In 1938 a small group gathered. They formed Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church. Reverend B. T. Grisby led them. They met in a small building on 41st and Hooper Street. Their tiny location was filled with joy. The congregation grew. Word spread about their faith. Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church moved to a larger building. This was at 32nd and Morgan Streets. Reverend Richard White became their new pastor.
In 1940 a choir formed. Sister Lonnie Loggins spearheaded this effort. Her daughter Sister Ottie Loggins played piano. Brother James Rials Sr. served as president. This marked a significant moment in the church’s history. The Senior Usher Board also organized that year. Brother Rials led this board too. Pastor White oversaw this development. Deacon Jesse W Loggins was later ordained as a minister. He became pastor after Pastor White left. Sister Lonnie Loggins became church secretary. Deacon Richard Berry became church treasurer.
Mount Olive continued to grow. They needed more space. They bought property at 21st and Naomi Streets. They also acquired property at 43rd and Compton Avenue. Pastor Loggins chose the 43rd Street location. In 1949 a youth choir started. Brother James Rials Sr. formed it. Ten youngsters aged 5 to 11 joined. Sister Ottie Rials played piano. Deacon Berry resigned as treasurer in 1951. Deacon Leon Woods replaced him. Sister Loggins resigned as secretary in 1952. Sister Hazel F. Davis succeeded her. That same year Pastor Loggins ordained three new deacons. These were Robert Davis JT Ellis and Charlie Wade.
Additions were made to the church building. These included a pastor’s study a restroom and a choir room. Pastor Loggins did much of the work himself. Reverend T. T. Turner and Deacon Robert J. Davis helped him. Sadly Pastor Loggins fell ill in 1953. Reverend James Crudup served as pastor during his illness. Pastor Loggins passed away in August 1953. Reverend Crudup continued until 1954. Reverend H.P. Parker became the new pastor that year. Sister Loggins resigned as president of General Missions. Sister Claudia Parker took over. The mission grew under Sister Parker’s leadership. It expanded from two to eight circles including a Sunshine Band.
In 1957 the church was remodeled. A basement kitchen dining area and more seating were added. The church bought the lot next door in 1966. This cost $6000. In 1968 they sold their property on 21st and Naomi Streets. This sale netted them another $6000. By 1974 the church was again outgrowing its space. Deacon Jasper Brown started a building fund. A paper drive and special offerings helped. In 1977 another piece of property was bought. This was next to the parking lot. It cost $13500. Brother Prince Dixon’s radio show led to a significant donation. Mr. William Rempal donated property worth $115000. This included two stores and parking lots. The property was sold in 1980. The money went into the building fund.
Fundraising continued. Musicals and banquets helped. Auxiliaries also contributed. By November 1981 construction began on the new church. Mount Olive temporarily worshipped at Mercy Seat Missionary Baptist Church. This was at 246 East 53rd Street. Reverend Alfonso Beard was the pastor there. In June 1982 Mount Olive moved into their new church. Reverend H.P. Parker remained pastor until his retirement in 1984. Reverend Lowell D. Ford was elected pastor in 1985. That year two Mount Olive ministers were ordained. These were Reverend J.C. Johnson and Reverend Ronald Brown. Reverend Leon Arterberry also joined the staff. Sister Hazel F Davis resigned as church clerk in 1986 after 34 years. Sister Dorothy Moore replaced her. The cornerstone was laid in 1987. It was dedicated to Jesus Christ. It honored founders and pioneers.
Mount Olive continued to grow and adapt. New programs and ministries emerged. The church has remained a vital part of the Los Angeles community. It is a testament to faith perseverance and community spirit. Its story continues to unfold. The legacy of Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church is one of enduring faith and service. It is a story of growth adaptation and unwavering dedication.