Devotion echoes through the history of Mount Sinai Baptist Church. This church has served the people of God and the community for 117 years. Mount Sinai Baptist Church has survived many challenges. These include changes within the church itself. Political problems and health conditions also impacted the church.
Mount Sinai has had two locations. One was on Ashland Avenue. The present location has undergone several renovations. During these times, members worshipped in other locations. The membership has remained supportive. They are dedicated to the church and its pastors.
From 1904 to 1914, under Rev. J. R. Butler, the church moved forward. This progress was both spiritual and financial. Rev. Butler formed a ministerial staff. It included several reverends. He also ordained six deacons.
Under Rev. J.R. Butler, Mount Sinai became active members of the NAACP. The pastor followed Martin Luther King’s non-violent approach. Many Sinai youth participated in Freedom Bus rides. They also joined Sit-ins and Picket lines.
One of Rev. Brown’s visions was to form a Mass Choir. This happened in 1970. He combined all the church choirs. It became the Mass Choir named the “Voices of Sinai”. In 1979, the Voices of Sinai recorded a live album. It was entitled, “You Better Be Ready”.
From 1981 to 1991, membership continuously grew. Many young people joined. Former members also returned.
Rev. Ray Cotton came with a vision. It was for Mount Sinai’s spiritual growth. His passion was preaching and teaching God’s words. He also showed a special love for family and the youth.
A devastating event occurred on February 9, 2017. Flames tore through the Mount Sinai Church house. The fire caused smoke and water damage. This affected the main and lower sanctuary of the church. The entire church needed mass renovations. The congregation was left without a place to worship.
Several churches welcomed Mount Sinai to hold services at their facilities. These included Ebenezer Baptist, Memorial, and New Zion Baptist. Johnson Square School also offered space. The church was grateful for the welcome.
William C. March Funeral Home provided their Sanctuary. Mount Sinai held Sunday services there. This arrangement lasted from 2018 until March of 2020.
The lower sanctuary or fellowship hall was completed. The church began meeting there. Repairs to the main sanctuary were still underway. Another fire occurred on the roof of the building in January 2020. It caused damage to the roof, house, and main sanctuary. The lower Fellowship Hall had minimal damage.
Mount Sinai continues to embrace their beliefs. They believe that trials may come. But they will continue to hold on to God’s hand.
The membership will never give up on God. They also won’t give up on their pastor’s vision for the church. Pastor Cotton reminds everyone. They are not perfect. But they are perfectly forgiven. Mount Sinai Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith and resilience. It is truly a church in the heart of the people.