View From Mt. Nebo

“And Moses went up from the plains of Moab unto the mountain of Nebo,
to the top of Pisgah, that is over against Jericho.”
- Deuteronomy 34:1

The View
From Mt. Nebo
A History of Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist Church
Nashville, Tennessee
Princess Gordon-Patton, Editor

© Copyright 2013.
Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist Church
Nashville, Tennessee
All Rights Reserved. Written permission must be secured from the publisher to use
or reproduce any part of this book, except for brief quotations in critical reviews or
articles, or for educational purposes.
P.O. Box 23377 • Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615-320-7242
Email: mtnebochurch@comcast.net
Website: www.mountnebobaptistchurch.org

Table of Contents
Dedication 4
A Word From the Editor 5
A Word From the Church Historian 6
Foreword/About Our Pastor 7
About Our Founder 8
History of Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist Church 9
Gallery of Former Pastors 19
Pastoral Lineage 20
Ministers — Past and Present 21
Church Ministries 22
Inspirations From the Past 36 & Inside Back
Mission Statement
“To manifest the Lord Jesus Christ in our lives individually
and collectively, and seek to bring others into a personal
dynamic relationship with Him by ministering
to the whole man.”

Mother Josephine Martin Russell was an
active member of Mt. Nebo Baptist Church
for over 60 years. Soon after moving to Nash-
ville, she joined Mt. Nebo in 1949, under the pas-
torate of Reverend C.C. Bass. Over the years she
served in many roles and ministries, including the
Missionary Union, Baptist Young Peoples Union,
Choir, Circle #4, Sunday School, Bible Study, and
Deaconess Board. Mother Russell loved the Lord,
studied the Word, and kept her Bible close at
hand. The Bible was her reference for how to live
her life in a manner that was pleasing to God.
She was known for offering kind words and
encouragements to all members of her church
family. Because of the way she chose to live her
life, she touched and influenced and brought joy
to the lives of so many. She loved Mt. Nebo and
she was a very faithful, devoted member until her
demise in June 2009, at the age of 93.
In her younger adult years, not having a car,
she walked to Mt. Nebo from her home on 16th
Avenue North, for church meetings and choir
practice. Often, she would be accompanied by her
children; but sometimes she would just walk alone
in order to be there on time. After she learned to
drive a car, she made it a point to attend as many
services and events at the church as she could.
Mt. Nebo was the center of her social and spiritual
life.
You could count on her being at Mt. Nebo if
there was any activity going on (Weddings, Con-
ferences, Bible Study, Sunday School, children’s
programs, etc.). She also loved visiting other
churches and attending conventions with her Mt.
Nebo family. She often reminisced fondly about
her friendships, experiences and the wonderful
fellowship she enjoyed as a member of Mt. Nebo.
She also enjoyed hearing and sharing stories
about the "old church" and its members, Pastors,
and past events. She wanted to keep the church
alive in our hearts and not forget our past. She
wanted the "younger" members to know how the
church had progressed over the years and about all
the changes that had taken place. She wanted the
church history to be told and preserved - of our
failures, and, by the Grace of God, our successes.
She would say, "God is Faithful and He will
guide the church through any circumstance, so,
we must remain obedient and patient.” She had
unwavering Faith and Trust in God.
At Mother Russell's death, her children Rega,
Edwina and David agreed that, in lieu of flowers,
all donations would be given to the Mt. Nebo His-
torical Committee as a contribution to the writing
of Mt. Nebo's history. Her children contributed
$1,500 to the underwriting of this book.
Mother Josephine Russell
Dedication
4

