CHURCH HISTORY
Ebenezer Baptist Church of Cottage Hill
In 1869, according to the Church cornerstone, our Creator instilled in the late Pastor C. C. Kerry the inspiration to organize the original Ebenezer Baptist Church. This was four years after the Civil War had ended and all former slaves were set free. Prior to erecting the church’s first building, our forefathers worshiped under a brush arbor and in a log cabin on the southeastern section of our present property. A brush arbor is a rough open-sided shelter constructed of vertical poles driven into the ground. Additional long poles are laid across the top as support for a roof of brush, cut branches, or hay. The design was first introduced in the South by African Americans slaves as a meeting place and place of worship.
Ebenezer Baptist Church of Cottage Hill is the oldest African American Church in Cottage Hill. The scripture speaks of the name “EBENEZER” as a precious stone of help. In First Samuel 7:12, the Bible speaks of Samuel taking a stone and setting it between Mizpeh and Shen and called the name of it “EBENEZER.” The stone called EBENEZER refers to the Christ, who is a rock of deliverance, a very present help in time of need.
PASTORS: 1869 Pastor C. C. Kerry, 1901 Pastor G. W. Cephas, 1908 Pastor H. D. Parker, 1912 Pastor Noyes, 1913 Pastor C. Lindsey, 1927-1959 Pastor G. W. Lovett, Pastor R. W. Hughes, Pastor F. M. Raines, Pastor J. W. Weaver, Pastor C. A. Jackson, 1959 Pastor F. M. Campbell, 1971-1985 Pastor I. M. Perkins, and 1986 to the present, Pastor Rudolph Overstreet.
Pastors’ Accomplishments:
Pastor H. D. Parker - the following men served as deacons: William Decatur, Smith Dinkins, Ike Young Sr., Wilson Johnson Sr., Lee Johnson, Abe Coleman, William Burnson, Henry O’Cain Sr., Charlie Garmon, John Garmon, Levi Young Jr., Zack Logan Sr., and Zack Logan Jr.
Pastor C. Lindsey - the Shepherd in charge of the flock when a need for an institution for teaching “Colored Children” was recognized. An edifice was built on the west side of the original Ebenezer Baptist Church. Many of our members received a start in their education in that one room school building. Between 1923 and 1925, enrollment grew and there became an urgent need for more space. Accordingly, in conjunction with the Mobile County School Board, two buildings were moved onto the Church property.
Pastor G. W. Lovett – as sixth pastor Ebenezer was rebuilt in 1927 under his pastorate. Choir #1 was also organized during his tenure. From 1963 to 1965, Deacons Ike Young Sr. and Clarence O’Cain, both deceased, served faithfully in the position of President of Choir No. 1.
Pastor Campbell - the following served as Deacons: Jobe Logan, Willie Garmon, Lonnie Dinkins, Leslie Johnson, Horace Dinkins, Maurice Dinkins, Samuel Cooke, Jerome Cooke, Clinton Garmon Jr., Frank Logan Sr., and Ike Young Jr. A third Church building was erected in 1968 under the leadership of Pastor Campbell. It currently serves as our Education Building and Fellowship Hall.
The following served as Trustees during the tenure of Pastor Campbell: Frank Robinson, Samuel Scott, Jessie Robinson, Lee Dinkins Sr., Samuel O’Cain, Angelo O’Cain Jr., Herman Johnson, Joshua Garmon, Willie Thomas, Theresa Washington, L. Walker, R. Shadrick, J. Roberson, Randolph Young, Jerome Cooke, Bennie Moseley, Walter Parker Jr., and Eddie Wilson.
The first Gospel Chorus was organized and named in Pastor Campbell’s honor. The first baptismal pool was installed and the first public address system was purchased. Ebenezer was debt free upon the completion of those projects.
