5 Unforgettable Facts About Mt. Pisgah MB Church (The ROCK) And Its 160-Year Legacy
The Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church, often referred to as "The ROCK," is not just a place of worship; it is a living monument to history and resilience, especially within the Dallas County, Texas community. As of the current date, December 23, 2025, the most significant and recent information centers on the church's monumental 160th Anniversary celebration, which took place in June 2024, cementing its status as one of the oldest and most impactful African American institutions in the region. This deep dive into the church’s legacy uncovers the people, the milestones, and the enduring faith that continues to shape its future.
The name "Mt. Pisgah MB Church" is shared by several prominent congregations across the United States, including a vibrant community in Memphis, Tennessee, led by Rev. F. J. Harris, Sr. However, the Richardson, Texas, congregation—formally the Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church (The ROCK)—stands out for its deep, documented history dating back to the Civil War era, a history that continues to generate fresh news and community focus today.
The Guiding Light: A Profile of Pastor S. Michael Greene
The current leadership of the historic Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church (The ROCK) is entrusted to Pastor S. Michael Greene, a devoted spiritual leader whose mission is to honor the church's past while aggressively pursuing its future. His tenure is marked by a focus on community engagement, spiritual growth, and celebrating the church's profound historical roots. Pastor Greene is not only a devoted husband and father but is also recognized as a passionate preacher and Bible teacher.
- Name: Pastor S. Michael Greene
- Current Role: Pastor, Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church (The ROCK)
- Location: Richardson, Texas (Dallas County)
- Mission: To inspire people of all ages to develop a deep love for God and to serve the community through intentional ministry.
- Focus: Leading the church through a period of growth and historical recognition, including the recent 160th Anniversary.
- Background: His passion for ministry was nurtured through years of serving and leading God's people, equipping him to impact lives within the Richardson and greater Dallas area.
5 Fascinating Facts That Define Mt. Pisgah MB Church’s Historic Legacy
The Richardson, TX, congregation, known as The ROCK, has a history that is both profound and rare. Its longevity and foundational role in the community make it a subject of continuous interest, especially as its milestones—like the 160th anniversary—are reached.
1. It is One of Dallas County's Oldest African American Churches
The Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church traces its roots back to June 1864. This founding date is critical, as it places the church’s origin during the American Civil War, specifically before the official end of the war and the emancipation of enslaved people in Texas (Juneteenth in 1865).
The church was founded by a small group of formerly enslaved individuals seeking a place for spiritual freedom and community. Its 160-year span (celebrated in June 2024) makes it one of the oldest African American churches in Dallas County, a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of its founders and subsequent generations.
2. The Church Recently Celebrated Its 160th Anniversary in 2024
A major, fresh update for the congregation was the celebration of its 160th Church Anniversary on Sunday, June 16, 2024. This milestone is a rare achievement for any institution, particularly one with such deep historical roots in the South. The anniversary theme often centers on the concept of "The ROCK," symbolizing the church's unshakeable foundation in faith. Pastor S. Michael Greene expressed his privilege in serving a church with such a rich history and being part of its next chapter.
The celebration was a significant community event, highlighting the church's continuous service and ministry since 1864. This type of longevity is a powerful demonstration of the Missionary Baptist principles of community outreach, evangelism, and sustained worship.
3. It Has Been Officially Recognized with a Texas Historical Marker
The historical significance of Mt. Pisgah has been formally recognized by the state of Texas. In 2020, the church received a Texas Historical Marker. This designation is reserved for sites that have made a significant contribution to the history of Texas. The marker serves as a permanent, public reminder of the church's foundational role in the region's cultural and spiritual landscape, further solidifying its status as a vital historical entity.
4. The Church’s Ministries Focus Heavily on Education and Youth Development
Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church (The ROCK) is deeply committed to community service, which is a core tenet of the Missionary Baptist tradition. One of its notable efforts is the Scholarship Ministry.
This ministry was specifically formed to provide scholarships for deserving high school students within the congregation and the wider community. This focus on education and youth development demonstrates the church's commitment to building a legacy that extends beyond the walls of the sanctuary, directly impacting the future success of its members.
5. The Name 'Mt. Pisgah' Connects Multiple Prominent Baptist Congregations
While the Dallas/Richardson church holds a unique historical distinction, the name "Mt. Pisgah MB Church" is also associated with other major, active congregations, emphasizing the shared spiritual journey across the US.
For instance, the Mount Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee, is a vibrant community led by Rev. F. J. Harris, Sr., and Lady Joyce Harris. This Memphis church, located on Weaver Road, is a key institution in the Whitehaven District Association and continues to lead people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ through its active ministries and regular services. The shared name often references the biblical Mount Pisgah, from which Moses viewed the Promised Land, symbolizing a vision of hope and a destination of faith.
The Enduring Impact of Missionary Baptist Churches
The story of Mt. Pisgah MB Church—both The ROCK in Texas and the congregation in Memphis—is a microcosm of the larger Missionary Baptist movement. These churches are defined by their commitment to a few core principles that have allowed them to thrive for centuries:
- Evangelism and Missions: The "Missionary" in the name signifies a core dedication to spreading the Gospel both locally and globally.
- Community Activism: Historically, churches like Mt. Pisgah were not just spiritual centers but also hubs for civil rights, education, and social justice, which is reflected in their current scholarship and outreach ministries.
- Autonomy: Each Missionary Baptist church is self-governing, allowing it to be highly responsive to the specific needs of its immediate community.
As Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church (The ROCK) moves past its 160th anniversary, its rich history serves as a powerful foundation. Under the leadership of Pastor S. Michael Greene, the church continues to embody the spirit of resilience, community service, and enduring faith that has defined it since its founding in 1864. The recent milestones and ongoing ministries ensure that this historic institution remains a vital and relevant force in the Dallas County area for generations to come.
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