Minister Michael G. Cleveland, Jr. a St. Louis native, Minister Cleveland received the Lord into his heart at the age of thirteen. From that moment began a life filled with God-ordained moments. After graduating from Parkway North High School, he attended Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. For the past twenty-six years, Minister Cleveland was employed with the American Red Cross, working his way up from part-time maintenance man to Lab Supervisor. The characteristics of perseverance and tenacity epitomized in his secular work life would be highly instrumental in his spiritual life.
TRINTIY MT. CARMEL BAPTIST CHURCH HISTORY
EST. 1919
Minister Clevland was named pastor after Pastor Roach Passed.
Membership continues to grow, approximately 1500 Parking on the campus becomes an issue.
Purchase of new property which will serve as a worship center for TMC youth Sunday services and a community center Improvements to the Sanctuary, Vestibule and Classrooms are completed.
Memberships rapid growth exceeds seating capacity 8:00 am worship service begins.
Relation considered to 11755 Mehl Ave, Florissant, MO (05/05)Purchased property, 11755 Mehl Ave (09/16/05)Congregation moved into 11755 Mehl Ave (10/09/05)Grand Opening Day Celebration (11/20/05)
Plans are underway to expand Prairie Ave location with Grice Group as the architect
Church experiences rapid membership growth that exceeds seating capacity. The membership consists of lay individuals to upper middle class (Executives, Accountants, Brokers, Principals, Teachers, Nurses, Social Workers, Etc.)
With Pastor Roachs gentle nudge, a can do spirit and a searing vision, he led the flock out of our comfort zone. In August, 1996 God blessed Trinity with a new sanctuary addition and renovated fellowship facility. This was only the beginning of many areas of growth the laid ahead.
Executed an aggressive fund raising drive to rebuild church. Income increased 100%.
On January 15, 1990, Trinity was blessed again. This was the installation of a God-sent, God-directed pastor, Min. Charles M. Roach, a multi-faceted leader. He came equipped with a serious determination to pattern his ministry after the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ. Pastor Roach continues to lead many souls to Jesus.
Church structure damaged by fire and condemned
Elected new pastor Significant improvements to 1819 N. Prairie building
In December of 1979, God sent Min. Richard A. Martin. He completed his worthy commission of making the Word of God the main focus of Trinity, teaching of the “word upon wordâ€, “line upon line†and “precept upon preceptâ€. The church grew physically, financially and most importantly spiritually. To carry out the mission of spreading the “Good Newsâ€, a radio ministry was established. Pastor Martin’s exemplary teaching moved the church forward in our commitment of making Christ’s way, our way.
Pastor West left as the pastor and Min. George Crawford was the pulpit supplier. During this time the church was vandalized and a portion of the building was destroyed by fire. As always in rough times, the members worked together and service was held in various locations until the sanctuary was renovated. Min. Crawford was officially elected as the pastor on November 16, 1977. He served in this capacity until his death in August, 1979.
Period of largest membership under Rev. Monroe’s leadership
Mortgage paid in full
By prayer and the hard work of the congregation, a building was purchased at 1115 N. 22nd street. Later, the City of St. Louis purchased this property in 1953. Along with member’s loans and physical labor, Trinity Mt. Carmel moved to 1819 N. Prairie in August of 1954.
Moved to 1115 N. 22nd St.
In 1936 Pastor Coleman passed and a young 34 year old Min. Monroe West became the pastor. Again, due to the Depression, times were very hard and the membership had declined when Pastor West began his pastorate. The mortgage was just barely being paid. The circumstances inspired Pastor West’s first sermon, “Come Let Us Build up the Wallsâ€.
Elected new pastor: Moved to 22nd St. and Cole Ave.; Moved to 23rd and Carr Ave. Rev. L.C. Coleman
In 1921 the church relocated to 2220 Morgan Street, now known as Delmar Boulevard. Min. W.R. Critz was the Pastor and the church merged with Trinity and Lily of the Valley Baptist Church. The new name of the church became Trinity Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church.
The churchs name was originally Mt Carmel Baptist Church, organized by Watta Robinson in 1919. There were only a few members and service was held at the home of Bro. Allen at 22nd and Washington. Over time, Minister Robinson held a series of revivals and because many accepted Jesus Christ, the congregation continuously grew. Min. Robinson was the pastor until he left St. Louis.
Elected new pastors: Rev. John Lewis; Rev. Swell; Rev. Burt Please (pulpit supplier)