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MBCD's Historical Timeline

Macedonia Baptist Church Denver (MBCD) has faithfully served Denver for 106+ years. The church is dedicated to its motto of "Making the Word Flesh". As such, it feeds, clothes, and houses the needy. MBCD is also instrumental in helping to advance quality of life and equality--not only in its congregation--but, also in the US, the African diaspora, and worldwide.

1 Peter 5:1-3, To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve

VLane

Rev. Dr. Victor-LaMonte Lane, 2013-2022

Major Accomplishments:

2015: the church adopted the mission statement “the church where the word is made flesh”.
Updated buildings and sanctuary.
2017: led our 100th Anniversary: “An Open Door which no one can shut”.
COVID-pandemic years, 2020-2022: Despite mandated government shutdowns, Rev. Lane kept Macedonia's doors open during the pandemic. He also streamed live weekly service via YouTube.
Keeping our doors open is a highlight of Pastor Lane’s legacy. Many churches that closed for COVID never reopened.
2022: Pastor Lane resigned.

Interim

Interim and Supply Pastors

Pastors:

2023- Rev. Tracy Smith currently serving as interim minister.
2012-2013: Rev. Rodney G Perry Sr. served as supply minister.
2010-2012: Rev. Dwayne Moore assumed the position of Sr. Associate Minister.
2007-2010: Rev. Willard C Johnson was elected and served as interim pastor.
1923-1948: Five temporary pastors.

PMartin

Rev. Dr. Paul M. Martin, 1990-2007

Major Accomplishments: Led MBCD to the forefront of history redeeming our community.

Purchased a 4plex apartment building for senior tenants. The 4plex is called Katie Cutler Manor.
Created the Edna Fontanella Wells Historical Society: named in honor of Mrs. Wells, the oldest charter until her homegoing in 1997.
Participated in Habitat for Humanity.
Created a scholarship for deserving students.
2007: Rev. Dr. Martin retired as senior pastor.

Rev. Dr. Paul M. Martin

JMorris

Rev. John B. Morris, 1969-1988

Rev. John B. Morris

Major Accomplishments:

1969: Rev. John B Morris became the Sr. Pastor. Under his leadership several ministries were implemented
1979: Led a spirit-filled service to celebrate the liquidation of the church mortgage: four years ahead of schedule.
January 15, 1981: Hosts the city of Denver's first celebration of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday. The event, which began at MBCD, included a march, rally, and parade.
1988: Rev. Morris passed away seven years later.

J. Griffn

Rev. Joseph L. Griffin, 1954-1968

Major Accomplishments: Led the church in purchasing current location. Fought for Civil Rights.

Purchased the current sanctuary at 3240 Adams St., for $100,000 less than the appraised price.
March 3, 1963, a snowy Sunday morning, we marched to our new home at 3240 Adams St. Our current location is certified and listed in the National Registry of Historic Places.
Networked with and hosted panels by prominent Civil Rights activist to advance the rights of Black people.

Rev. Joseph L. Griffin

AGKendrick

Rev. A.G. Kendrick, 1949-1954

Rev. A.G. Kendrick

Major Accomplishments:

Led congregation in paying off church mortgage.
Renovated church.
Purchased parsonage.

CAMiller

Rev. C.A. Miller, 1917-1922

Major Accomplishments: Organized and founded church.

1917: Reverend C.A. Miller organized Baptist Mission Church.
Later, the church was renamed, Macedonia Baptist Church.
1922: Reverend Miller resigned.