First Baptist Church Mahan Street
112 Mahan Street
In existence for over 130 years, this church has the distinction of being the mother church for many African-American churches in Suffolk. Service was first held in 1866, at Union Chapel located in Green Hill Cemetery (Cedar Hill Cemetery). Worship was held there until 1868 when the congregation moved to the old Alms house on the corner of North Main and Mahan Street, then known as Second Cross and Front Streets. Then in 1870, constructed their first church on what was then Back Street, now known as Church Street. A new church was built in 1892 on Mahan Street. The current church was constructed in 1951 with an addition built in the 2010s where the Alms House once stood.
Mount Sinai Baptist Church
6100 Holy Neck Road
In 1868, the formerly enslaved Rev. Israel Cross founded Mount Sinai Baptist Church in a log building here on Benjamin Howell's land. He allegedly never closed a sermon without saying, "Buy some land, build a home, and get some education." In 1871, the congregation replaced the log church with a wood-frame building, later remodeled in 1908 and 1911. The current Gothic Revival building was constructed in 1921. Carter G. Woodson, author of The Rural Negro (1930 Edition), called it "An Unusual Church for the Rural Community." Annexes were added to the church in 1966 and 2000. The Only African American Church in Suffolk with a state marker.
Tynes Street Baptist Church
Macedonia African Methodists Episcopal Church
127 Pine Street
On May 22, 1780, Bishop Francis Asbury, the founder and leader of Methodism in America, held a service in the Nansemond area, and about one hundred people discussed the formation of a Methodist Society. In 1801, a Methodist Society was formally organized in Suffolk.
Following the formation in 1801 of a Methodist Society, the citizens of Suffolk felt a need for a meeting house where several different church denominations could hold services. A simple-frame building was constructed 'on the hill' (now Cedar Hill Cemetery) and was called Union Chapel. As was the custom of the time, masters and their slaves worshipped together with the slaves seated in the rear or the balcony.
Shortly after the conclusion of the Civil War in 1865, the Colored (Africans) briefly worship separately from whites at Union Chapel. Sometime after the remaining white congregations stopped worshipping at Union Chapel. In 1866 the Colored (Africans), formed and called themselves Methodist. Their mission congregation fell under the auspices of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Although the Colored (Africans) Methodist Church continued to worship at Union Chapel, Union Chapel was eventually purchased by the Methodist, now Main Street United Methodist Church.
The Colored (Africans) Methodist Church opened its doors to a group of African Baptists, the current First Baptist Church Mahan Street. One congregation worshipped in the front and the other in the rear. The number of worshippers grew so large; the two congregations began to worship on alternate Sundays. Eventually, the Colored Baptist moved to Church Street.
Having already completed a new worship facility on Main Street, the Methodist Church agreed to sell all materials from Union Chapel for the construction of a church at a different location. In 1867, the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church extended a letter of invitation for the African Methodist to join the AME Church. The invitation was met with approval by the Methodist Church and accepted by the Colored (Africans) Methodist. The AME Mission was birthed.
In October 1868, the African Methodist Mission purchased a lot on Pine Street from Richard and Marie Tynes which is where the church now stands. These early members did not own wagons and other means of transportation, so they transported the disassembled timbers of the old Union Chapel, plank by plank and board by board from Cedar Hill to Pine Street on their shoulders. Sometime during 1869, the building was deemed habitable for worship.
The records of the Fourth Virginia Annual Conference of African Methodist Church held during 1870 indicates that Macedonia Mission was officially accepted into the Virginia Annual Conference. Bishop A.W. Wayman, presided at the conference. Macedonia Mission was assigned to the Portsmouth District under the leadership of Reverend D.W. Schureman, Presiding Elder.
Macedonia Mission Official Board of 1870 consisted of the following Trustees: Richard Tynes, Jr., Levy Ricks, Rich Artis, Arnold Ricks, George Randall, William Jackson, and Frank Phil. The following person was nominated by Reverend Richard Goven and confirmed by Presiding Elder Schureman as Stewards: Robert Walters, Richard Holland, W.W. Newby, and John Cohon.
