“Surely the Lord is in this Place.” That was the theme when Mount Zion Baptist Church celebrated its 100th anniversary. Now, let’s delve into the remarkable history of this church.
Mount Zion Baptist Church has a long and inspiring story. Its roots trace back to 1878. Reverend John Frederick Doescher was called to New Orleans to do missionary work among Black people. He established a Lutheran Sunday School on April 7 1878. It was in a building known as “Old Sailors’ Home”. This humble start led to the creation of Mount Zion Lutheran Church. It became the first Black Lutheran Church in the Crescent City.
During Reverend Doescher’s absence teacher H.L. Hutten took charge. He was assisted by dedicated members of Zion Lutheran Church. When Reverend Doescher returned he found the Sunday School flourishing. On January 6 1879 Mount Zion’s Day School opened. Its first enrollment was 120 pupils.
In December 1882 Mount Zion Church and School moved. They relocated from the “Old Sailors’ Home” to an old church building. It was at the corner of Thalia and Franklin Streets. From that time on, the work of the Lord began to prosper.
Over the years Mount Zion has had many dedicated leaders. Reverend Edward W. Kuss erected a new church building on the old site. Reverend Gotthilf M. Kramer served faithfully. Reverend Oscar W. Luecke served from 1925 to 1950. His passion for winning souls endeared him to the members. Miss Elsie Gilbert taught for 43 years. She began in 1924 and continued until the school closed in 1967.
Mount Zion’s highest enrollment was 336 in 1940-41. The church operated on a junior high school level for ten years. Graduates achieved highly in senior high schools.
In September 1965 Hurricane Betsy destroyed the church and school. Despite difficulties the Christian Day School continued until 1967. The congregation worshipped at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Construction on the present church began in July 1968. Dedication Services were held on February 23 1969.
Mount Zion became self-supporting in 1970. In August 2005 Hurricane Katrina caused flood damages. Repairs were done quickly through dedicated volunteers. Mount Zion reopened in November 2005.
Mount Zion celebrated its 130th anniversary in 2008. It celebrated 135 years of service in 2013. In 2018 Mount Zion celebrated 140 years. The theme reminded everyone that God will never leave you.
Through many challenges Mount Zion continues to serve. It is a beacon of light in Central City New Orleans. Mount Zion Lutheran Congregation looks forward to carrying on God’s work. It aims to save souls and defend the pure doctrine of His Holy Word.