Did you know that Mount Moriah Baptist Church started from humble beginnings? It all began with a vision to empower communities through faith.
Mount Moriah Baptist Church has a rich history deeply rooted in Atlanta. It stands as a testament to faith, resilience, and community empowerment. Let’s step back in time.
In 1913, a group branched out from Providence Baptist Church. They gathered at Barton Hall and became known as Little Rock Baptist Church. They met at the junction of Humphries and Greensferry Avenues. Reverend W.H. Brown was their leader.
In April 1915, the church became Mount Moriah Baptist Church. Reverend W. H. Brown became its first pastor. Two years later, they bought their first building. It was the old Warren M. E. Church. It cost them $2,000. It stood at the corner of Humphries and Chapel Streets. In January 1918, the congregation marched to their new home. By June of that year, 825 new members had joined. Sadly, Reverend W. H. Brown passed away on June 23.
Reverend T.T. Gholston became Mount Moriah’s second pastor in September 1918. During his time, the church paid off a $1,200 note. They added 2,150 new members. Rev. Gholston resigned in February 1925.
Reverend C. H. Holland became the third pastor in 1926. Under his leadership, Mount Moriah sold its old location. They held services at Warren M.E. Church. This was at Greensferry Avenue and Mildred Street. The church waited to move to its present location. It is now 200 Joseph E. Lowery Boulevard, SW. The church became known as Mount Moriah Institutional Baptist Church. By May 1940, they had saved 5,048 souls.
In 1947, Reverend Doctor R. Julian Smith was called to pastor. He had studied at several colleges. By 1953, 1,487 new members had joined. The church baptized 509 people. They licensed three ministers and ordained two. They also married 117 couples. The church expanded and renovated its facilities. They added an education wing and remodeled the auditorium. A church office was opened.
From 1954 to 1961, the church grew. It established a self-auditing system, which increased income. They formed junior choirs and prayer meetings. A nursery and elementary school were organized. Dr. Smith resigned due to declining health.
Reverend Howard William Creecy, Sr. became the fifth pastor in 1962. He was a friend of the Civil Rights Movement. Mount Moriah often hosted movement meetings. Under his leadership, 1,300 individuals joined the church. The church underwent a $200,000 renovation. They purchased property for parking. Outreach ministries were established. Reverend Creecy resigned in 1991.
In April 1992, Reverend Dr. Orlando K. Winters, Sr. became the sixth pastor. He instituted new worship services and ministries. These included the Praise Team and IMPACT.
In February 2013, Reverend Eric D. Hurst became the seventh pastor. Since his arrival, over 300 people have joined. Pastor Hurst revamped the music ministry. He added new ministries. He also led capital improvements including a website and sanctuary renovations.
Mount Moriah Baptist Church stands as a beacon. It welcomes all who seek to know God. It continues its mission of love, justice, and inclusivity. It enriches the community. Mount Moriah moves forward.