It was 1971 when I first
arrived at Mt. Nebo Mis-
sionary Baptist Church. I
was a 17-year-old senior in
high school. My father, Dr.
Gill H. Gordon, Sr., had
accepted the call to become
pastor of this historic
church. That year marked
the 100th-year of this con-
gregation, and we arrived in
time to become a part of the
Centennial Celebration.
Little did I know that five
years later, during the construction of the new sanctuary and
educational facility that my father would first charge me with
collaborating with the church’s history keepers to develop a
written record of this church. The promise was set aside along
the way as life played out its many scenarios; but a year ago I
heard a voice that put me firmly back on track. With encourage-
ment from Pastor Bryson and the members of the Historical
Committee, I was able to focus on the immediacy of compiling
the history of this great congregation.
None of us know what tomorrow will bring, but here in this vol-
ume we have put our best efforts together to provide future gen-
erations with as accurate a record as possible of who we are as a
people and from whence we have come. As I followed the trails
that were left for me to follow, I learned many lessons along the
way. The most important was that history does not change; it is
merely enhanced. Stories from the past that we held on to so
tightly were recorded in different places, and with each twist and
turn the story unfolded with greater clarity.
The document that you have before you now is the culmination
of the efforts of many individuals who have labored at Mt. Nebo
during its 142-year history. I could not have compiled this work
without their help, so I pause and give thanks to God and to the
Saints, both living and those who have gone from earth to glory,
for making this project such a labor of love.
I’ve always believed that we need not reinvent the wheel, but
rather build upon what is already good and noble. So, it is with
this in mind that I chose to keep the format of this historical ac-
count as a chronological record as designed by Mrs. Davie Della
Phillips, who was the keeper of Mt. Nebo history for many years
and chairperson of the 1971 Historical Committee.
Special thanks goes to the photographers as well who have
helped record our special moments over the years: Nimrod May-
berry (deceased), Tanuverne Ligon, Melvin Motley and Theo
Bryson. And to all those whose names have been overlooked,
God knows and in the end, it is He who will say, “Well Done.” I
also dedicate this effort to Our Almighty God, the 1971 Centen-
nial Committee, the Mt. Nebo Historical Committee and to my
parents:
Dr. Gill H. Gordon, Sr.
My Rock.
Mrs. Mary Frances Corder Gordon
An angel who left us too soon.
Mrs. Mary Jane Smith Gordon
For the influence she has had on this congregation in the more
than 60 years she has devoted to ministry here at Mt. Nebo, for
being my mother for more than 30 years, and a shining example
of what it means to be a Christian.
To God Be the Glory,
Princess Elizabeth Gordon-Patton
A Word From the Editor
5
Centennial Anniversary Committee 1971
Seated: Ada Walker, Davie Della Phillips (Chairperson), Bernice Al-
derson, Clara Wynn, Helen Allison, Deacon C.D. Laster.
Standing: Cleora Kellar, Edith Moss, Patricia Thomas, Esther Mays,
Hattie Birse, and Warren Lawson.
Not pictured: A.G. Thomas, Sr., Margaret Wester, and M.D. Smith

At the time of the printing of this historical rec-
ord, we are celebrating 142 years of the found-
ing and history of the Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist
Church. We have come this far by faith, trusting in
the Lord! I extend sincere thanks to all members
who share in this occasion. I give thanks to our pas-
tor, Dr. Theodore H. Bryson, Sr., for his support
and encouragement, patience and excitement about
our book; and to our editor, Princess Gordon-
Patton, for her long hours of research, countless
drafts, and the writing of this manuscript.
Many thanks to the late Mother Josephine Russell
and her children, for their contribution to the Histor-
ical Committee for the publishing of the Mt. Nebo
history book, the various ministries of the church,
families, friends, youth, seniors and everyone who
participated by the giving of your time and talents
in making our history a reality.
We cannot forget those who are no longer with us
for their guidance and prayers. I thank God for af-
fording me the opportunity to glorify Him and His
work as Historian Chairperson of Mt. Nebo Mis-
sionary Baptist Church. We have a rich history, and
it is an honor to pay respect to the history you have
made and to share this knowledge with others.
Compiling this history
of Mt. Nebo has been
fascinating to us. We
have researched for
many years and treated
our sources with integ-
rity, recording facts
and quotations as accu-
rately as possible.
We thank God for
blessing us, and for
giving us an opportuni-
ty to get closer to our
members, friends, and
other associates. Our
prayer is that the History of Mt. Nebo Missionary
Baptist Church comes alive for you as it has for the
members of this committee.
“The Best is Yet to Come!”
May God continue to bless you!
Vivian Ray, Historian Chairperson
6
A Word From the Church Historian
Vivian Eaton Ray

By the grace of God Mt. Nebo Baptist Church in 2013 will celebrate
being in existence for 142 years at the corner of 25th
Avenue, N. and
Clifton Avenue This is a testimony to the faithfulness of God.
Over the years the structure of the building has changed, but one thing has
not, the desire of the membership to be a blessing to the community.
It is our hope and prayer that we have touched and still are touching the
lives of individuals who live in the community and beyond. While several
congregations have relocated to outlying areas, we still feel the need to
maintain a community presence.
We give God thanks for all He has done and is yet going to do. We also
give God thanks for the many faithful members who have contributed
down through the years and are contributing to the life of the church today
in these very challenging times.
Our history is still being written, but we pray that in all that we strive to do
God gets the glory.
Because of Him,
Pastor Theodore H. Bryson, Sr.
Foreword
About Our Pastor
Dr. Theodore H. Bryson, Sr., the youngest of four
children, was born May 13, 1950 in Davidson Coun-
ty to William E. and Mollie Bryson. The family moved to
Murfreesboro, Tennessee in 1953. At the age of 7, he pro-
fessed a belief in the Lord Jesus Christ and united with the
Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church under the pastorate of
the Reverend H.L. Jordan.
Pastor Bryson served in the U.S. Army from 1971-1974
and was honorably discharged. On Sept. 30, 1972, he mar-
ried Gloria Dean Vaughn. They were blessed with three
children: Theodore Bryson, Jr., Eric Jeremy Bryson and
Shelly Nicole Bryson-dela Santos; and three grandchildren.
Pastor Bryson was employed at the Nashville Veterans
Administration Medical Center from 1974 until he retired
to do full-time ministry at Mt. Nebo Baptist Church. He
graduated from the Tennessee Area Vocational Technical
School in 1971 with a diploma as a Licensed Practical
Nurse. He graduated from the University of Tennessee at
Nashville in 1979 with an Associate of Science Degree in
Nursing. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the
American Baptist College in 1984. He studied at David
Lipscomb University and received a Master’s degree from
Vanderbilt Divinity School. In 2003, he earned a Doctorate
in Ministries from United Theological Seminary (Dayton,
OH). The church planned to charter a bus to attend gradua-
tion, but canceled the trip due to treacherous winter roads.
Pastor Bryson joined the Mt. Hopewell Missionary Bap-
tist Church in Donelson, Tennessee, under the pastorate of
the Reverend John D. Mobley. In February 1980, he ac-
cepted his calling into the Ministry. He preached his first
sermon on March 30, 1980 and was licensed to preach. He
was ordained in 1981, prior to the departure of Pastor
Mobley. He accepted the call to pastor Mt. Hopewell in
April 1982 and served Mt. Hopewell until April 25, 1993.
Pastor Bryson accepted the call and assumed the Pastor-
ate of the Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist Church on May 2,
1993, following the retirement of Mt. Nebo’s Pastor Emeri-
tus, Dr. Gill H. Gordon, Sr.
Theodore H. Bryson, Sr., D. Min.
7

