Metropolitan Church of God

Can you imagine a church’s journey spanning over a century? Here at the Metropolitan Church of God, that journey unfolds. The Metropolitan Church of God’s story begins in 1884 with the Church of God Reformation Movement’s arrival in Detroit. Around 1900, T.J. Cox led the effort to establish a congregation. They initially met in a house on Mack Avenue. Another minister, Leroy Sheldon, was also active in Detroit during this time. The Church of God in Detroit stands among the first ten churches organized in the city. Remarkably, it holds the distinction of being Detroit’s first interracial church. Around 1912, Christiana Janes became the pastor. Under Janes’ leadership, the interracial congregation purchased land and built a two-story building at Beniteau and Goethe. They even lived on the building’s second floor. This marked a significant moment, an interracial Church of God congregation with Black leadership and a predominantly white membership. In 1914, racial tensions led to a split. The African American members established a separate church in 1915. The Metropolitan Church of God emerged from this lineage, incorporating in 1954. James Earl Massey served as pastor until 1976. During his tenure, the church hosted “The Metropolitan Bible Hour” radio broadcast. The congregation initially met at Danish Brotherhood Hall on W. Forest near Twelfth Street. By 1955, they purchased a facility on Joy Road for $82,000. The debt was paid off, and the mortgage burned in 1964. They purchased their current building at 13400 Schaefer in 1971. Robert O. Dulin, Jr. became pastor in 1976 and served until 2008. Dulin’s leadership navigated both conflict and spiritual growth. The church restructured its administration, grew in numbers, increased its budget, and even purchased a van for a Lebanese orphanage. Dulin championed family life and community development. He secured grants for HIV/AIDS awareness and a Community Computer Learning Center. The church also benefited from dedicated lay leaders and staff, including ministers of music and associate pastors. Kevin W. Earley became pastor in 2009. Under Earley, the Metropolitan Church of God continues its focus on worship, Bible study, and fulfilling the Great Commission. They offer programs like Food for Families, operate a Head Start program and a credit union, and host events like “Parent’s Night Out.” The Education Institute provides leadership development and Christian education. The church also maintains a community park adjacent to the building. The Metropolitan Church of God stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith, community, and service in Detroit. It has witnessed and overcome challenges, growing and evolving over the years.