Deeply rooted in faith Mount Sinai Baptist Church stands as a testament to community resilience. Mount Sinai Baptist Church has a rich history spanning over a century. It has served the people of God and the community for 117 years.
Mount Sinai Baptist Church has navigated many changes. It has faced struggles, community challenges, political problems, health conditions and internal changes. Yet Mount Sinai continues to thrive.
Mount Sinai Baptist Church has had two locations. They are Ashland Avenue and its present site. The current building has been renovated several times. During these renovations, members worshipped elsewhere. But their support and dedication remained unwavering.
Under Rev. J. R. Butler the church progressed spiritually and financially. Rev. Butler formed a ministerial staff. It included Rev. Elijah Smith, Rev. William Jordon and others. He also ordained six deacons including Lawrence N. Bowman Sr. and Charles Meade.
Mount Sinai became active in the NAACP under Rev. J.R. Butler’s leadership. Following Martin Luther King’s non-violent approach Sinai youth participated in Freedom Bus rides. They engaged in sit-ins and picket lines.
In 1970 Rev. Brown had a vision. He wanted to form a Mass Choir. This vision came to life. All the church choirs united as the “Voices of Sinai”. In 1979 the Voices of Sinai recorded a live album. It was titled “You Better Be Ready”.
During the 1980s Mount Sinai experienced continuous membership growth. Many young people joined. Former members returned.
Rev. Ray Cotton emphasized spiritual growth. His passion was preaching and teaching God’s word. He showed a special love for family and youth.
February 9 2017 was a difficult day. Flames engulfed Mount Sinai Church. Smoke and water damaged the main and lower sanctuary. The entire church needed extensive renovations. The congregation lost their place of worship.
Several churches welcomed Mount Sinai during this time. Ebenezer Baptist, Memorial and New Zion Baptist offered their facilities. The Johnson Square School also provided space. William C. March Funeral Home offered their sanctuary for Sunday services from 2018 to March 2020.
The lower sanctuary was completed first. The congregation began meeting there. However another fire struck in January 2020. It damaged the roof, main sanctuary and minimally affected the Fellowship Hall.
Through all trials Mount Sinai holds onto God’s hand. The membership never gives up on God. They remain committed to their pastor’s vision. Pastor Cotton reminds everyone that they are not perfect. But they are perfectly forgiven.
Mount Sinai Baptist Church stands as a beacon of faith. It symbolizes perseverance and community spirit. Its history is a testament to its enduring strength. The church is in the heart of the people.