With the prayers and the help of GOD, the church building on Pine Street was completed and the deed was recorded on the 12th of January 1872. The trustees of record on the 1872 deed were the following: Richard Tynes, Jr., David Jackson, Neely Holland, James Hardy, Boston Bryant, Solomon Saunders, and James Reed.
The records of the Thirteenth Virginia Annual Conference of African Methodist Church held during 1879 indicate that Macedonia Methodist Mission became Macedonia African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Following the formation in 1801 of a Methodist Society, the citizens of Suffolk felt a need for a meeting house where several different church denominations could hold services. A simple-frame building was constructed 'on the hill' (now Cedar Hill Cemetery) and was called Union Chapel. As was the custom of the time, masters and their slaves worshipped together with the slaves seated in the rear or the balcony.
Shortly after the conclusion of the Civil War in 1865, the Colored (Africans) briefly worship separately from whites at Union Chapel. Sometime after the remaining white congregations stopped worshipping at Union Chapel. In 1866 the Colored (Africans), formed and called themselves Methodist. Their mission congregation fell under the auspices of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Although the Colored (Africans) Methodist Church continued to worship at Union Chapel, Union Chapel was eventually purchased by the Methodist, now Main Street United Methodist Church.
The Colored (Africans) Methodist Church opened its doors to a group of African Baptists, the current First Baptist Church Mahan Street. One congregation worshipped in the front and the other in the rear. The number of worshippers grew so large; the two congregations began to worship on alternate Sundays. Eventually, the Colored Baptist moved to Church Street.
Having already completed a new worship facility on Main Street, the Methodist Church agreed to sell all materials from Union Chapel for the construction of a church at a different location. In 1867, the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church extended a letter of invitation for the African Methodist to join the AME Church. The invitation was met with approval by the Methodist Church and accepted by the Colored (Africans) Methodist. The AME Mission was birthed.
In October 1868, the African Methodist Mission purchased a lot on Pine Street from Richard and Marie Tynes which is where the church now stands. These early members did not own wagons and other means of transportation, so they transported the disassembled timbers of the old Union Chapel, plank by plank and board by board from Cedar Hill to Pine Street on their shoulders. Sometime during 1869, the building was deemed habitable for worship.
The records of the Fourth Virginia Annual Conference of African Methodist Church held during 1870 indicates that Macedonia Mission was officially accepted into the Virginia Annual Conference. Bishop A.W. Wayman, presided at the conference. Macedonia Mission was assigned to the Portsmouth District under the leadership of Reverend D.W. Schureman, Presiding Elder.
Macedonia Mission Official Board of 1870 consisted of the following Trustees: Richard Tynes, Jr., Levy Ricks, Rich Artis, Arnold Ricks, George Randall, William Jackson, and Frank Phil. The following person was nominated by Reverend Richard Goven and confirmed by Presiding Elder Schureman as Stewards: Robert Walters, Richard Holland, W.W. Newby, and John Cohon.
With the prayers and the help of GOD, the church building on Pine Street was completed and the deed was recorded on the 12th of January 1872. The trustees of record on the 1872 deed were the following: Richard Tynes, Jr., David Jackson, Neely Holland, James Hardy, Boston Bryant, Solomon Saunders, and James Reed.
The records of the Thirteenth Virginia Annual Conference of African Methodist Church held during 1879 indicate that Macedonia Methodist Mission became Macedonia African Methodist Episcopal Church.
Mt. Ararat Christian Church
1860 Airport Rd, Suffolk, VA
Mount Ararat Christian Church was founded over 143 years ago in 1866. The first services were held under a bush shelter about a quarter mile from the present site on Hardy Skeeter’s track, located on old Hosier Lane. It wouldn't be until three years later that the members erected their first building. The members purchased the Old Salem Church (off old Desert Road), which was previously owned by a white Methodist congregation. Upon securing the purchase, the building was dismantled and erected at the present site. Construction began in March 1872.
