Messiah Missionary Baptist Church of Detroit

Can you imagine a church born in a garage? That’s the humble origin of Messiah Missionary Baptist Church of Detroit. In 1923, four individuals ignited a spark of faith in a rented Detroit garage. This small group, led by Rev. Homer Tombs, Eliza Bowman, Jane Clark, and E.L. Solomon, laid the foundation for what would become a cornerstone of Detroit’s spiritual landscape. Messiah Missionary Baptist Church quickly outgrew its initial space. In 1929, the congregation purchased property on St. Aubin at Adele Street. This marked a significant step in the church’s growth and its commitment to the community. The church continued to flourish, joining the Michigan Baptist District Association and the Wolverine Baptist State Convention in 1930. Messiah Missionary Baptist Church saw several pastors guide its flock in its early years. Rev. Homer Tombs served from 1923-1927, followed by Rev. J.L. Lenyoun from 1927-1934 and Rev. C.C. Croff in 1935. A period of transformative growth began in 1936 with the arrival of Rev. W.G. Scott. Under his leadership, the church’s membership swelled to over 1500. This necessitated another move, and in 1951, the church found a new home on Humboldt Street. Rev. Scott left an indelible mark on Messiah Missionary Baptist Church. He established the Vacation Bible School and affiliated the church with the National Baptist Convention. His ministry continued until his passing in 1955. Rev. Theodore Cornelius Simmons took the helm in 1956. His 32-year tenure saw remarkable growth, both in membership and attendance. This growth led to the purchase of the church’s current location at 8100 West Seven Mile Road in 1970. Remarkably, the mortgage was paid off in under seven years. The mortgage burning service in 1977 was a testament to the dedication of the congregation. Rev. Simmons’s leadership also saw the establishment of numerous auxiliaries. He regularly preached to over 1,100 members and visitors. The church’s story continued with Rev. William Revely, elected in 1989. He led the congregation in honoring Rev. T.C. Simmons with a “Say Thanks” tribute in 1990, naming him Pastor Emeritus. Messiah Missionary Baptist Church has weathered storms. The church faced a period of internal disharmony and dissension, leading to the temporary closure of its doors in 1998. Services were held off-site before the congregation returned to 8100 West Seven Mile Road. A new chapter began in 2000 with the arrival of Rev. Orville K. Littlejohn. His leadership ushered in a period of recovery and renewed focus on evangelism, education, edification, and exhortation. Today, Messiah Missionary Baptist Church thrives with over 30 active ministries serving both its members and the Detroit community. From a humble garage to a beacon of faith on West Seven Mile Road, Messiah Missionary Baptist Church stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and community in Detroit.