brother, Elton S. Benson, are buried in the same
grave.
The cemetery, which was founded in 1869,
fell into disrepair years later after management
failed to keep up the site. Graves were over-
turned or became sunken in the ground, and
many of the internment records were lost. Vol-
unteers from the Davidson County Cemetery
Survey combed the cemetery on Nov. 10, 2001
and recorded the inscriptions on over 400 tomb-
stones. Thanks to their efforts, we are able to
locate the final resting place of our founding
pastor.
The inscription on the headstone reads:
PHARAOH H. BENSON
DIED APR 22, 1905
ELTON S. BENSON
DIED JUNE 22, 1923
BROTHERS
Pharaoh H. Benson, the founding pastor of
Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist Church, was
born Feb. 15, 1841 in Lawrence County, MS. He
was the son of Wilkes Benson (See 1900 U.S.
Census) and was a shoemaker by trade. His
name was spelled a variety of ways on U.S. Cen-
sus documents: Pharaoh (marriage and death cer-
tificates), Pharoh (1900), and Faro. Some of the
early census takers had little education, while
others were not particularly concerned about cor-
rectly spelling the names of African-Americans.
Names also were spelled phonetically, or accord-
ing to what the census taker thought he or she
heard. Although Mt. Nebo dedicated the “Pharoh
Benson Fellowship Hall” in 1971, for this histori-
cal record we will refer to Our Founder as The
Rev. Pharaoh H. Benson.
Rev. Benson married Ellen Stockell, who was
born in October 1843. They were married Feb.
15, 1865, by The Rev. Nelson G. Merry. Henry
Johnson, a family friend served as a witness. Ac-
cording to the 1900 Census, five children are
named among census records: Maria Anna, 1865-
1936; Jane E., 1871-1938; London, 1870-1891;
Pharaoh, Jr., 1876 - (date of death unknown; and
Edward D., 1879 - (date of death unknown).
Rev. Benson was self-educated and believed
in education for Blacks and insisted that his chil-
dren attend school. His daughter Jane (See biog-
raphy on page 38) became a teacher and married
William H. Fort, Sr., a professor at Fisk Univer-
sity. According to family records in the Tennes-
see State Library and Archives, Jane was also
related to The Rev. Ambrose Allen Bennett, who
was the sixth pastor of Westwood Baptist
Church, from 1928-1953.
The Benson family lived at 1615 Hamilton
St. According to his death certificate on Ances-
try.com, Benson died at home after being ill for
about 60 days. He was last treated by his physi-
cian, W.R. Baker, M.D., from Feb. 19 to Feb. 22,
1905; but he succumbed to enteritis caused by
malaria fever at 7 p.m., April 22, 1905.
Records for Mt. Ararat Cemetery on Orr Ave-
nue in Nashville show that Rev. Benson and his
Reverend Pharaoh Benson, Founder
Pharaoh and Ellen Benson
8