The humble building was framed with a top, and boards were used for the floor. There were no windows in the building at this time. The seats were constructed of blocks with boards laid across them. The only piece of furniture was a table for the bible, which is still in use today. In celebration of the new building a dedication service was held in the fall of 1872. The service was performed by the Reverends W.B. Wellons and E.B. Beale, both white Christian ministers, and Jacob Skeeter. The Rev Justin Copeland was the officiating pastor at the time and would be preceded by Rev Frank Jordan. Rev Jordan received his conversion under the bush shelter and went on to serve as pastor for approximately 20 years.
On December 11, 1873, the Virginia Christian and Conference of Colored People was organized at Mount Ararat Christian Church. Reverends John W. Moring, E.W. Beale, and Doctor William B. Wellons assisted in organizing the conference.
The humble building was framed with a top, and boards were used for the floor. There were no windows in the building at this time. The seats were constructed of blocks with boards laid across them. The only piece of furniture was a table for the bible, which is still in use today. In celebration of the new building a dedication service was held in the fall of 1872. The service was performed by the Reverends W.B. Wellons and E.B. Beale, both white Christian ministers, and Jacob Skeeter. The Rev Justin Copeland was the officiating pastor at the time and would be preceded by Rev Frank Jordan. Rev Jordan received his conversion under the bush shelter and went on to serve as pastor for approximately 20 years.
On December 11, 1873, the Virginia Christian and Conference of Colored People was organized at Mount Ararat Christian Church. Reverends John W. Moring, E.W. Beale, and Doctor William B. Wellons assisted in organizing the conference.
Canaan Baptist Church
2064 Nansemond Parkway, Suffolk, VA 23434
Joseph Lowery, former President of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, respectfully known as the NAACP, once stated, "If you don't know where you came from, it's difficult to assess where you are. It's even more difficult to plan where you are going." Trials and tribulations are never too great for our God. Those who believe this act like it. They are confident, calm, and secure in the face of danger, for they know that the Lord will make away. Our church history exemplifies this spirit. We are blessed to inherit such a rich heritage, which includes events taken place in the leadership and progress of our Church and its people.
The history of our Church dates back to 1875, the same period as the "famous Black Exodus" and the institutionalization of the Jim Crow laws. Despite the impediments, hurdles, and obstacles, a small group of people approximately twelve in number felt the need to have a Church. There were not any churches within walking distance as Mr. Dempsie Wiggins would often team up his wagon to transport others to worship at First Baptist Church, Mahan Street, in Suffolk. Realizing the strong need for a church, the first recorded Church was set up at what is known as Wilroy, Virginia. This location, just opposite the Southern Railroad, was, at that time known as Wiggins' Grove. Its name was taken from Mr. Dempsie Wiggins, the man to whom this estate belonged at that time. In and about the year of 1875, we started a small number of Believers under the leadership of the Rev. J. Washington Sumler. Financial weakness, as well as time for preparation, forced us to begin with this humble gathering through the mercy of God and Mr. Wiggins' generosity to allow our privilege to use his building as a place of worship. Realizing that unity would be a significant factor in keeping the few together, it was during the Pastorate of Rev. Sumler that we purchased one acre of land, erected, and dedicated a building for God's service. The name selected was Canaan, which signified dedication and accomplishment.
Under the leadership of Rev. Sumler, the first benches were placed in Canaan. He served the small Congregation for twelve years (1875-1887), and God saw fit to call him home. Knowing that to prosper, a church must have a leader, and we next chose Rev. T. A. Wood to become Pastor. He served the Congregation for two years (1887-1889). His first sermon was "Faith, Hope, and Charity." The sermon served as consolation, and the old Canaan kept marching.
