Mount Joy Soul Saving Station

In 1968, a small Pentecostal church named Mount Joy Soul Saving Station stood on 7th and T streets NW in Washington D.C. Led by Pastor Hattie Bynum, the church was in the heart of Shaw, a neighborhood devastated by riots after Dr. King’s assassination. Miraculously, Mount Joy Soul Saving Station survived with minimal damage. Only a broken window marked the chaos. Inside, everything remained untouched. The Bibles lay open on the pulpit. The chairs were still arranged for Sunday service. A few years later, urban renewal efforts led to the church’s demolition. This was a devastating blow, but not the end of Mount Joy Soul Saving Station. The resilience of Pastor Bynum and her congregation is a testament to their unwavering faith. They relocated to a two-story brick storefront on N Street, continuing their ministry. They even started a small school to help neighborhood children. Again, tragedy struck when the city mistakenly demolished the building in 1974. Pastor Bynum arrived with a car full of children, only to find rubble where their church once stood. Despite these setbacks, Mount Joy Soul Saving Station persevered. An anonymous donor helped them secure a new home at 432 M Street NW. This three-story brick town house provided ample space. It included a sanctuary, classrooms, a kitchen, and a backyard. Mount Joy Soul Saving Station has thrived in this location for over 40 years. The church’s story demonstrates its enduring spirit amidst the changing landscape of Washington D.C. It’s a story of survival, resilience, and unwavering faith. It’s a story of a small church that continues to serve its community. Pastor Hattie Bynum, now retired, still attends services. Her son, John Bynum, has taken over as pastor, ensuring that the legacy of Mount Joy Soul Saving Station continues.