At Olivet Missionary Baptist Church, we are a family of faith committed to loving God, loving one another, and reaching out to serve our community. Whether you are new to church, returning after some time away, or simply looking for a place to grow, we’re glad you’re here.

Our Mission

Olivet Missionary Baptist Church’s Mission is to bring glory to God through Christian growth and unity in the body of Christ. In recognition of this mission, our commitments are to exalt God through our Christ-like character; to educate believers through Biblical teachings; to evangelize non-believers through faithful witness; and to encourage Godliness through a positive presence in our Church and community. We are united in one Baptism, one Lord’s Supper, and one Spirit which furnishes the whole body with faith, peace, hope, and love. We share in the power of Christ’s resurrection and the promised redemption.

Our History

Olivet Missionary Baptist Church began as a Bible study group called "the Mission" in a storefront at 1811 1/2 Cedar Street and was named I John Baptist Church in 1901, with Reverend Richard Whiteside as its first pastor. In 1927, under Minister J. W. Pitts, it merged with Friendship Baptist Church to form Olivet Missionary Baptist Church, with Reverend W. O. Moore as the first pastor.

Reverend Thomas E. Parks succeeded Moore in 1929, expanding the church’s membership significantly and establishing programs like Sunday School. Despite challenges during the Great Depression, Olivet thrived and organized its first Sunday School Parade in 1933. After Reverend Parks passed, Reverend Robert E. Holt took over and led further growth, including plans for a new church building.

In the late 1950s, the church celebrated its new building’s completion on October 20, 1957, and strengthened ties with Mount Moriah Baptist Church in Indianapolis. Under Reverend John T. Easley Sr., Olivet became known as a "Gospel Powerhouse," with increased youth involvement. Reverend James T. Trotter and Reverend Grady Cooks continued the church's growth, followed by Reverend Alvin C. Bernstine, who established the Whiteside-Parks Family Life Enrichment Center.

Reverend Michael L. Cousin Sr. has led since March 1995, enhancing outreach initiatives. Minister Addie G. Holt became the first female assistant pastor, initiating a feeding program before her passing in 1998. A tornado in April 1998 triggered renovations for youth support.

Olivet celebrated its 76th Homecoming and 101st anniversary in October 2002, later relocating from its historic building on May 29, 2009, to 144 Ewing Drive, continuing its commitment to serve the Nashville community.