Under Rev. Wood's leadership, in 1883, Canaan Baptist Sunday School was organized, with Mr. George Worrell serving as the first Superintendent. Succeeding Rev. Wood was the Rev. Newsome Martin of Suffolk, Virginia. Under Rev. Martin's leadership, the Congregation began to increase, and the church building was enlarged. At the end of twelve years (1889-1901), Rev. Newsome Martin resigned as Pastor. We still knew that we must have a leader for the flock; through God's inspiration, we next chose the Rev. M. N. Zollicofer of Littleton, North Carolina as our fourth Pastor. Under his leadership, the membership continued to increase. Our Deacon Board membership increased as we became stronger spiritually. Several auxiliaries were organized to aid the Church. Many of these auxiliaries are in existence today and continue to give significant financial aid to our Church. During Rev. Zollicofer's leadership, a choir was formed to aid in worship service. The Senior Choir was organized in 1915 with Mr. Edd Willie as the first president. The Usher Board was organized in 1925 with Mrs. Sara Willie Clark as the first president. Two study rooms were added, Delco lights were installed, after which electrical lights and the church top was changed from shingle to metal. The mortgage on the Church was burned. After serving faithfully for twenty-nine years (1901-1930), Rev. Zollicofer resigned as Pastor.
We were like lumps of clay on the potter's wheel, as God the Divine Potter was ready to mold our future. God's hands were on us now, molding and remolding who we are and who we should be. We were in the process of becoming God's finished product while realizing the need for a church leader to maintain God's work in Christian service. The Congregation accepted Rev. G. W. Sharpe of Portsmouth, Virginia as the next Pastor of Canaan Baptist. Under the leadership of Rev. Sharpe, the Missionary Circle came back into existence, and the auxiliaries of the Church expanded in their duties and efficiency. The choir stand was enlarged and became an elevated extension of the pulpit; the pulpit was moved forward, altered, and enlarged. Pews were altered, painted, and rearranged. Under Rev. Sharpe's leadership, Mr. Troy Boone was ordained as a deacon of Canaan Baptist Church. After two years of serving Canaan's membership, Rev. Sharpe offered resignation (1930-1932).
Our sixth leader was Dr. S. H. Lathan of Portsmouth, Virginia. Many accomplishments were made during his Pastorate, namely, new flooring for the Church, walls were plastered, the roof arched, and material changed. Once again, the pulpit and choir loft were enlarged. The pulpit was refurbished, running water, restrooms, first aid room, a baptismal pool under the pulpit, and carpet on the floor was installed. A Hammond organ with chimes a Baby Grand piano, new church pews, a communion set, and steam heat, radiators, Baptist Hymnals for the entire Congregation was also purchased. The Young People's Choir was organized in 1939 with Mrs. Georgianna Pope as President. The plan of tithing was brought to us, which is still in existence at this time. Under his Pastorate, leadership evolved from the likes of Deacons Roscoe Pierce, William Willie, Ed Darden, Alfred Darden, V.B. Burgess, Bernard Daye, Ferry Parker, Sr. Troy Boone, Russell Boone, Sr. and Chairman of Deacons, John S. Everett. Women also contributed to the spiritual growth of the Church with the guidance of Deaconesses Sarah Diggs, Mamie Patterson, Mary Willie, Annie Lundy, Chestine Darden, and Ethel Skinner. As an added responsibility to the upkeep of the Church, Trustees Joe Everett, Clifton Willie, along with other board members, accepted their tasks in the spirit of love abound. Mrs. Blanche Lewis served in dual roles as Church Clerk and Deaconess, willing to stay on the battlefield for God. Deacon Troy Boone became Superintendent of the Sunday School. Canaan Baptist Church was blessed to have celebrated its " 75th Diamond Jubilee Anniversary" Sunday, November 12 through Sunday, November 19, 1950. The planning committee worked faithfully to ensure a successful celebration.
The planning committee consisted of Miss Elma Willie, Chair, Mrs. Ethel Godwin, Dr. S. H. Lathan, Pastor, Mrs. Eunice Thomas, Mr. Troy Boone, and Mrs. E. Dellis Lawrence. A beautiful commemorative Souvenir Program of Canaan Baptist Church was the committee most exquisite presentation given to the Church. It was under his leadership that plans were made for the present edifice, which we are privileged to enjoy today. Rev. Lathan served us until God saw fit to call him home. He served faithfully our Congregation for eighteen years (1932-1950).