Pastor I. M. Perkins, the 12th pastor, served for 13 years (1972-1985). Under his leadership, an educational wing was added and the kitchen was renovated. Additional improvements included the purchase of a Hammond organ, choir robes for the Youth Choir, and cushions for the pews. The cushions were an anonymous gift. “The Birds of Promise,” a young children’s choir, was organized by Sister Margie Conner Jones, who served as pianist. Ben Edward Dinkins Sr. and Lee Dinkins Jr. were installed as deacons under the pastorate of Perkins. He resigned May 11, 1985 due to illness and died May 16, 1987.
During the early 1970's, the church was informed that the property where the school buildings were located was to be sold. The price for the property was too expensive, so an exchange of properties was made between Ebenezer Baptist Church and the Mobile County School Board. Consequently, Ebenezer was given property located on the North side of the present building.
Sister Doris Jones was elected as Church Clerk on June 28, 1984. Her tenure ended December 11, 2011. She served faithfully and meticulously in the position for 27 years.
Pastor Rudolph Overstreet - After eight months of fervent prayer, our current pastor, was elected February 1986 as the 13th pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church. He was the first full time pastor of the church.
During 1986 additional improvements were made to the edifice. They include renovation of the educational wing, kitchen, Pastor’s study, and attic, which was converted into office space. Central air and heating systems in the all-purpose room and kitchen were also part of the renovation. Once again, Ebenezer was blessed to be debt free at the completion of these projects. Later as the church thrived, the first Tape Ministry, Children’s Ministry, Prison Ministry, and “Outreach Program” were organized.
Deacons Woodrow Gibbs Jr., Robert Holmes, and Robert Tompkins united with Ebenezer and the Deacon Board in 1986, 1987, and 1988, respectfully. Deacon Jerry Harkins, deceased, was installed in 1988, and Deacon Lester Clark was added to the Deacon Board in 1989.
Accomplishments during the 1989-1990 years include: a six-foot fence around the cemetery, church billboard, and purchase of choir robes for the “Birds of Promise.” The Nurturing Baptist Churches (NBC), formally Baptist Training Union, was reorganized.
Deacon Jerry Harkins donated a van to the Church. In 1991, the Church was able to purchase a van. In 1994, ministering with children during worship service was started, and the back parking lot was paved. Deacons Robert Dial, Quincy Gooden, and Aaron Andry were added to the Deacon Board on April 10, 1994.
The Men’s Ministry and Women’s Ministry were initiated in 1997. The property, which was previously owned by Mobile County Public Schools, was deeded back to the Church through the efforts of Sister Allean Dinkins and Brother James Floyd on November 14, 1997.
During 1998 through 2000 the church membership continued to grow. As of October 2000, the roster included 37 members received for baptism, 43 by Christian experience, and 11 by letter, four under “Watch Care,” and two by restored membership. In 2001, there were 27 believers baptized. Nine were received by Christian experience, seven by letter, two under “Watch Care,” and two by restored membership. Another significant addition in 1999 was Sister Doris Rudolph who became Sunday School Superintendent.
In 2001, Edward O. Smith was added to the Deacon Board, Pastor Overstreet and Minister Malachi Johnson received Doctorate of Divinity Degrees, and two new Adult Sunday School Classes were organized. Minister Charlie Howze was assigned the Alpha Omega Class and Sister Gwendolyn Darty was chosen to teach the Adult IV Class.
Deacon Samuel Cooke Sr. was called from labor to reward on April 4, 2003. Ebenezer held the Ground Breaking Ceremony for the new Church sanctuary on April 27, 2003. Henry O’Cain, Ebenezer’s oldest Deacon, at the time, was also called from labor to reward on November 20, 2003. Newly ordained deacons included John Dean, Joshua Garmon, Keith Locke, Ben Dinkins Jr., and Howard Rudolph. Minister Robert Odom Jr. was ordained as a minister in 2004 and the position, Director of Christian Education, was established. Sister Doris Rudolph was named to that office.
