“The Little Church On The Hill, Where Everybody Is Somebody.” That’s how Mount Zion C.M.E. Church describes itself. This church has a rich history in the Bronx. Its story is one of faith and community.
In the late 1950s Bishop Annie Stewart and her husband Reverend C. A. Stewart founded Mt. Zion Church. Their first location was on 124th Street. The initial membership comprised eight devoted individuals. They purchased a former Jewish Synagogue at 1148 Elder Avenue. The synagogue had been closed for over 20 years.
In 1959 Mount Zion relocated to its current address on Elder Avenue. It officially became part of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Connection in 1962. Bishop H. C. Bunton presided over the connection. Reverend M. C. McBeth was the Presiding Elder.
Reverend Stewart served as Pastor until 1965. Reverend W. J. Dix briefly took over from 1965 to 1966. In August 1966 Reverend Willie B. McLeod began a successful 13-year tenure. In 1979 Bishop Oree Broomfield, Sr. appointed him Presiding Elder. Then Reverend Robert Lewis served from 1979 to 1980. He was known for his devotion and musical talent.
Reverend Leroy Peay led the church from 1980 to 1982. He was a teacher, preacher, and prophet. Under his guidance the church experienced spiritual growth.
In 1982 Reverend John L. Sloan became pastor. He served faithfully until his passing. Presiding Elder Frank Fuller filled in until April 1984.
Reverend Edward Moultrie, Sr. was appointed in 1984. He led Mount Zion for 16 years. During his leadership the church experienced significant growth. The church acquired a van, parking lot, new pews, and updated facilities.
Reverend Moultrie mentored many local preachers. Over thirteen went on to pastor their own churches. In 2000 Reverend Moultrie was transferred to Sidney Park C.M.E. Church in South Carolina.
Reverend Theresa G. Oliver became the eighth pastor of Mount Zion C.M.E. Church in 2000. It was her home church. In 2001 she earned a Doctor of Ministry degree. Her project focused on developing a health ministry. The goal was to improve the health of African-Americans.
Under Dr. Oliver’s leadership Mount Zion underwent extensive renovations. The roof, skylight, plumbing, and other areas were improved. Reverend Oliver retired in July 2021.
In July 2021 Reverend Glen Lacey became the pastor. He guided the church through the COVID-19 pandemic. He introduced video ministry.
Mount Zion has developed new ministries to support youth, adults, and seniors. The church fosters a spirit of love and fellowship. Remember Mount Zion C.M.E. Church. It is a place where everyone is valued. It’s a testament to faith. It is a pillar of the community in the Bronx.