The View From Mt. Nebo
In the early days of reconstruction under the admin-
istration of President U.S. Grant, when Negroes
were very oppressed, Mt. Nebo Baptist Church was
organized by The Reverend Pharaoh H. Benson. In
1871, our first minister was ordained and sent by The
Reverend Nelson Merry, pastor of the First Colored
Baptist Church of Nashville. At that time, Black con-
gregations started by white Baptist churches were re-
ferred to as “mission” churches.
In previous church histories, it was reported that
Nelson G. Merry was pastor of Spruce Street Baptist
Church when he ordained Pharaoh Benson and sent
him to found the Mt. Nebo (Mission) Baptist Church .
However, further research documents the following:
On March 7, 1845, First Baptist Church of Nash-
ville’s “colored” members petitioned church officials
to allow them to form a separate and independent
church. In January 1848, under Samuel Davidson, a
white assistant minister, the First Colored Baptist
Church of Nashville (FCBCN Mission) was allowed
to begin separate services. White supervision was still
needed to make sure that services in the colored
churches were conducted properly. Among the first
free Negro preachers were John Dodd, Henry Howard,
and Nelson G. Merry, who was freed in 1845 and later
tutored by white ministers at First Baptist Church.
In 1852, Negro members at the mission church
were given permission to purchase a house on Martin
Street, and in October of that same year, Nelson G.
Merry became “moderator.” He was ordained by white
ministers of the parent church on November 29, 1853.
According to the U.S. Census, the Rev. Nelson G.
Merry married Pharaoh Benson and Ellen Stockell on
Feb. 26, 1865. In the 1870 Census, Pharaoh Benson
was listed as 27 years old, and his wife Ellen was 23.
They had three children: Anna, John and Landon.
Benson owned about $300, which was considered to
be a large amount of money at that time.
In 1871, Rev. Merry ordained Rev. Benson and
sent him to pastor the newly formed Mt. Nebo congre-
gation of about 10 members, as recorded in the Nash-
ville Globe newspaper. The first converts were: Sis-
ters: Hulda, Ann Mason, Laura Rhodes, Fannie Wat-
kins, Molley Valentine and Jane Young. Brothers:
Wash Rhodes, Aaron Watkins and Rev. Henry Brown.
Rev. Merry died in 1884. Growing disputes and
factionalism among the First Colored Baptist Church
congregation resulted in a split, which birthed Mount
Olive Missionary Baptist Church (1887) and Spruce
Street Baptist Church (1893). After a fire destroyed
the Spruce Street Church building in December 1893,
factions of the church fought over the burned-out
building. In 1895, the state courts awarded the burned-
out structure to the group which rebuilt the church,
From the Beginning, 1871 – 1896
9

and it became incorporated as Spruce Street Baptist
Church in 1898. In that same ruling, the smaller group
won the right to retain the historic name “First Col-
ored Baptist Church of Nashville” and the church’s
1866 charter. On October 29, 1965, Rev. Kelly Miller
Smith, Sr., pastor, and congregation petitioned the
State of Tennessee to amend the 1895 charter and
change the church’s name to “First Baptist Church,
Capitol Hill” (FBCCH).
Following this scenario, Rev. Merry was pastor of
the First Colored Baptist Church of Nashville, not
Spruce Street Baptist Church, when he sent Pharaoh
Benson to Mt. Nebo in 1871.1
In the early days, it was not unusual for Negro set-
tlers to walk several miles to church. As they moved
farther and farther away from the downtown core, a
need arose for a place of worship for those who lived
along the railroad near Clifton Avenue in North Nash-
ville. Testament to the beginning of the impact Mt.
Nebo would have on the community, as late as 1890,
26th
Avenue, N. was called Benson Avenue, and Mer-
ry Street was known at one time as Mt. Nebo Avenue.
According to records of the Stones River Associa-
tion, the first members of Mt. Nebo met for worship in
a one-room frame building used as a school for Negro
children in the 13th
District. Because of the growth of
the church, during the 12 years of his ministry, Rev.
Benson was known as an evangelist.
After, the school house was heavily damaged in
1878 by strong, tornado-like winds, the school moved
and the Mt. Nebo congregation, which had grown to
25 members, was given permission to purchase the
damaged building and property. The land on which
Mt. Nebo was built previously belonged to William F.
Hefferman, who was born in 1814 in Ireland. Heffer-
man and his wife Ellen had four children: Mary, Win-
ifred, Ellen and Thomas. The Hefferman’s lived near
Hadley Park, and in 1850 he was a railroad superin-
tendent. Hefferman was murdered near his home in
1865, and according to newspaper accounts of the tri-
al, four men were hanged for the crime.
The wind-damaged church was rebuilt during Ben-
son’s pastorate, and the following pastors followed
with no change in structure of the building: the Rever-
ends Jack Harding, Luke Coleman and O’Neal. In
1888, also during Rev. Cyrus Dillard’s pastorate, the
ceiling was raised, new pews were installed and a
choir stand was built to accommodate the church’s
first choir, which was formed a year earlier. In the lat-
er years of the first period, Rev. George W. James
purchased pulpit furniture and under Rev. J.C. Cros-
by’s pastorate of five years (1889-1895), a parsonage
was built. He was known as a great revivalist, and the
church added many members, including his wife, Julia
Crosby, who was converted and baptized under his
leadership. Rev. E.M. Merritt was called in 1896,
thereby ending the first era.
1896 – 1921
At the beginning of this period, the membership
had grown so much that it became necessary to en-
large the church building. This became a reality under
the seven-year pastorate of Rev. E.M. Merritt. Next on
the scene was the Rev. John W. Slaughter, from 1902-
1909. During his seven years of leadership, the mem-
bership continued to grow and construction on a new
building began.
__________
1
Sources:
Lovett, Bobby L., The African-American History of Nashville, Tennessee, 1780-1930. 1999. The University of Arkansas Press.
May, Jr., Lynn E., The First Baptist Church of Nashville, Tennessee, 1820-1970. 1970. First Baptist Church.
Church –goers on the circular stairs of the Gothic-style
sanctuary, which was built in 1908.
10