More than 650 people marched into our new sanctuary on Sunday, October 17, 2004, at the 3:00 P.M. hour. This marked our 135th Year Anniversary and Dedication Service. Pastor David Frazier, of the Revelation Baptist Church, delivered our Dedicatory Message. Two people united with the church during the service, one for baptism and one through Christian experience.
The new sanctuary was ornamented with new pews, dais, and other furnishings. It also included a large mural depicting the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptizer as described in Matthew 3:13-17, Mark 1:9-12, Luke 3:21-22, and John 1:29-34. The mural was donated by Brother Jarvas L. Adams and family. It continues to be one of the more prominent graphics in the sanctuary.
The name of Ebenezer Boulevard was proposed as a change to the street presently known as Ebenezer Drive. Ebenezer received a donation of land located at the corner of Demetropolis Road South and Burma Road. Recognition was given to the contributor of the land during the program.
The Church Cornerstone was laid and a capsule placed in the cavity containing the following items: Bible of Deacon Clifton Garmon Sr., 2004 Church Anniversary Program, and church history. “The Cornerstone Ceremony” was officiated by the pastor, Dr. Rudolph Overstreet, and in the presence of Deacon Aaron Andry. The Cornerstone was sealed by John Manuel Masonry.
Richard Benjamin was added to the Deacon Board during June 2005. The 136th Year Anniversary sermon was delivered by the Sunlight District Moderator, Dr. J. J. Phillips of Mount Sinai Baptist Church of Whistler, Alabama. Thomas Roberts was added to the Deacon Board In 2006. The 137th Church Anniversary sermon was delivered by Pastor James Parrish of the Greater Nazaree Baptist Church.
Ebenezer Baptist Church became a member of the Mobile Baptist Association on October 18, 2007. ‘s oldest Deacon, Clifton Garmon Sr., was called from labor to reward on September 9, 2008. Minister Malachi Johnson was called from labor to reward on March 21, 2009.
The three-day revival was started in 2010. The sermons were delivered by Pastor Roy E. Powell of Cedar Street Baptist Church. The Children of Africa Concert was brought to Ebenezer in February 2010. On May 23, 2010, four new deacons were installed: Roderick Black, Sidney Carmichael, Bertram Flood, and James Floyd.
Prior to becoming a deacon, Brother Floyd had served as Chairman of the Ebenezer Baptist Church Trustee Board. However, in filling the vacuum, the Lord had a “Ram in the Bush.” It was in the person of Sister Edna Douglas. After having been vetted and confirmed by the congregation, she became the first woman to serve in this capacity at Ebenezer. Like Deborah in Judges 4:5, Sister Douglas brought a plethora of organizational experience to the position. Her professional acuity is cultivated by over thirty years of service as a hospital administrator for the University of South Alabama.
On October 17, 2010, Ebenezer celebrated the 141st Church Anniversary. The sermon was delivered by Pastor Marvin Langham of New Home Baptist Church.
Seminary School started in 2004 at Ebenezer Baptist Church. As a result of this opportunity, Deacon Richard Benjamin received a Master in Ministry and a Ph.D. in Religious Education. Minister Timothy Hall received a D.D. in Ministry in 2010, and Minister Arthur Foy received a D.D. in Ministry in 2011.
Sister Allean Dinkins, the church’s oldest member at age 97, was called from labor to reward May 17, 2011. October 16, 2011 Ebenezer celebrated the 142nd Church Anniversary. The sermon was delivered by Pastor Howard Johnson of True Vine Baptist Church.
George Nicholson was added to the Deacon Board in January, 2012. The church property was enclosed with a decorative metal fence around the current churchyard and cemetery in May, 2012. Minister Travis Kidd was ordained as a Minister on September 9th, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. at Ebenezer Baptist Church. Minister Glenn Clark presided over the ceremony.
The last installment on the mortgage on Ebenezer Baptist Church of Cottage Hill was made October 4, 2012.
The Ebenezer Baptist Church purchased a mini-bus to aid in weekly transport in April 2013. Ebenezer Baptist Church upgraded the electronic communication line between the main sanctuary and the education building in June 2013.
