Mount Olive Baptist Church History THE BEGINNINGS The Mount Olive Baptist Church was organized as the Montezuma Baptist Church around 1885 in Centreville, Virginia, in what was known as "Uniontown" and later recognized as "Bushtown". The exact date of its establishment isn’t noted. However, the Montezuma Baptist Church was admitted into the Northern Virginia Baptist Association in 1885 during its 8th annual session held with the First Baptist Church, Manassas, VA. It was born out of a desire to give thanks and gratitude to God in an organized setting. In 1897, with Rev. R. B. Clarke as Pastor and William Sprow as Clerk, the church’s name was changed from Montezuma to that of the Mount Olive Baptist Church. On February 7, 1898, a ½ acre parcel of land was purchased for the amount of $9.00 from Samuel and Emma J. Harris along Mill Road in Centreville, Fairfax County. Reverend William Smith guided the members in building the first church edifice on Mill Road, which was later named Old Mill Road. The charter members and founders were: Emma Harris, Allison Smith, Julia Chloe, Lum Chloe, William Chloe, William Smith, William Sprow, Joseph Long, Alexander Brown, Mary Lancaster and Mary Henderson. The first deacons were: William Sprow, William Chloe and Joseph Long. Under these first leaders the church grew. OUR FORMER PASTORS The Pastors identified on record as serving the church are: 1890 - 1891 – Rev. W. H. Harris 1891 - 1893 – Rev. R. H. Goffney 1893 - 1896 – Rev. G. W. Whorton 1896 - 1899 – Rev. R. B. Clarke 1899 - 1900 – Rev. Daniel Lomax served as Supply Pastor 1900 - 1917 – Rev. William Smith 1918 - 1920 – Rev. S. A. Holbert (Served for two years) 1922 - 1948 – Rev. Benjamin F. Payne Rev. Albert Davis (Interim Pastor) 1949 – Rev. Roger V. Bush (Served until his death) 1972 – Rev. Freddie L. Brown, Sr. (left before the dedication of the new edifice 1980) Rev. Richard Garner 1983 - 1991 – Rev. John. E. Blackmon, Sr. KEY EVENTS Under his leadership of Reverend Benjamin F. Payne, the church building was moved from the old site on Old Mill Road to its present site on Old Centreville Road. A new church edifice was erected in 1925 on land donated by James Brooks. Reverend Payne was accorded Pastor Emeritus in recognition of his long and faithful service. He died in 1950.. Under the leadership of Reverend Roger V. Bush the church obtained a legal deed to the property in 1950. The church was completely renovated. Reverend Freddie L. Brown, Sr. led the church to build a new Sanctuary, baptistery and classrooms. The new edifice was dedicated in May 1980. Under the leadership of Reverend John E. Blackmon, Sr., an early morning worship service was begun and the Church’s mortgage was wiped out by the members sacrificial giving. CHURCH BURNS - We suffered a fire in the fellowship hall, which necessitated a decision in 1989 to rebuild a new
fellowship hall and kitchen. The project was completed and a dedication service was held in January 1992. MOUNT OLIVE BEGINS A NEW CHAPTER – Deconsecrating Service held May 2009
Construction of New Church Edifice – July 2009 OUR CURRENT PASTOR Rev. Dr. Eugene Johnson took the helm on November 1, 1992. He was installed on April 25th, 1993.Reverend Johnson is a native of Oakville, LA. He has a lovely helpmate, Deaconess June L. Johnson and two sons, Brian (Shakana) and Kevin, one granddaughter and one grandson. He is a son, in the ministry, of the Chantilly Baptist Church, Chantilly, VA.
The congregation is inspired by his timely sermons and his compassion for all in every aspect of their lives. His vision for ministry is inspired by a true dedication to building the Kingdom of God and in concert with the Mission of Mount Olive. Under the dedicated leadership of Reverend Johnson the membership has grown by leaps and bounds. Membership has increased to nearly 2,000 members. Rev. Johnson’s ministerial staff of 15 associates includes 9 sons and daughters called to the ministry under his spiritual leadership and 5 ministers ordained in the last 5 years. It is also noted that the impressive economic opportunities in this area has attracted an influx of persons who are an asset to the church, enabling new life and vitality to Mount Olive. Under the capable pastoral leadership of Reverend Johnson, the church has experienced numerous accomplishments. Many of which are unprecedented in the history of the Church. The church has embarked on the construction of a 52,000 square foot building facility. We thank God for sending us a man who is truly anointed. We envision great things happening under Reverend Johnson's capable leadership. THE CHURCH IS BLESSED We take this opportunity to thank God for all of the good men he has placed here to lead us. We also remember the many fine souls who have gone on to Glory and beat us running; those members and church officials are deeply missed. The history of our church is indeed a long one. Although there have been many trials and tribulations, many ups and downs, and many glorious times, the church has stood because it was built on the "Solid Rock and that Rock is Jesus."