Here stands New Mount Moriah International Church a testament to faith and architectural history. This Detroit church has a fascinating past. It began as Trinity United Methodist Church in Highland Park. The building is located at 13100 Woodward Avenue.
Trinity United Methodist Church was built in 1922. It served as a mission church for the Cass United Methodist Church of Detroit. The aim was to serve members in Highland Park. They lived too far from the main church.
Architect George D. Mason designed the church in the Gothic Revival style. The gray limestone structure measures 125 feet by 110 feet. Its main facade features a gabled two story entrance pavilion. A recessed entrance is located between a plain extension. A crenelated tower with belfry stands tall.
Look to the side to see a shallow gabled transept. It has a large window. There is also a projecting entrance between the church and attached chapel. The church’s design relies on the contrast between smooth limestone cladding and sparing Gothic carving.
Trinity United Methodist Church dedicated its building on October 5 1923. It served as a Methodist church until 1978. In the 1950s, the church even had a mission for Japanese people.
In 1979, New Mt. Moriah Baptist Church moved into the building. New Mt. Moriah was established in 1952. As of 2021, the church remained in the building. Rev. Eddie Cooper Jr. served as pastor with First Lady Carlethia Cooper.
The National Register of Historic Places listed the church in 1982. It recognized the building’s architectural significance. It stands as a well preserved example of Neo Gothic church architecture.
Reverend Kenneth James Flowers became pastor of Greater New Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church in Detroit in July 1995. He was born in Detroit. He accepted Christ at the age of eight.
Under his leadership, the Mt. Moriah Community Development Corporation was started. It works to empower and renovate the community. Greater New Mt. Moriah made history on October 27 1995. Reverend Flowers preached at Temple Beth El in West Bloomfield.
Today New Mount Moriah International Church continues to be a beacon of faith. It serves its community. Its walls echo with history and hope. It stands as a testament to Detroit’s enduring spirit.