Dr. Joseph P. Laffiette II, Pastor of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church of Citronelle, preached the sermon at the 145th Church Anniversary.
Dr. Charles Bradley Sr., Pastor of Blooming Grove Missionary Baptist Church of Mobile, delivered the messages for the 2015 church revival.
Deacon Donald English, Deacon Charles King, and Deacon Larry Jackson were added to the Ebenezer Baptist Church Deacon Board on August 26, 2015. Each had served as deacons in their previous churches.
On January 3, 2016, five deacons were ordained: Deacon Donnie Austin, Deacon Lonnie Jackson, Deacon Jimmy knight, Deacon Clifton Moore, and Deacon Bernard Rogers.
After being called to the ministry, Deacon Keith Locke resigned from the Church Clerk’s position. Deacon Bernard Rogers was elected as Church Clerk on May 3, 2017.
A new bus was purchased on September 14, 2017. A new van was purchased on December 4, 2018 (Ford- Transit Connect). The older van was used as a trade.
After nearly two years of hard work and fervent prayers, a planning committee completed its work to develop a new Policy and Procedural Manual. Sister Alice Crenshaw served as the committee chair. The manual was adopted by the congregation on Wednesday, November 7, 2018, during an official business meeting. The Policy and Procedural Manual governs the business operations of the church.
In a follow up to the policy and procedure process, members elected four committees to facilitate its implementation on Wednesday, February 6, 2019. Sister Joyce Clausell chaired the election. The committees were for Church Council, Human Resources, Tellers, and Budget.
Throughout its illustrious history, our church has had a plethora of men from its ranks who have been called to preach the gospel. On Sunday, June 9, 2019, Dr. Richard Benjamin preached his first sermon at the 3:00 p.m. service. Dr. Benjamin was chairman of the deacon board at the time of his calling. he was ordained Sunday, September 22, 2019.
TRUSTEE BOARD Members of the Trustee Board are Sister Edna Douglas-Davis (Chairwoman), Brother Paul Clausell (Vice Chairman), Brother Alfred Dinkins, Dr. Jason Ford-Green, Brother Bill Hagler, Brother Clarence Hudson, Sister Julia Hudson, Sister Doris Jones, Sister Melanie Liddell, Brother Bennie Mosley, Brother Gabriel Peck, Sister Naomi Starks, Brother Demetri Tate, Sister Earnestine Tolbert, Brother Huttie Taylor, Brother John White, and Brother Paul Worthey. In addition, Brother Bill Hagler serves as Church Treasurer.
DEACON BOARD – Four new deacons were ordained Sunday, June 23, 2019. They were Deacon Cleo Brown, Deacon Marquis James, Deacon Larry Kim, and Deacon Alfred Pettaway. Also during the ordination ceremony, Deacon Thomas Roberts was reinstated as deacon. At the time of their installation, they joined Deacon Aaron Andry (Chairman), Deacon Ben Dinkins Sr., Deacon Ben Dinkins Jr., Deacon Lee Dinkins Jr., Deacon Donald English, Deacon James Floyd, Deacon Larry Jackson, Deacon Lonnie Jackson, Deacon Charles King (Secretary), Deacon Jimmy Knight, Deacon Clifton Moore, Deacon George Nicholson, Deacon Bernard Rogers (Assistant Chairman), and Deacon Howard Rudolph. The additions brought the total number of deacons to 19.
Following a lengthy illness, Deacon John Dean made his natural transition on Tuesday, August 27, 2019, at the age of 95. Ordained in 2004, he served 15 years with distinction and epitomized a beam of light in the midst of a tempest.
On Sunday, October 6, 2019, we were blessed with a performance by national recording gospel artist, Kelontae Gavin, best known for his gospel radio single, “No Ordinary Worship.”
In January of 2020, there was a new air borne illness making waves around the world. It became known as the COVID 19 or Coronaviruses. Consequently, the World Health Organization declared a worldwide pandemic.