Built in stages, the basement, a white stone foun-
dation, was the first church-owned meeting place until
the structure was completed. The two-story, regal
sanctuary stood high on “Mt. Nebo Hill,” the corner of
25th
Avenue, N. and Clifton Avenue. The cornerstone
of the modern, Gothic style red brick building bore the
date 1908. The church had stained glass windows, gal-
lery seating for 100, and a baptismal pool with a 4 ft. x
9 ft. painting of the baptism of the Apostle John,
which was painted by two church members. The two-
story building, by that day’s standard, was a show-
piece and reason for the congregation to be proud and
stand tall among other churches of the city.
After Rev. Slaughter, came Rev. George Dixon.
He was able, during his two years as pastor, to beauti-
fy the new building with plastered walls and to install
its first electric lights. Following the resignation of
Rev. Dixon, the church selected leadership from its
own members – Rev. S.S. Page, Rev. E.L. Cleggett
and Rev. Henry Brown, who served one year each.
They did well in holding the church together.
Prior to 1918, when the first inside baptismal pool
was constructed, all converts were baptized in Rich-
land Creek on Charlotte Avenue. Today, the creek sits
between the West Nashville Police Station and a shop-
ping mall. Mattie Blake was the last member of Mt.
Nebo to be baptized in the creek. In an interview in
1971, Blake said she was baptized in 1917 along with
six other candidates, including Louise Dement Allen
(mother of the late Deacon Clarence D. Laster), Mattie
Wester, Cornelius Childress, and Tama Douglas.
Blake said that she came to Nashville from St.
Louis in 1904 after her mother died. At that time, Mt.
Nebo had about 50 members. Blake said people lived
far apart then and that there were few houses close to
the church. She said that before members had access
to automobiles, they marched on foot to the creek for
baptisms. .
Next, a great evangelist from Texas, Rev. H.A.
Alfred, was called to the pastorate in 1921. He had a
record of 150 converts added to the church member-
This two-story structure was built in stages. The concrete basement served as the worship place
for several years until this two-story building was completed.
Inside the Gothic church sanctuary.
11

ship during the first revival under his pastorate. A nec-
essary enlargement of the building put in motion plans
for a new wing. The plans were finalized and the re-
sult was the completion of the west wing. This era
ended under the continuing leadership of Rev. Alfred.
1921 – 1940
The beginning of the third era found Rev. Alfred
still leading the congregation. During this period the
Mt. Nebo Mirror, the church’s first newsletter, was
founded and published monthly by the late Arthurston
G. Thomas, Sr., editor. Rev. Alfred served the church
for 14 years, one of the longest pastorates in Mt.
Nebo’s history. His pastorate spanned both the second
and the third eras.
Following his resignation, in 1928, the church was
faced with a mortgage debt of $1,500.00. The church
again called our own Rev. E.L. Cleggett, who minis-
tered from 1928-1930 and liquidated the debt during
this, his second administration. Later, Rev. H.G.
Hockett was called and during his one-year service,
the church’s interior was decorated. Our own Rev.
Henry Brown was called again to serve of one year.
Rev. L.A. McIntyre was then called and the concrete
basement was completed during this period.
After the resignation of Rev. L.A. McIntyre, the
Rev. Israel Golphin was called to the pastorate. Rev.
Golphin was a graduate of the American Baptist Theo-
logical Seminary on Whites Creek Pike. He immedi-
ately launched a $5,000.00 renovating program. The
renovation included: a new baptistry, balcony, choir
room, ladies’ and men’s restrooms and a pastor’s
study. The ending of this ear began a very stormy pe-
riod for the church. In spite of the completed improve-
ments, the membership became disturbed; love van-
ished; hate, malice and envy took its place.
This, indeed, was one of the darkest stages in our
church’s history.
On March 24, 1943, Golphin and about 100, two-
thirds of the congregation, left Mt. Nebo, following a
dispute in which the trustees/deacons of Mt. Nebo
The A-frame structure, the church’s first modern building, was erected in 1963.
Rev. A. G. Thomas, Jr. used Series E Church Bonds to
finance the building of the A-frame.
12

