“Upon this Rock I’ll Build My Church.” That was the title of Pastor Cox’s first sermon at True Love Missionary Baptist Church. He preached it on November 26 1967. The congregation proudly marched into its new edifice that day.
True Love Missionary Baptist Church’s story began as a small mission. It started in 1942 at the residence of Rev Moses Small. The address was 5218 Roosevelt Street. This small band included several dedicated individuals. Rev Glover Bro Cherry Miller and Sis Bessie Jenkins were among them.
The mission evolved into a church shortly after its beginning. It moved to 5126 Roosevelt Street. Sis Clara Miller suggested the name True Love Missionary Baptist Church. Rev J S Murray became the first pastor of this fledgling flock.
In 1943 Rev Ernest N Cox was called as the new leader. He served faithfully for 25 years. Pastor Cox and his wife Martha came from Rising Arkansas. They put their shoulders to the task. Their labors immediately bore fruit.
The congregation grew significantly under Pastor Cox’s leadership. It increased from eight members to 47. He spearheaded a financial drive. The church purchased property at 2927 West Warren Avenue. The cost was $7500.
This era saw spiritual and numerical growth. Many church auxiliaries were formed. These included a Sunday School and a Baptist Young People Union. Senior and Junior Choirs were also established.
Due to rapid growth the church launched a drive for a new building. On December 4 1955 the congregation marched to 3987 Maybury Grand. This new home was a former Lutheran house of worship. It was purchased for $80000.
The new edifice included a school with an auditorium. It also had a cafeteria and bowling alley. The church continued to expand. New auxiliaries were added. These included the Excelsior Choir and the Pastor’s Chorus.
Trustees volunteered to build a baptizing pool. Sisters Vashti Bowman and Farrie Brandon worked to enhance the church’s financial stability. True Love remained at Maybury Grand for 11 years.
City progress then mandated another move. The Fisher and Jeffries Freeways were being built. Pastor Cox and committee members selected a new site. It was located at 8200 Tireman.
The property was purchased. A church plant was built for $168000. This was the first church home built from the ground up. Before moving services were held at 5050 Joy Road.
Pastor Cox continued his ministry until April 19 1970. He then answered a higher calling. In September 1970 Rev Herbert B Robinson Sr accepted the call to the True Love pastorate.
Under Pastor Robinson’s leadership many positive changes occurred. The Seven Weeks of Prayer became an integral part of worship. Sunday School attendance tripled. A Board of Christian Education was organized.
Several additional properties were acquired. Parking lots were paved. The church plant was completely renovated. New ministries were added. These included the Altar Circle and the Benevolent Ministry.
On October 21 1994 True Love celebrated its 52nd anniversary. A banquet was held at Cobo Hall’s Riverview Dining Room. Pastor Robinson presented Christian Service Awards.
In November 1997 Pastor Robinson led a delegation to Israel. He conducted baptismal services in the River Jordan. In February 1999 Pastor and Sis Robinson journeyed to Africa.
During 1998 and 1999 True Love Baptist Church ordained several ministers. The church also sent clothing and school supplies to the Ivory Coast. True Love continues to win souls. It does this by witnessing for Christ. The church uses the word of faith. It engages in the work of the ministry. It worships in His praise. It marvels at the wonder of His love.