As major sports leagues declared shutdowns in Mid-March of 2020 to combat the virus, the U.S. economy did the same. It was a period of severe adversity for many. A plethora of businesses closed to never reopen following the shutdown.
Like businesses and public spaces, Ebenezer Baptist Church of Cottage Hill was not immune. The decision was made to cease having regular worship services.
New initiatives included the Pastor’s weekly sermon aired on Social Media known as YouTube, radio broadcast of the Sunday sermon, Zoom Sunday School Classes, Zoom Wednesday Night Bible Study, Thursday Night Sweet Hour of Prayer facilitated by Conference Call, and member tithes and offerings collected by deacons at the rear of the church on the outside each Sunday. In addition, members were encouraged to pick up communion on First Sundays at the rear of the church. Commonly known as the Lord’s Supper, it was distributed by Ebenezer deacons.
On October 17, 2020, and again on March 21, 2021, Pastor Rudolph Overstreet broached the re-opening of the church. Each Ebenezer household received their communications by U.S. Mail. He stated, “Our church leadership has monitored the COVID 19 cases since the beginning, and there appears to be a reduction in cases in Mobile. With the current trend, we have an opportunity for opening the doors of Ebenezer. However, we must continue to wear masks, practice social distancing, wash hands, and follow the CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within our congregation.” A contingency plan developed to open the church according to the CDC was announced. Measures were also taken to ensure the sanctuary was prepared for worship service that included a deep cleaning following each service.
The first post COVID 19 worship service was held Sunday, November 8, 2020. Our Pastor reiterated that some will not be comfortable returning to the sanctuary, but encourage all members to do what is best for them.
By December 2020, US officials announced that the first doses of the FDA authorized Pfizer vaccine “had been developed and delivered to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.” The Moderna and Johnson and Johnson Vaccines quickly followed. As a result, many were vaccinated. Some were skeptical and chose not to be vaccinated. However, all Ebenezer members had to wear masks, practice social distancing within the pews, sign in on a roster to ensure contact tracing, and have their temperatures checked prior to entering the sanctuary.
The first Post COVID Business Meeting was held April 20, 2022. Brother J. Malcolm Jackson was added to the deacon board. Rev., Dr. Timothy Hall was elected to serve as Senior Associate Pastor.
Deaths during the COVID period totaled 36. We had 37 new members to join by Christian Experience or baptism during this period as well.
During the Second Quarterly Business Meeting held July 27, 2022, Brother Jason Ford-Green was added to the Trustee Board. In the same meeting, approval was given to replace the Audio/Video system throughout the church. A new system manufactured in accordance with 21st Century technology and standards was installed during the summer of 2023.
Brother Bennie Mosley and Sister Melanie Liddell were confirmed as Trustees on November 2, 2023.
After having resigned as Deacon and Church Clerk on February 8, 2023, Brother Bernard Rogers was re-elected clerk to a new three-year term on July 19, 2023. In addition, Sister Loretta Reese was elected to become the Financial Secretary following the resignation of Brother Clarence Hudson. Brother Hudson served with distinction for 21 years.
God has blessed us to celebrate our 154th Church Anniversary on Sunday, October 15, 2023.
When we reflect on our history, Ebenezer Baptist Church of Cottage Hill continues to be blessed with vibrant ministries and a robust membership. In addition, we are an active partner with the Cottage Hill Community, City of Mobile, and Mobile Baptist Association. Our ultimate goals are to advance spiritual growth and be an advocate for civic causes germane to winning souls for Christ.
In closing, we do not take the definition of Ebenezer (Stone of Help) lightly. Although we were not present at the origin, we have each had enough experience to know that it was unfailing help that brought us this far. We realize that all of our help comes from the Master Builder, and we are cognizant that, if we are to attain higher heights, it will be because of His indescribable help. For the Lord has been our dwelling place throughout all generations. He is our refuge and strength and very present help in the time of trouble.