__________________
2
From the Ebenezer Baptist Church 49th
Anniversary Program Brochure, Sunday, April 5, 1992; Nehemiah E. Douglas, Pastor).
sought resolution through the local court system.
Claiming a separation of church and state, the judge
refused to hear the case and put the settlement of the
issue back in the hands of the church. Golphin
preached his first sermon at Ebenezer on the first Sun-
day in April 1943. The names of Mt. Nebo members
who followed Golphin to Ebenezer are listed in the
history of the Ebenezer Baptist Church as its founding
members. Originally located in a store front at the
corner of 28th
Avenue, North and Clifton Avenue,
Ebenezer Church is now located near the corner of
Herman Street and 27th
Avenue, N.2
Having been built on a solid foundation and know-
ing that the gates of hell shall not prevail against it,
Mt. Nebo was able to come out with lifted heads and
called our own Rev. C.C. Bass as pastor. Rev. Bass
answered the call in 1943.
1943 – 1971
At the beginning of the fourth era, Rev. C.C. Bass
offered an educational program, which the church
adopted and began to work it out one step at a time. In
addition, much was done to make the sanctuary more
attractive. The interior was improved, new pews and a
Hammond organ was purchased; a public address sys-
tem was installed and the church office was supplied
with a typewriter, mimeograph machine and a filing
cabinet with a vault.
With a developing education program, property
expansion was necessary. At this period, the Official
Board of the church was expanded. Three women –
Louise Allen, Davie Della Phillips and Bernice Alder-
son – were added to the Trustee Board. The property
east and north of the church was bought during the 10
years of Rev. Bass’s pastorate. The major part of his
ministry was devoted to teaching the evangelistic
work. His last message to the church was, “It is Nec-
essary for a Change.” During his ministry, the church
purchased pews at a cost of $3,000 and the member-
ship increased from 123 to 500.
After the sudden death of Rev. Bass, in 1954, the
Rev. R.C. Smith, who was the assistant to Rev. Bass
and the Superintendent of Sunday School, was called
as interim pastor. The church then called the Rev. J.L.
Edwards, a young man with no pastoral experience but
possessing the ability to carry out the progressive pro-
gram left on record by Rev. Bass. The church began to
retrogress instead of progress; a large sum of money
from the building fund was wasted in Civil Courts
over a two-year period. Our church lost prestige and
became a byword in the city and state. Our members
scattered throughout the city. This was another dark
period for our church, even though the court’s deci-
sion ruled in favor of the church.
The present sanctuary and educational complex were built in 1991.
13

Mt. Nebo went into prayer for 21 consecutive days
and five nights of preaching to allow the Holy Spirit to
direct our minds. Our own Rev. Arthurston G. Thom-
as, Jr. was chosen for the task to lead us to greater
heights in Kingdom Building. The membership was so
scattered that there were only 135 members left. Due
to evangelistic and visitation programs instituted by
Rev. Bass and continued by Rev. Thomas, the mem-
bership increased. With great love, Rev. Thomas suf-
fered with us to this point in the spiritual and physical
rebuilding of the church. For this we are grateful. Rev.
Thomas initiated the floating of Series E Church
Bonds to finance the new structure. Our old church
was razed in 1963, and the participation in the floating
bonds was successful enough for us to proceed with
and complete the new edifice in one year.
During this time, we worshipped in the Head Ele-
mentary School and Wall’s Tabernacle AME Zion
Church, pastored at that time by the Rev. Evelyn Lus-
ter. We are, indeed, grateful to the Metropolitan Board
of Education and our neighboring church for their be-
nevolent consideration. Under the leadership of Rev.
Thomas the church was completed and the parking lot
acquired. The dedication was held and among the
many visitors present were Mr. William Fort, son of
Jane Benson-Fort and former principal of Ford-Green
School, and Mr. John C. Hull, principal of Pearl High
School. The dedication sermon was preached by Rev.
C.R. Williams, Secretary of the Baptist Training Un-
ion Board of the National Baptist Convention, Inc., in
1964. We are appreciative for the leadership given by
Rev. Thomas during this era. He resigned in January
1971 to accept the pastorate of the St. Paul Baptist
Church in St. Albans, West Virginia.
1971 – 1992
In April 1971, Mt. Nebo called the Rev. Gill H.
Gordon, Sr. former pastor of Stateland Missionary
Baptist Church in Old Hickory, TN. His ministry start-
ed with the theme: “LET’S MARCH TOGETHER
ASKING GOD TO SHOW US THE WAY.” This
theme paid off in many ways. The membership of Mt.
Nebo Baptist Church grew and flourished around Rev-
erend Gordon and his programs. Many accepted the
calling to the ministry under his pastorate. After much
prayerful consideration, Reverend Gordon was led by
the Holy Spirit to build a new sanctuary. We pur-
chased property, refinished the church’s furniture, and
purchased a van and a car under his directorship.
The church’s first modern structure was built in
1963 under the leadership of the Rev. A.G. Thomas,
Jr. Due to God’s increase, the congregation soon out-
grew the A-frame and under the leadership of Rev. Dr.
Gill H. Gordon, Sr., the present facility was erected
adjacent to the A-frame in 1976. The A-frame was
renovated and dedicated to our founder, the Rev. Phar-
aoh Benson.
Dr. Gill H. Gordon, Sr. (center), in 1993, with Deacons and Sons in the Ministry (from left to right): Rev. John T. Gilbert, Rev.
George Thomas, Rev. Patrice L. Gordon, Rev. Frank S. Gordon, Rev. Marvin Smith and Rev. Dudley Curtis.
14

