and the team found a home at 1859 S. Avers. The men transformed it into a place of worship. Second Mt. Vernon was officially incorporated on January 4, 1956.
In July 1958, Rev. R.H. Patton and his wife Emma joined. The church experienced rapid growth. Rev. Patton became the assistant pastor under Pastor Anderson. Rev O.C. Brand worked with the youth. Due to health issues, Rev. Willie L. Anderson relocated to Oakland. He appointed R.H. Patton as pastor.
On April 19, 1970, Rev. Relious H. Patton was installed as Pastor. Rev. Lee A. Davis became the Assistant Pastor. The church continued to receive blessings. The building was filled to capacity. In the summer of 1975, Pastor Patton found a property at 2101 W. 79th St. The board approved it as the new church home.
Second Mt. Vernon Babtist moved in November 1975. Rev. Patton preached “Give Me This Mountain”. In 1976, he emphasized tithing. He taught that the church’s support comes from tithing. On July 5, 1977, Rev. Willie Lee Anderson passed away. He had organized the church on love and faith. His dream lived on. The motto “Let Love Abide” suited the congregation.
Under Patton’s leadership, the church grew spiritually. He equipped members to be witnesses for Christ. Outreach ministries helped the church to grow during this period. Rev. Patton dreamed of building a church from the ground. The church purchased lots at 79th and Hoyne.
Like Moses, Rev. Patton saw the promise land. He would not cross over. On June 18, 1986, Pastor Relious H. Patton passed. On July 27, 1986, Rev. Lee A. Davis was installed as Pastor. Rev. James Green became the Assistant Pastor. Pastor Lee A. Davis studied the word of God. Rev. Green was a preaching machine.
On November 6, 1988, members marched into their new church home. On July 24, 2013, Assistant Pastor James Green passed suddenly. Rev. Green’s death shook Pastor Davis. Rev. Kevin McDonald became the Assistant Pastor. On May 1, 2016, Pastor Lee A. Davis passed. On September 18, 2016, Rev. Kevin Mc Donald was elected as Pastor. On November 6, 2016, Rev. Kevin McDonald was installed. His intention was clear: to get back to the root of the matter which is love.
Second Mt. Vernon Baptist Church was established in 1926. Pastor W.M. Jones led the church. It started with only seven members. The church was on the move without a permanent location. Second Mt. Vernon Baptist Church’s vision is to create a safe haven. Love is manifested here. The Holy Spirit changes lives for the Kingdom. The mission is clear. It is to preach, teach and demonstrate the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Stay tuned to see where love takes Second Mt. Vernon Babtist.