Mount Carmel Ridge Missionary Baptist Church

Gazing at Mount Carmel Ridge Missionary Baptist Church, one might hear whispers of resilience. This church, nestled in Chicago, has weathered storms both literal and figurative. Its story begins in 1861. It started as a humble bush shelter known as Harvey’s Chapel. The church was founded by Miles Harvey and Charles Capps. Mount Carmel Ridge Missionary Baptist Church later adopted its present name under the leadership of its first pastor, Reverend Charles Hodges. He oversaw the construction of the first building. The church’s journey continued with a succession of pastors. Each leader left their mark on Mount Carmel Ridge Missionary Baptist Church. Reverend I. B. Roach served briefly before moving to Riddicks Grove. Reverend E. H. Griffin guided the congregation for 15 years. In 1903, Reverend H. H. Norman began his 13-year tenure. He spearheaded the construction of the current building. Reverend G. D. Griffin followed, serving for two years. Then came Reverend A. D. Moore, whose leadership spanned 15 years. Reverend W. A. Cobb’s nine-year service included the installation of the church bell. Reverend S. S. Lane oversaw the laying of the cornerstone during his seven years. Reverend W. P. Jones served for four years. Then Reverend U. G. Moye added restrooms and made other improvements during his four-year term. Reverend W. J. Moore’s 17 years brought a bricked exterior and plastered interior walls. Reverend J. E. Griffin, who served four years, acquired a new pulpit and communion sets. Under Reverend W. H. Davis’s 17-year leadership, the church received a Hammond organ, new HVAC units, hardwood floors, carpet, pews, and a furnace room. Reverend D. L. White added a fellowship hall, pastor’s study, and other amenities. He also paved the parking lot and renovated the baptistry. Reverend E. J. Lillard acquired five acres of land, a filing cabinet, and a typewriter during his two years. Reverend Linwood Boone, serving over six years, purchased drums, a sound lectern, and a desk. Reverend William J. Smith oversaw renovations to the pastor’s study, new stained glass windows, and the purchase of new Bibles and hymnals. A fire ravaged the church structure in 2010. But the congregation, under Reverend Michael A. Barclift, remained steadfast in their faith and rebuilt. Mount Carmel Ridge Missionary Baptist Church has also nurtured daughter churches, Lambs Grove and Ramoth Gilead. These congregations formed to accommodate members who had difficulty traveling to the main church. Mount Carmel Ridge Missionary Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith. It continues to serve its community.