Mount Ararat Baptist Church

“A church born in a living room?” I ask, a smile playing on my lips as we stand before Mount Ararat Baptist Church. It’s hard to imagine this grand structure, a beacon of faith in Washington D.C., having such humble beginnings. Mount Ararat Baptist Church started its life not in a grand hall, but in the cozy confines of Sister Annie Caldwell’s home back in November 1961. The first pastor, Dr. James Thompson Reeder, guided the fledgling congregation. Under his leadership, Mount Ararat quickly outgrew its initial space. The church blossomed, adding members and expanding its reach within the community. This growth spurred them onward, leading to the purchase of their current location in August 1965. Dr. Reeder shepherded Mount Ararat for over two decades before retiring. Reverend Albert P. Curly then briefly held the reins for a year. In 1994, Dr. Elliot Cuff became the third Senior Pastor. His tenure saw significant developments. The Family Life Center was established. This offered vital resources like economic development programs, after-school assistance, computer training, and more. Dr. Cuff, along with his wife, Minister Virginia Evelyn Cuff, worked tirelessly with volunteers. They provided quality education to inner-city children who otherwise lacked access. The sanctuary itself underwent renovations in August 1996, enhancing the building’s beauty and functionality. After a decade of service, Dr. Cuff moved on. Reverend Steven Eugene Carter, raised, licensed, and ordained within Mount Ararat’s walls, became the fourth Senior Pastor in July 2004. Pastor Carter adopted the motto, “Loving God, Loving People & Impacting the Community.” This resonated deeply. Membership surged, with over 1,500 new members joining the flock. New ministries blossomed to address the evolving needs of the church and the surrounding area. Sunday services expanded to accommodate the growing congregation. Under Pastor Carter’s guidance, the church launched a youth choir. They strengthened ties with Brooklyn Congregations Together. They developed young adult ministries and engaged with local officials. They implemented a revised GED program and even established a Touro College campus on-site. A community karate program for youth was introduced, further solidifying the church’s commitment to its community. A two-year renovation campaign, known as Renovation 24, aimed to transform the church. The vision included a comfortable overflow room, screens for better viewing, handicap accessibility, educational classrooms, a multi-purpose stage, and more. All this to foster a warm and welcoming environment for worship and fellowship.