Once a synagogue now a church the story of 2nd Mount Zion of the Apostolic Faith Church is one of Detroit’s evolving communities. This building stands as a testament to faith and change. It reflects the shifts in population and the enduring spirit of Detroiters.
Let’s delve into the story of 2nd Mount Zion of the Apostolic Faith Church. The building first opened in 1928. It was initially Beth David Synagogue. This congregation was formed by Russian immigrants in 1892. They first gathered in a rented space. By 1900 they dedicated their first permanent home. It was located on Adelaide Street.
As Detroit’s auto industry boomed the Jewish population grew. Many came from New York and the East Coast. Beth David expanded. In 1915 they moved to a larger location on Winder Street. By 1920 the Jewish community spread north. Beth David built a new synagogue on Elmhurst Avenue in 1928. This became the center of the community.
But times changed. After World War II many Jewish residents moved to northwest Detroit and Oakland County. African Americans moved into their former homes. Some claim real estate agents fueled racial fears. This led to rapid turnover in the area. B’Nai David the reorganized Beth David purchased land in Southfield in 1954. They moved out of the city in 1958.
New Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church was founded in 1919. The congregation initially met in a storefront. It was located at Leland and Orleans streets. In 1928 they moved to a larger building on Mack and Chene avenues. Shortly after a bomb damaged the church. It was likely a racially motivated attack. The community rallied around the church. But the Detroit Board of Education acquired the site in 1960.
New Mt. Zion then purchased the former B’Nai David Synagogue. They moved into the building on November 13 1960. The new location provided an opportunity. It allowed them to serve a growing African-American community.
The architecture of 2nd Mount Zion of the Apostolic Faith Church reflects its history. The building is Romanesque in style with Neo-Byzantine influences. It features a projecting entrance bay. Two winged lions flank the entrance. Inside the sanctuary has a large nave and a U-shaped balcony. Stained-glass windows illuminate the space.
When New Mt. Zion moved in they preserved the original synagogue architecture. They added a choir stand and a baptismal pool. A medallion of the Tablets of the Law was modified to include a cross. The building stands as a reminder of Detroit’s diverse past.
Today 2nd Mount Zion of the Apostolic Faith Church continues to serve its community. It hosts a range of events. It is a testament to faith resilience and the ever-changing landscape of Detroit.