“Unlike most churches, the Metropolitan Baptist Church began with a merger.” Intriguing isn’t it? Today we stand before the Metropolitan Baptist Church a beacon of faith and community in the heart of New York City.
Its story began in 1912. Two congregations, Zion Baptist Church and Mercy Seat Baptist Church, decided to unite. They dropped both names. Trustee Robert L. Hill suggested Metropolitan Baptist Church. The new church first met at the Subway Church.
Leading the merged congregation was the Reverend N.S. Epps. He served as pastor until 1914. The church then sought a new leader. They called upon Dr. W.W. Brown of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Pittsburgh.
Reverend Epps traveled to Pittsburgh. He extended the invitation to Dr. Brown. Dr. Brown accepted. But he had one condition. Metropolitan Baptist Church had to pay all outstanding debts from both merging churches. The debt totaled $3,750.00. It was paid within Dr. Brown’s first year.
Dr. Brown arrived at the Subway Church. The building had been lost to foreclosure. The New York City Baptist Mission bought it. The Mission rented the space for a dollar per year. This was likely because Metropolitan Baptist Church agreed to pay the debts of the former churches.
Dr. Brown delivered his first sermon in December 1914. His text was “In the name of the Lord, we lift up our banner in Harlem”. Dr. Brown was a unique and powerful preacher. People flocked to hear him.
The growing congregation needed more space. Dr. Brown secured the Palace Casino. It was located at 135th Street and Madison Avenue. The church used it for Sunday services at $125 per month. Weekly services remained at the Subway Church.
Under Dr. Brown’s leadership the Metropolitan Baptist Church thrived. It became a spiritual and community hub. The church then bought five lots on 138th Street. They built a tabernacle there for $15,000. That site later became Abyssinian Baptist Church.
Metropolitan worshipped at the Tabernacle for over four years. They then secured their current building. The cost was $87,000. Dr. Brown also co-founded the Baptist Negro Educational Center. He brought the Baptist Ministers Conference to the Metropolitan Baptist Church.
In 1929 the church celebrated its 17th anniversary. They held a mortgage burning ceremony. The church was finally debt-free. This became a tradition for future pastors of Metropolitan.
Dr. Abner Brown succeeded his father. He maintained the church’s growth and community involvement. The church hosted various youth groups and activities.
Reverend Dr. Connie S. Stamps became pastor in 1951. He was a dynamic preacher and radio evangelist. His radio ministry broadened the church’s reach. Reverend Stamps played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement.
Reverend Dr. John A. Smith pastored from 1979 to 1998. The Metropolitan Baptist Church became a Triple Landmark. It earned federal, state, and local landmark status. Reverend Smith established a building fund. He raised money for maintenance and repairs. His ministry attracted tourists internationally.
In 2000 Reverend Bobbie McDaniel became the fifth pastor. Under his guidance, the church expanded its ministries. These included food, clothing and senior services. Structural improvements were made to the building.
Today the Metropolitan Baptist Church continues to serve. It offers spiritual guidance and community support. It stands as a testament to faith unity and service. Its rich history echoes through its walls a story of resilience and devotion. As you leave today remember the Metropolitan Baptist Church. Remember its legacy of faith, community and unwavering service to Harlem.