Question: What makes Mt. Rona Missionary Baptist Church a cornerstone of faith in this community? Mt. Rona Missionary Baptist Church stands proudly. It is located on the corner of 13th and Monroe Streets. Its story is one of community and spiritual evolution.
Mt. Rona Missionary Baptist Church has a fascinating history. The building itself dates back to 1917. Originally, it housed the First Reformed Church. This earlier congregation was established in 1867. They first worshiped in a small wooden structure. It was located at 6th and N Streets.
In 1891, that building was replaced. A dedication ceremony was held in German. Later, the congregation decided to move. Ground broke on the 13th and Monroe location in June 1917. The projected cost was $38000. Charles W. Bolton & Sons designed it. W.A. Kimmel served as the local contractor.
Interestingly, Mt. Rona Missionary Baptist Church displays two cornerstones. One is the original from the First Reformed Church. The other dates to 1980. This newer stone marks when Mt. Rona’s current congregation arrived. This is a common practice in Washington D.C. It reflects the ongoing story of churches adapting and evolving.
Mt. Rona Missionary Baptist Church has roots that go back to 1948. At that time, it was named Comer Memorial Baptist Church. Rev. Rufus I. Thomas became the pastor. The small church was located on 15th Street. It was between C and D Streets SE. Rev. Thomas’s wife played for the choirs.
Over time, Comer Memorial Baptist Church moved several times. In the early 1950s, they found a home at 1816 5th St NW. Later, in 1961, they moved again. This time, they settled at 432 M St NW. This was the former location of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church.
A significant change occurred in March 1968. Comer Memorial was renamed Mt. Rona Missionary Baptist Church. In September 1974, the congregation marched to their new home. It was located at 3431 13th St NW. Pastor R.I. Thomas led this move. Annie M. Rollins was the Building Fund Chairperson.
Today, Mt. Rona Missionary Baptist Church continues its mission. Pastor C. A. Thompson leads the congregation. Mt. Rona is known as a ministry-minded church. They seek to meet the needs of the whole person. Their goal is clear. It is to bring souls to God. They want to empower each person. They also want to help them fulfill their God-given purpose.
Mt. Rona offers various services. These include Sunday worship, Sunday School, and Bible study. They also have prayer service. These services aim to provide spiritual guidance. They also aim to foster a strong community. Mt. Rona Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith. It is a beacon. It is a place where everyone is somebody. Above all, Jesus is Lord.