“Called to a greater work.” This phrase encapsulates the spirit behind New Mount Olivet Apostolic Church. This church has a story rooted in faith and community. We stand before a place born from humble beginnings. It grew into a beacon of hope.
In 1957, Elder Walter Izler, a man of deep conviction, migrated from South Carolina to Washington D.C. He felt a calling beyond his service at the Tried Stone Apostolic Church. With his wife, Manerva, and their children, Elder Izler embarked on a mission. He established the Holy Mount Olivet Apostolic Church of Christ.
The church started small. Founding members included Deacon Leon James and family. Others were Deacon Daniel Bynum and family, Mother Kilcock, Deacon Hickman, and Deacon Douglas Bynum and family. They first gathered at a building on 11th Street SE.
The early days were marked by challenges. The District Government purchased their initial location for new construction. But the congregation’s spirit remained unbroken. They found a new home at 1300 Rhode Island Avenue NW. At this location the church settled in. It became a place of worship for many years.
Under Elder Izler’s guidance, the church flourished. As membership increased, the need for a larger space became apparent. The church acquired a building at 1418 New Jersey Avenue NW. Elder Izler’s health began to decline in 1980. He sought assistance from Elder Hopeton W. Mair, Sr. from the First United Church of Jesus Christ.
In 1981, Elder Mair, Sr. assumed leadership of Holy Mount Olivet Apostolic Church. Prior to this, Elder Mair had established Christian Workers Incorporated. This organization had a weekly broadcast on WFAX. The church officers decided to join CWI in 1981. Elder Mair, Sr. was installed as the new Pastor of Holy Mount Olivet Apostolic Church.
Under Elder Mair’s leadership, the church expanded its ministries. The Outreach Ministry grew significantly. It included a clothing closet and a food bank. There was also a prison ministry and a refuge center. The church provided hot meals for the homeless. They re-established the weekly broadcast. It was called “Operating From An Area Of Strength” on WYCB.
The growing congregation needed more space. In November 1992, the church found a new location. On May 2, 1993, the new edifice at 5908 Addison Road, Seat Pleasant, Maryland, was dedicated. The name changed to New Mt. Olivet Apostolic Church.
The church’s mission remains steadfast. It aims to propagate the gospel of Jesus Christ. This is achieved through preaching, teaching, and repentance. Baptism in Jesus’ name and the infilling of the Holy Ghost are central. Members are encouraged to live holy lives. They should be ready for death and the rapture.
Today, New Mt. Olivet Apostolic Church stands as a testament to faith. The Mount Olivet Organization has grown nationally and internationally. It includes churches in the United States and Jamaica. The church emphasizes that it is all about Jesus. He alone receives all the glory. As you stand here, remember the journey of New Mt. Olivet Apostolic Church. From a small group of believers to a global organization, their story is one of unwavering faith.