In 1946, the Reverend Norman Mitchell, desiring to have a place of worship for the small community in which he lived, organized the Mount Nebo Missionary Baptist Church. With the assistance of a small group of people, Reverend Mitchell purchased a lot in Southeast Raleigh, and through their dedication and perseverance, construction began on the new church just one year later. Often times one would drive by the site and see Reverend Mitchell adding cinder blocks to the “DREAM” that would soon be Mount Nebo.

Upon its completion in October 1947, the building was dedicated. The Reverend Mitchell was installed as pastor and the church officially opened its doors as Mount Nebo Missionary Baptist Church. The following persons joined the new fellowship: James Frierson, Mittie Frierson, Alice Mitchell, Mallie Banks, Fran Dunn, and Norman Mitchell.

The new church experienced regular growth in membership until 1973 when a passing motorist lost control of his automobile and severely damaged the edifice. With no place to worship, most of Mount Nebo’s membership united with other local churches. The faithful few who remained were overwhelmed searching for a place to worship. Also, during this period, the pastor reluctantly retired when he became critically ill. He was succeeded by the Reverend George Mitchell (of no relation to the organizer). Still the search continued. Then in August 1976, a group of supporters from the former church membership purchased property at 1130 North Blount Street. The church was reorganized and a new name declared—HALIFAX MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH.

The church began to experience renewed growth. Members who had united with other fellowships during the transitional period reunited with the newly organized Halifax Missionary Baptist Church. Unfortunately, the Reverend George Mitchell became ill during this period and reluctantly relinquished his position at the church. His successor, the Reverend Sterling Burt, served as pastor for six years.

Faced with another overwhelming task, several members were appointed to seek out a Shepherd to lead the growing flock at Halifax. God’s plan began to unfold. In 1982, while attending the First Cosmopolitan Baptist Church in Raleigh, a young man was informed of the need and the potential for a Pastor at Halifax Missionary Baptist Church. This “Man of God,” accompanied by a friend, made a visit to the church one Sunday after morning service to introduce himself to the Deacons and church leaders. In December, an appointment was set up for him to deliver a sermon at the church. In the month of February 1983, that most successful sermon culminated into the congregation’s vote for the Reverend James Vincent Terry as the new Pastor of Halifax Missionary Baptist Church. He was just 19 years of age! Young Pastor Terry, a native of Rockingham, North Carolina, was active in many areas of church life in Rockingham: He was Student Minister of Providence Baptist Church in Rockingham, NC; Associate Minister of Poplar Springs Baptist Church in Rockingham, NC; President of the Youth Department of the Pee Dee Association; and has been guest speaker at numerous functions.

In 1996 the church purchased property valued at $300,000.00 (tax value). In 1997 the membership voted to change the name of the church from Halifax Missionary Baptist Church to MOUNT PEACE BAPTIST CHURCH. On June 5, 1999, the Lord blessed us to break ground for Phase I of the construction of our new worship facility. The church membership watched as well as prayed as the “Vision” began to develop into reality. On February 6, 2000 we moved into our new facility. We have since purchased another building and other properties whereas the little white church on the dirt road is now the church in the heart of the community with total assets over $6,000,000.00. This is truly a testimony that little becomes much when you place it in the hands of the Lord.

In these years under Pastor Terry’s guidance, Mount Peace Baptist Church has experienced significant growth. Church membership has increased from 50 members to more than 2500 members and Sunday worship attendance has increased from 25 people to almost 1500 people. Through stewardship and tithing, the annual financial statement has increased from less than $6,000.00 annually to over $2,000,000.00 annually. Member participation has increased notably in the church choirs, mission activities and Mid-Week Worship Service. In addition, a Youth Ministry and several new auxiliaries have been established during his pastorate. Pastor Terry revealed to the congregation that he had a “Vision” from the Lord to direct our bark. One important part of the “Vision” was the complete renovation of the little wooden framed church at the end of the unpaved street. This renovation included a new brick facade, the remodeling of the church’s sanctuary, the Pastor’s study, the creation of a classroom, the church office & the complete modernization of the Fellowship Hall & the facilities.

God is still unfolding the “Vision” to Pastor Terry who is gently guiding us as we grow in grace and in the knowledge of God. For this, and much more, all of the thanks, all of the praise and all of the glory is given to our God!