
Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.
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Rev. Calvert then rented two stores across the street from the building at 13012 and 130l6 Kinsman. He knocked out the partition between the two stores and converted them into a church where they worship for another three years. After moving into the storefront, most of the members left; but with more faith, more courage and determination to carry on then ever, Rev. Calvert slowly built up another membership with his wife and children, and the Louis Woodard family by his side. When the rent was raised to $90.00, Rev. Calvert found another place to worship which was a double garage located on East 143rd Street near Bartlett. In August, 1949 the church moved into the garage. Even in the garage, with many sincere prayers to God for help and guidance, the membership continued to grow. While in the garage the initial funds were raised to purchased the lot at this present site, 13009 Kinsman. For $2500.00. After the lot was paid in full, the Pastor called another meeting and suggested that they start building a church immediately. The clerk of the church read the minutes, it was noted that there was only $1.96 in the treasure. Rev. Calvert said to his member "All I want you to do is to give me full charge of building this church." Many of them did not agree because they thought he was very unwise to attempt to build a church with only $1.96 in treasure. It was voted upon and the majority voted in favor of Rev. Calvert. Most of the members who did not agree asked for their letters and left the church. God gave him more faith and courage to go on, for he knew that nothing was too hard for God and that He would continue to stand by him and direct him. He strongly believed "With God all Things Are Possible." Soon after, those that were left, had the Ground-Breaking Ceremony and the basement excavated. There was a large hole in the ground which the people in the neighborhood began to complain to City Hall about. A policemen was sent out to talk to Rev. Calvert and to give him ten days to fill the hole up. After the ten days had expired, the City sent men out to fill up the hole. God works in mysterious ways, His wonders to perform. The same day the men came out to fill the basement up. Rev. Calvert had men down there laying the foundation. After the walls in the basement were blocked, Rev. Calvert got permission from City Hall to have one week’s services in the basement. It did not have a top and the church rented a tent top to have services throughout the week. Later a roof, partition and boarded floors were added which allowed them to worship for a long while - even without sewage. The members continued to believe that God was on their side. Services continued in half of the basement for approximately a year and a half. While in the basement, the entire front of the church and vestibule along with the restroom facilities were added. CLICK THE YEARS BELOW TO SEE MORE |
The Christian Counter
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MT Pleasant Baptist Church · 13009 Kinsman Ave · Cleveland, Ohio 44120 · 216-751-2681 |
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