Mount Zion Baptist Church

A beacon of faith, Mount Zion Baptist Church has stood in Denison, Texas, for over a century. Its story begins in June 1884, when Rev. Griffin founded Mount Zion with a small but dedicated group. His leadership provided the foundation for the church’s enduring legacy. Following Rev. Griffin, several pastors led Mount Zion through periods of both growth and challenge. Rev. Judison White oversaw steady growth for two years, succeeded by Rev. G.W. Smith for another two. The church faced trials and discouragement, but pastors like Rev. J.H. Ivory persevered. In 1908, Rev. J.W. Carter took the helm of Mount Zion Baptist Church. He found a congregation of fewer than twenty-five members. During his remarkable thirty-eight-year tenure, the church saw incredible progress. Three buildings were constructed and paid for under his guidance, two frame structures and a notable brick building valued at $150,000. Rev. Carter’s influence transformed Mount Zion into a prominent church in the Baptist community, recognized at district, state, and national levels. His dedication contributed to the church’s motto, “85 Years of Continued Progress.” Following Rev. Carter’s passing, Rev. J.C. Huey from Texarkana led Mount Zion Baptist Church for seven years. Rev. R.H. Howard then oversaw the redecoration of the church’s interior. A short pastoral term by Rev. S.J. Vincent from St. Louis preceded a tumultuous period under Rev. S.H. Mitchell. Discord within the congregation was compounded by a devastating fire in 1957 that destroyed the three-story brick building. The membership dwindled from 300 to half its size. Despite the setback, the spirit of Mount Zion Baptist Church persevered. The congregation worshipped temporarily at the Colored Community Center on Armstrong Avenue. Rev. P.B. Hillary served as supply pastor until Rev. Marshall E. Hodge accepted the call. New life was breathed into the church as it grew rapidly under Rev. Hodge’s leadership. A new church was built on the original Walker Street site, dedicated in May 1960 by Rev. Rhett James. In 1963, Rev. Z.R. Figures, recommended by Moderator McKnight, took on the challenge of leading Mount Zion Baptist Church despite its financial struggles. His selfless dedication and spiritual guidance revitalized the congregation. The story continues with Rev. H.L. Alexander, Sr. in 1969, who led the church through further improvements and financial stability. Despite setbacks with Rev. Sammy Walker’s short, unsuccessful tenure, Mount Zion continued to progress. Rev. Manuel Gardner, dedicated to the community, made significant improvements before leaving for Greenville, Texas. Rev. C.R. McDuffy then led Mount Zion Baptist Church for nearly a decade of prosperity and growth. Rev. W.L. Venters took over in 1990, initially fostering growth, but the congregation later faced financial difficulties. His resignation in 1997 led to the arrival of Rev. K.W. King, who brought positive financial change, increased youth involvement, and established the church’s online presence. His motto, “We Can Begin Again,” resonated with Mount Zion’s resilience. After Rev. King’s departure in 2013, Associate Pastor Rev. Alonzo McLean stepped up before resigning in 2017. Finally, Rev. James R. A. Wilson and his wife, Minister Camille Phelps-Wilson, accepted the call to lead Mount Zion Baptist Church. Their leadership continues to guide this historic congregation.