The history of our Church dates back to 1875, the same period as the "famous Black Exodus" and the institutionalization of the Jim Crow laws. Despite the impediments, hurdles, and obstacles, a small group of people approximately twelve in number felt the need to have a Church. There were not any churches within walking distance as Mr. Dempsie Wiggins would often team up his wagon to transport others to worship at First Baptist Church, Mahan Street, in Suffolk. Realizing the strong need for a church, the first recorded Church was set up at what is known as Wilroy, Virginia. This location, just opposite the Southern Railroad, was, at that time known as Wiggins' Grove. Its name was taken from Mr. Dempsie Wiggins, the man to whom this estate belonged at that time. In and about the year of 1875, we started a small number of Believers under the leadership of the Rev. J. Washington Sumler. Financial weakness, as well as time for preparation, forced us to begin with this humble gathering through the mercy of God and Mr. Wiggins' generosity to allow our privilege to use his building as a place of worship. Realizing that unity would be a significant factor in keeping the few together, it was during the Pastorate of Rev. Sumler that we purchased one acre of land, erected, and dedicated a building for God's service. The name selected was Canaan, which signified dedication and accomplishment.
Under the leadership of Rev. Sumler, the first benches were placed in Canaan. He served the small Congregation for twelve years (1875-1887), and God saw fit to call him home. Knowing that to prosper, a church must have a leader, and we next chose Rev. T. A. Wood to become Pastor. He served the Congregation for two years (1887-1889). His first sermon was "Faith, Hope, and Charity." The sermon served as consolation, and the old Canaan kept marching.
Under Rev. Wood's leadership, in 1883, Canaan Baptist Sunday School was organized, with Mr. George Worrell serving as the first Superintendent. Succeeding Rev. Wood was the Rev. Newsome Martin of Suffolk, Virginia. Under Rev. Martin's leadership, the Congregation began to increase, and the church building was enlarged. At the end of twelve years (1889-1901), Rev. Newsome Martin resigned as Pastor. We still knew that we must have a leader for the flock; through God's inspiration, we next chose the Rev. M. N. Zollicofer of Littleton, North Carolina as our fourth Pastor. Under his leadership, the membership continued to increase. Our Deacon Board membership increased as we became stronger spiritually. Several auxiliaries were organized to aid the Church. Many of these auxiliaries are in existence today and continue to give significant financial aid to our Church. During Rev. Zollicofer's leadership, a choir was formed to aid in worship service. The Senior Choir was organized in 1915 with Mr. Edd Willie as the first president. The Usher Board was organized in 1925 with Mrs. Sara Willie Clark as the first president. Two study rooms were added, Delco lights were installed, after which electrical lights and the church top was changed from shingle to metal. The mortgage on the Church was burned. After serving faithfully for twenty-nine years (1901-1930), Rev. Zollicofer resigned as Pastor.
We were like lumps of clay on the potter's wheel, as God the Divine Potter was ready to mold our future. God's hands were on us now, molding and remolding who we are and who we should be. We were in the process of becoming God's finished product while realizing the need for a church leader to maintain God's work in Christian service. The Congregation accepted Rev. G. W. Sharpe of Portsmouth, Virginia as the next Pastor of Canaan Baptist. Under the leadership of Rev. Sharpe, the Missionary Circle came back into existence, and the auxiliaries of the Church expanded in their duties and efficiency. The choir stand was enlarged and became an elevated extension of the pulpit; the pulpit was moved forward, altered, and enlarged. Pews were altered, painted, and rearranged. Under Rev. Sharpe's leadership, Mr. Troy Boone was ordained as a deacon of Canaan Baptist Church. After two years of serving Canaan's membership, Rev. Sharpe offered resignation (1930-1932).