The “Gill H. Gordon Educational Complex” came
to fruition after the Mt. Nebo Church body was repre-
sented with a recommendation from the Pastor and
the Mt. Nebo Official Board to build a new educa-
tional complex – the Church approved. Citizens Bank
approved the financing. The Larkin Group (architect)
and J. Harold Shankle Construction Company were
called in, and the Mt. Nebo Finance and Building
Committee worked untiringly along with them.
The A-frame was demolished and construction
began on the present educational complex in August
1990. Dubbed the Dr. Gill H. Gordon Educational
Complex, it was dedicated to God for Christian edu-
cation and worship on Sunday, January 27, 1991.
This building is now being utilized by the Church and
shared with the community..
During this period of time other changes and pur-
chases were made. The sanctuary was equipped with
a new piano, new sound system, new hymn books,
cushioned pews were installed, and the balcony was
completed. The West wall was removed and recon-
structed and a burglar alarm system was installed.
Changes made on the outside of the church include a
new parking lot, which was leveled and paved.
Accomplishments during this period include: the
mortgage was paid off, the roof repaired, the Sanctu-
ary painted, the balcony furnished and carpeted by
Sister Cornelia Segine and the Dement Family, and a
new vestibule was built. We reconstructed the side
wall of the church on Pearl Street, purchased a lot on
Pearl Street, established the usher room, constructed
a shelter for the van, and repaved the parking lot.
Mt. Nebo was blessed with her first adolescent
minister, Rev. Cornell Woodard, age 16. During this
period, we were blessed with 16 new members.
Mt. Nebo, we did not sell fish dinners, spaghetti
suppers; nor did we sponsor bazaars, but we brought
our financial blessings (though our stewardship) to
His storehouse with our Tithes and Offerings. Pledg-
es were made in addition to our tithes and offerings.
Individual members and auxiliaries also donated
classroom desks, chairs, tables, kitchen accessories,
trash cans, wall clocks, telephones, a microwave ov-
en, china, mirrors, tissue holders, speakers for the
intercom system, a double oven, PHYSICAL LA-
BOR, and much more.
In February 1991, a new Council of Christian Ed-
ucation consisting of a director and six members, was
formed with the leadership of the Pastor to design
new programs for the Education Ministry of the
Church, to use this educational complex to its fullest
by sharing our blessings through Evangelism, teach-
ing persons how to mature spiritually in Christ, exer-
cising their faith, responding to God’s love.
The Council of Christian Education and the entire
Mt. Nebo Church body will be working together to
carry out the Great Commission: “Go ye therefore,
and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of
the Father, and of the Son – and the Holy Ghost:
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I
have commanded you; and, lo, I am with you always,
even unto the end of the world.” Amen. (Matthew
28:19-20)
On Sunday, July 1, 1990, Bro. Marvin Antonio
Smith announced to the Mt. Nebo Family that he had
been called by God to Preach the Word. Rev. Smith
became a member of Mt. Nebo at the tender age of
five. Nineteen years later, under the pastorate of Dr.
Gill H. Gordon, Sr., Rev. Smith accepted his call and
became an associate minister here at Mt. Nebo. Dur-
ing this period, nine new members were added to the
Church. During this period 30 new members were
added to the church. The north wall of church was
renovated and roof was replaced.
The late Deacon James Howard breaks ground during a cer-
emony for the present sanctuary in 1976. On-lookers include
Nancy Gaines, trustee; Deacon C.D. Laster, Dr. Gill H. Gor-
don, Sr., and Mary J. (Smith )Gordon, trustee.
15

