Our History

 

Rev E. L. Burnside and Deacon Charles Sancho Sr. organized Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church in July 1965 at Nathaniel Brown Street. The organizing service was held August 1965 by Rev. Leverett at Trinity Rest Missionary Baptist Church. At that time, there were four members: Sis G. Burnside, Deacon C. Sancho Sr. (clerk), Sis M. Houston (secretary), and Deacon J. Houston (treasurer).

 

During the years, from 1965 to 1968, the church membership grew to 26 (12 adults, 3 being deacons, and 14 children), and we know that “all things work together for the good to them that love God” (Romans 8:28).

 

In early summer of 1968, Pastor Burnside called a meeting with the brethren to discuss the possibility of structuring a new church. Work began in June of that same year and the doors of the new building were opened in December 1968 at the present location, 6328 England Street.

 

As the church continued to grow, Rev. Burnside, along with the brethren, decided that, still more room was needed. Therefore, on December 31, 1977, a meeting took place to set a plan in motion to enlarge the church. Our Pastor worked diligently on the building and the enlargement was completed July 1980.

 

Pastor Burnside baptized many of our members and Christened a number of babies. From the beginning to the present date (1965 – 2012) we have been blessed to foster approximately 550 members!

 

In January of 1984, Mt Carmel held a Mortgage Burning Celebration Service and on September 22, 1991, Mt Carmel held a Cornerstone Laying Service.

 

As Mt. Carmel continued to grow, Pastor Burnside saw the need for a larger building. On December 27, 1998 we had our Grand Entrance Celebration; marching into our present location.