The History of Greater Mt. Vernon

The foundation of Greater Mount Vernon Missionary Baptist Church began humbly in 1961 in the home of the late Rev. Earnest Carter. It was there that Bible classes and prayer meetings were first held, and Rev. Carter received a vision to formally establish a church, naming it Mount Vernon Baptist Church. The early congregation consisted of three deacons, a choir director, and one candidate for baptism, setting the stage for what would become a thriving community of worship.

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After Rev. Carter moved to another city, the late Rev. Johnny Jones was called to lead the congregation, with Rev. Samuel C. Brown serving as his assistant pastor. Upon Rev. Jones’ passing in 1967, Rev. Brown assumed the role of pastor. Known for his kindness and humility, Rev. Brown embraced Romans 1:14 as his guiding scripture:
"I am a debtor both to the wise and to the unwise. So, as much as is in me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you."

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Under Rev. Brown’s leadership, the church experienced significant growth. By 1967, Mount Vernon Baptist Church had expanded to include 12 deacons and deaconesses. Sis. Ruby Cox directed the choir, with the late Bro. Leon Pines serving as the musician. God's blessings were evident as the congregation continued to flourish, and on March 17, 1985, the church dedicated its new building, officially renaming it Mount Vernon Missionary Baptist Church. A few months later, on August 11, the church’s cornerstone was laid. Around 1999, the sanctuary, fellowship hall, and a dedicated children’s church were expanded to accommodate the growing membership.

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In recognition of these continued blessings, on May 22, 2005, the church was rededicated as Greater Mount Vernon Missionary Baptist Church. By then, the church had 21 deacons and deaconesses, including Paul Bell, Robert Baham, Terry Brown, the late Henry Davis, Clarence Gaten, Larry Francis, the late Howard Burnett, Jeff Moore, Lee Vern Showers, Alex Showers, Earl Slocum, the late Valentine Washington, Isaac Williams, James Bradley, Jeremy Showers, Jaye Kelly, the late James Jones, Ray Tillis, Derrick Wilson, and Selven Cox. The choir flourished under the leadership of Bro. Clifford Guy Walker as Music Director, Elder Michael Jackson as Minister of Music, and Bro. Robert Cox as Percussionist, with Sis. Ruby Cox and Sis. Dorothy Burnett serving as choir president and vice president.

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Today, Greater Mount Vernon Missionary Baptist Church continues to thrive under the guidance of Dr. Samuel C. Brown. The church remains grateful for God’s faithfulness, reflecting on its rich history while looking forward to all that God has in store.