Mount Hope United Methodist Church

Tucked away in the heart of Detroit, Mount Hope United Methodist Church has witnessed a remarkable transformation. It stands as a testament to unwavering faith. Mount Hope United Methodist Church’s journey began far from Detroit’s bustling streets. In 1925, a divine message led Joe Kerekes from Detroit to Lansing. He was to share his faith with James Nemeth. Kerekes’s commitment was absolute. When Nemeth asked how long he would stay, Kerekes simply replied, “Until you are saved.” Following his conversion, James Nemeth began holding gatherings in homes across Lansing. He focused on the Hungarian immigrant community. His goal was the salvation of every Hungarian family in the city. Through prayer, fasting, and countless Bible studies, this ambitious goal was achieved. By 1928, the growing congregation, numbering about 80, moved to a rented hall above a store on Cedar Street. A decade later, Pastor Nemeth envisioned a permanent home. He mortgaged his family farm for $1,000. With this, he purchased a lot at the corner of Mt. Hope and Rundle Avenues. The first services were held in the basement. Over time, the church building was completed and still stands at 725 W. Mt. Hope Avenue. The church was officially named Mt. Hope Assembly of God. Sister Elsie Petro became the new pastor, serving for over a decade. Several pastors followed, each contributing to the church’s growth. During Carl Graves’s 12-year tenure, the first daughter church, Calvary Assembly of God, was established in Lansing. In 1976, Glenn Snook became pastor. He spearheaded the move to a larger building at 4415 W. St. Joseph Highway. The church was renamed Mount Hope Assembly of God. After Snook’s retirement, Dave Williams became pastor in 1981. Under his leadership, the church expanded significantly, requiring three Sunday services. This growth led to another relocation, this time to a 43-acre site at the intersection of Creyts Road and Michigan Avenue. The church’s name was changed to Mount Hope Church. Phase 1 of the new building was completed in 1987. Further expansion followed with Phase 2 in 1995. The church added a prayer chapel and expanded facilities for children and youth. In 2003, the Gilead Healing Center opened, followed by the Valley of Blessing in 2010. Mount Hope’s influence extended beyond Lansing. New Mount Hope Churches were established in Michigan, Africa, and Asia. The congregation’s generosity also led to over $40 million in donations to world missions. In 2012, Kevin Berry succeeded Dave Williams as pastor. Berry, a lifelong member of Mount Hope, brought a wealth of experience to the role. Having served as youth pastor and executive team leader, he was well-prepared to lead the church into the future. Today, Mount Hope United Methodist Church thrives in Detroit, carrying forward a legacy of faith and service.