Zion's History

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2008 Theme

Pursuing The Mind of Christ In Our Purpose, Passion & Potential.
Phil 2:5
I Cor. 9:2-16

ZION'S HISTORY

The historical roots of Zion Grove Missionary Baptist Church date back to 1921, when a church organized as Green Chapel was located on Third Street in Kansas City, Kansas, where Rev. L. C. Green was the pastor. In pursuit of a larger building, the church moved to the Missouri side to 604 Charlotte Street. After a few years, the names of a number of ministries were included in the pastorate of the newly organized church.

1938 marked the beginning of a new era for Zion Grove – the name as established in that year. At that time, the church was located in a converted storefront at 1623 E. 14^th Street under the leadership of Rev. F. C. Connery. Over time, a noticeable growth materialized and in 1946, a larger building was acquired at 14^thand Woodland Avenue. Services were held there for six years.

A groundbreaking was held at the new location, 1921 E. 12^th Street in March 1952. While the new facility was under construction, services were held at the UBF Hall, which was owned by one of the first deacons of the church, Robert McGee. Under the pastorate of Rev. Connery, the church grew both numerically and financially. Additions, improvements and many beautification projects were successfully completed. The membership increased from eight members to more than 600 during his tenure as pastor.

On May 24, 1964, Rev. A. L. Johnson, Sr. filled the void of Rev. Connery as he began his pastorate of Zion Grove. The years between 1964 and 1977 were record breaking in terms of growth, which necessitated the move to an even larger facility. On January 15, 1977, Rev. Johnson led the congregation in a massive parade to its present location at 2801 Swope Parkway. Throughout his 32-year pastorate, Rev. Johnson enjoyed a impressive career and achieved much in both the religious and civic community. He held many offices in the district, state and national conventions and congresses. He ended his pastoral leadership of Zion Grove through retirement on January 12, 1997 and continued to serve as pastor emeritus until he was called home to be with the Lord. Rev. Johnson is fondly remembered not only by the members of Zion Grove, but the religious and civic communities as well.

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