Our sixth leader was Dr. S. H. Lathan of Portsmouth, Virginia. Many accomplishments were made during his Pastorate, namely, new flooring for the Church, walls were plastered, the roof arched, and material changed. Once again, the pulpit and choir loft were enlarged. The pulpit was refurbished, running water, restrooms, first aid room, a baptismal pool under the pulpit, and carpet on the floor was installed. A Hammond organ with chimes a Baby Grand piano, new church pews, a communion set, and steam heat, radiators, Baptist Hymnals for the entire Congregation was also purchased. The Young People's Choir was organized in 1939 with Mrs. Georgianna Pope as President. The plan of tithing was brought to us, which is still in existence at this time. Under his Pastorate, leadership evolved from the likes of Deacons Roscoe Pierce, William Willie, Ed Darden, Alfred Darden, V.B. Burgess, Bernard Daye, Ferry Parker, Sr. Troy Boone, Russell Boone, Sr. and Chairman of Deacons, John S. Everett. Women also contributed to the spiritual growth of the Church with the guidance of Deaconesses Sarah Diggs, Mamie Patterson, Mary Willie, Annie Lundy, Chestine Darden, and Ethel Skinner. As an added responsibility to the upkeep of the Church, Trustees Joe Everett, Clifton Willie, along with other board members, accepted their tasks in the spirit of love abound. Mrs. Blanche Lewis served in dual roles as Church Clerk and Deaconess, willing to stay on the battlefield for God. Deacon Troy Boone became Superintendent of the Sunday School. Canaan Baptist Church was blessed to have celebrated its " 75th Diamond Jubilee Anniversary" Sunday, November 12 through Sunday, November 19, 1950. The planning committee worked faithfully to ensure a successful celebration.
The planning committee consisted of Miss Elma Willie, Chair, Mrs. Ethel Godwin, Dr. S. H. Lathan, Pastor, Mrs. Eunice Thomas, Mr. Troy Boone, and Mrs. E. Dellis Lawrence. A beautiful commemorative Souvenir Program of Canaan Baptist Church was the committee most exquisite presentation given to the Church. It was under his leadership that plans were made for the present edifice, which we are privileged to enjoy today. Rev. Lathan served us until God saw fit to call him home. He served faithfully our Congregation for eighteen years (1932-1950).
Laurel Hill Church of Christ
8001 South Quay Road, Suffolk, VA
Here we will tell the story of the beginnings of our church and how we became what we are today. It was in the year 1877 that Jack Jones (black) asked the Rev. R.H. Holland (white) to give the black people a place on the hill so they could have a church of their own and a burying ground. Rev. Holland gave to Mr. Jones and his sons, Walter and Jackson Howell as much land as they wanted. The first Church size was the size of a large room.
In 1885 the Rev. Holland wanted a better location for the church, so it was moved and rebuilt farther up the Hill beside a laurel tree. The church was then named Laurel Hill Christian Church. The Rev. Frank E. Jordan was the first Black pastor and he pastored until his death in 1899. Rev. Patton pastored for six years and then resigned.
The church was then pastored by Rev. C. A. Harris. For more than thirty years Rev. Harris was the guiding light of the program and progress of Laurel Hill Church. It was under his leadership that the church was renovated, choir room, pastor's study, window installation and choir stand added. In 1945, Rev. Harris resigned. In 1946 Rev. Zanda Jenkins took on the role as pastor for twenty-two years. Many projects in the church and the community were fostered through his leadership. In church related activities, namely; an acre of land purchased, educational building constructed and completed, renovation of interior and exterior. In 1968 Rev. Jenkins resigned and Rev. Joseph B. West was voted in by the pastoral committee in 1969.
In 1970, the committee appointed Rev. J. J. Ferguson as their pastor. Under his leadership there were many accomplishments such as outside improvement of grounds, renovation to church entrance, new choir robes, completion of pastor's study and the installation of the baptismal pool. In April of 1998, Rev. Ferguson announced his retirement. He now serves as the Pastor Emeritus of Laurel Hill United Church of Christ.
In August 2000, Rev. Carl L. Sweat became the new pastor of Laurel Hill United Church of Christ. During his leadership the church has maintained an active children's ministry, new fellowship hall has been added, installation of media equipment and continuance of preaching God's word.
In 1885 the Rev. Holland wanted a better location for the church, so it was moved and rebuilt farther up the Hill beside a laurel tree. The church was then named Laurel Hill Christian Church. The Rev. Frank E. Jordan was the first Black pastor and he pastored until his death in 1899. Rev. Patton pastored for six years and then resigned.
