How about a story of faith built from the ground up right here at New True Vine Baptist Church? This church stands as a testament to community spirit. It also shows unwavering dedication.
New True Vine Baptist Church is a beacon of hope in Detroit. It has a rich history and continues to serve its community.
Let’s step back to September 15th, 1944. A small group gathered in Brother Eugene and Sister Esther Adams’ home. They included Brother Neil Wyatt, Brother Jaeul Brady, Brother Sam Phillip, Sister Viney Phillips, and Victoria Reed. They sought to organize a new church. This was the humble beginning of True Vine Missionary Baptist Church.
Reverend W. L. Humphrey led a community revival in Barrett Station. The group asked Rev. Humphrey to be their leader. He accepted. They began holding services in Brother Neil Wyatt’s home on Locust Street. They later moved to Arcadian Street and Lynchburg Road. They even used tents for their services.
The congregation envisioned a permanent structure. Two parcels of land were purchased at the corner of 404 Oak Street and 410 Locust Street from J. L. Tibbet. Don Lang was an aspiring attorney from Highlands. He prepared all the legal documents. Lang also donated the first one hundred dollars toward the land. Mr. Tibbet donated the lumber. This was for the first permanent structure built at 404 Oak Street.
Reverend Humphrey assembled the first board of officers. These dedicated men included Bro. N. Wyatt, Bro. L. Adams, and Bro. Richmond Phillips Sr. Also included were Bro. Earlest Fontenot, Bro. Daniel Smart, Bro. Willie Beverly, Bro. S. Phillips, and Bro. Daly Tatmon. Reverend Humphrey’s theme may have been Matthew 16:18. “Upon this rock, I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” He remained pastor until his death in 1967.
Many under-shepherds served over the years. They were men of God known and loved by many. Reverend Willie W. Washington served for many years. His health eventually failed. He and his deacons constructed the old edifice. It now serves as the fellowship hall. Under-shepherds following Pastor Washington encouraged the church. They encouraged the church to continue as kingdom builders. Reflecting on Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” God added to the flock under their leadership.
Pastors included Reverends George Sims, Kernis Arvie, and M. Keith Cooksey. Cooksey had a vision to build the current edifice. It was dedicated to the Lord in 2003. Tyrone Sylvester also served. The current Pastor is Christopher Sean Carter Sr. His 2020 Theme was “Purpose”. He has had many visions for the church. One favorite was “Vision to Victory” based on 1 Corinthians 15:57. “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!”
Current Ministers and Deacons include Assistant Pastor Delando Williams Sr. Pastor Willie Edwards, Minister Roy Harrison, and Minister Joseph Constatine also serve. Deacons Richard Fontenot, Arthur Jack, Gary Bundage, Karl Bass, and Eddie Blacknell contribute. Missionary Mary Hebert is a source of knowledge and wisdom. New True Vine Baptist Church is where God’s Word is expounded. His name is exalted. His love is exemplified.
Today, New True Vine Baptist Church continues its mission. It serves as a spiritual home for many in Detroit. Remember the story of its humble beginnings. Consider the unwavering faith that built this church. It stands as a symbol of hope.