Tuesday, January 06, 2009 You Are Here: History  | 
 
 

Mount Zion Original Building

In 1852 the churches of Rock Mountain Association contributed funds to employ a missionary, the Rev. John C. Bartlett, age 29 to preach the gospel to destitute parts of the association. Rev. Bartlett led 13 charter members of Mount Zion in prayer and provided for them a constitution on August 3,1853. This was his last major effort in his life, he died a month later at the age of 30. Mount Zion has prevailed against the ravages of war, economic depression, hardship and trials. In September of 1853, the first offering was taken and was less than a dollar. The first building program was in October of 1853 (see picture above). In September of 1854 the church had almost doubled and had 24 members. Several children of the charter members and early members of Mount Zion lost family members in the Civil War. Three acres of land where given by Levi Loveless and James Flowers to Mount Zion. Mount Zion began in March of 1900 the first Sabbath school we know this now as Sunday school. There were 52 people that day for Sunday school and the sanctuary was divided by curtains to make four separate classrooms. 
 
 

Genesis Building

In 1947 the church installed electric lighting, prior to this there were candles in the sanctuary and the pastor would read with a kerosene lamp. This building pictured above had a groundbreaking service on June 20th, 1949. It took four years to complete, men worked as money was available. It was dedicated on the 100th year church anniversary in 1953. It still stands and is used for Middle School Bible Study space. 
 

Mount Zion 2007

God has been faithful, His Mighty Hand has been on this church since 1853. A new day awaits to see what God will do at Mount Zion through His people for His glory.
 

Important Dates

1948- First Vacation Bible School

1972- Church voted to build 600 seat sanctuary

1974- First Associate Pastor (youth/music)

1975- Weekday Preschool opens

1976- Church bought five additional acres

1977- Church voted to build Christian Life Center & two-story education building

2000- Present sanctuary and renovations were completed

 
Copyright 2007 "Mount Zion Baptist Church"