The church was then pastored by Rev. C. A. Harris. For more than thirty years Rev. Harris was the guiding light of the program and progress of Laurel Hill Church. It was under his leadership that the church was renovated, choir room, pastor's study, window installation and choir stand added. In 1945, Rev. Harris resigned. In 1946 Rev. Zanda Jenkins took on the role as pastor for twenty-two years. Many projects in the church and the community were fostered through his leadership. In church related activities, namely; an acre of land purchased, educational building constructed and completed, renovation of interior and exterior. In 1968 Rev. Jenkins resigned and Rev. Joseph B. West was voted in by the pastoral committee in 1969.
In 1970, the committee appointed Rev. J. J. Ferguson as their pastor. Under his leadership there were many accomplishments such as outside improvement of grounds, renovation to church entrance, new choir robes, completion of pastor's study and the installation of the baptismal pool. In April of 1998, Rev. Ferguson announced his retirement. He now serves as the Pastor Emeritus of Laurel Hill United Church of Christ.
In August 2000, Rev. Carl L. Sweat became the new pastor of Laurel Hill United Church of Christ. During his leadership the church has maintained an active children's ministry, new fellowship hall has been added, installation of media equipment and continuance of preaching God's word.
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Zion United Church of Christ5200 Quaker Drive
Zion officially organized and joined the Christian Conference in 1867, it started before the Civil War in a bush shelter, built by local black families “that were free to worship in their own manner,” according to a history of the church prepared for the occasion of its 125th anniversary in 1992. The church later moved to a log cabin on the same site, which was also used as a school for local black children. The church members showed such commitment to worshiping even without the leadership of
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a pastor that the Rev. Robert Holland of Holy Neck Christian Church began preaching on the first Sunday evening of every month. Soon, the plot of land on Quaker Drive was purchased from Henry Jones “for the price of removing the dirt from the ditch bank,” the history stated. The first official pastor in 1867 as the Rev. Justin Copeland. The current building was constructed in 1910 and has had several additions and renovations. These days, the church has 103 members. It features a vibrant music ministry, including a choir, organist, drummer and three guitar players. “We also have some young children that are trying to learn to beat the drums,” Copeland said. It also conducts outreach beyond its size, ministering to residents of local nursing homes and those who are incarcerated. The church also assists many who ask for help. “Our church believes in helping people,” Pastor James Richardson Sr. said. But the church still holds onto the traditions it believes in, including Sunday school and Communion. The deacons noted some more modern churches have allowed those traditions to fall by the wayside. “We’re still doing the basic things we were taught,” Deacon Eugene Boone Jr. said. Richardson said the church, with God’s help, has survived because of the dedication of its members. “You have people coming here for years that have been very dedicated and faithful,” Richardson said. “There’s a lot of love in this church. This church has been through some struggles, but God allowed it to hang on.”
East End Baptist Church
1056 Portsmouth Blvd, Suffolk, VA 23434
Olive Branch Church
9364 Gates Rd, Suffolk, VA 23437
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Pleasant Grove Baptist Church
4481 Butler Drive, Suffolk, VA 23437
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Our church had its beginning in what was once Pleasant Grove Schoolhouse in 1879. Christian neighbors, friends, and others interested in the Baptist church stepped out on faith to erect a house of worship. In November 1879, Parliamentary procedures were utilized to help organize a Baptist church. The Church was named Pleasant Grove Baptist. Keeping focused on Christ Jesus, the building of the church began with Brother John P. Butler as the architect. The Rev. Nazareth Porter was chosen as moderator; thereafter, he became the first pastor.
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Corinth Chapel United Church of Christ
7945 Corinth Chapel Road, Suffolk, VA 23437
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St. Matthew Church
750 Dutch Road, Suffolk, VA 23437
Holy Christian Church
Holland Baptist Church
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Piney Grove Church
4901 Deer Path Road, Suffolk, VA
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Temple Beth’El,
Church of God and Saints of Christ
3927 Bridge Road, Suffolk, VA 23435
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Temple Beth El International Headquarters:
3927 Bridge Road, Suffolk, VA 23435 USA Multi-purpose facility erected November 1980. Sanctuary completed March 1987. |
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