1992-1993
During this period, an accounting class was orga-
nized. Instructors: Howard E. Witherspoon and Patri-
cia Studdard, who served as his assistant. Additional
tables and chairs were purchased for the Pharaoh Ben-
son Hall and Children’s Sunday School Classes. This
was a year of mixed emotions. Our pastor, Dr. Gill H.
Gordon, Sr., announced his retirement, and a pulpit
committee was assigned to select another pastor.
Those members were: Deacon Frank Davis, Deacon
Clarence Laster, Deacon Harry Later, Sis. Olive May-
berry, Sis. Edwina Thomas, and Sis. Deborah White.
A Retirement Committee was appointed to plan a cel-
ebration of the Rev. Dr. Gordon. Members: Bernice
Dawson, chairperson; Roslyn Armstrong, co-
chairperson; and Gwendolyn Bledsoe, co-chairperson.
On March 27, 1993, a Brunch was given in honor of
our First Lady, Mrs. Mary Jane Gordon. Bernice Daw-
son served as chairperson of that committee.
A Retirement Celebration was held on Friday,
April 2, 1993. During the first 100 years in the history
of Mt. Nebo Baptist Church, 22 pastors served this
church. Dr. Gordon, the 23rd
pastor of Mt. Nebo, came
to Mt. Nebo in the Centennial year (1971) and served
for 22 years, the longest tenure of service to date of
any pastor at Mt. Nebo. The Retirement Celebration
was held at the Baptist World Center. The theme was
“GOD HAS SMILED ON ME,” one of Dr. Gordon’s
favorite songs.
Sunday, April 3, 1993, Dr. Gill H. Gordon,
preached his last sermon as pastor of Mt. Nebo Baptist
Church. Text: Genesis 5:22-23 – “LET GOD BE
YOUR WALKING PARTNER.” Following Dr. Gor-
don’s retirement on April 3, 1993, he was voted Pastor
Emeritus. He continued to be a faithful member of the
congregation until his death on Nov. 3, 1999.
1993 – present
On March 30, 1993, the Rev. Theodore H. Bryson
was elected pastor. He was installed on June 20 of that
year. Under Rev. Bryson’s leadership, Mt. Nebo con-
tinues to be a light in the community and is prayerful-
ly seeking to increase programs and outreach minis-
tries.
Under Rev. Bryson’s pastorate the Youth Ministry
has been strengthened; monthly ministry with the resi-
dents of Windsor House Nursing Home was initiated;
transportation ministry to the Family Resource Center
at Pearl Cohn High School was initiated; Children’s
Church, a Big Brother/Big Sister program for new
members, and a Single’s ministry were initiated; a
Food Certificate Program was initiated through a local
grocery chain for needy individuals and their families;
an Adopt-A-Street program and regular community
clean-up efforts were initiated. A community cookout
for area residents was initiated as well.
The Lord also enabled us to purchase an apartment
unit and other properties. We’ve been blessed to in-
stall an elevator in the church for senior citizens and
members who find steps to be a special challenge.
We’ve also initiated an after-school program called
the Shepherd’s House, which meets once a week to
help children with homework and to build self-esteem
and character.
In 1995, the first ever Annie Laura Dement Schol-
arship Day was held in conjunction with Youth Day.
The offerings of the morning worship would go direct-
ly to the scholarship fund. This will be done on an an-
nual basis.
Also, the Lord enabled the church to retire the debt
on the educational complex, 3-5 years ahead of sched-
ule. Choir #3 was outfitted with new robes, all of them
personally sewn by Sis. Fredina Rucker, who donated
her time, talent and treasure to this project.
Pastor T. H. Bryson, Sr. & First Lady Gloria Bryson.
16

In July 1996, Mt. Nebo participated in an interfaith
worship experience at Riverfront Park, a community
event showing unity among races in light of the burn-
ing of churches. In August, the church had a “Prayer
Walk” through the community during the Nashville
Night Out Against Crime. In the fall of 1996, the Nan-
nie Kelly Boosters group prayerfully decided to dis-
band. They donated 75 pew Bibles at their last annual
program. Christopher Gaines preached his first ser-
mon after announcing his calling on Nov. 25, 1996.
In December 1996, Mt. Nebo donated over 50
bags of groceries in support of the LeSea Global Feed
The Hungry, Love In a Bag ministry.
In 1997, the church continued to seek to minister
to the community. On Jan. 1, Mt. Nebo hosted the
1997 Emancipation Proclamation Breakfast sponsored
by the Interdenominational Minister’s Fellowship. In
February, the choir began a ministry at the Women’s
Prison and the church hosted the Stones River District
Association Congress. In March, the church began
participating in the Food Source Ministry and the
Room in the Inn Ministry. To date, Mt. Nebo has fed
and housed hundreds of homeless individuals through
the Room in the Inn. The Youth Ministry has been
strengthened by having youth conduct the devotion on
the Third Sunday of each month.
On Nov. 25, 2001, Mt. Nebo dedicated new addi-
tions to the church, which included the Pastor’s Study,
commercial kitchen, choir room, nursery, two shower
rooms and a half-court gym. Dr. Jimmy Larkin, pastor
of House of Prayer Ministries and the architect
(Shankle & Lind Construction Company) for the con-
struction, delivered the Dedication message.
Between April 2004 and April 2005, there were 20
additions to the church: five by baptism, and the re-
maining by Christian Experience or Restoration. The
new parking lot across the street from the church has
been completed. Working in partnership with the De-
partment of Children’s Services, Mt. Nebo provided
space for staff in their work with families and children
through the Parenting Class Ministry. The church also
worked in a collaborative effort with six other church-
es in the community to address a problem business.
Mt. Nebo provided meeting space for the residential
council of the Booker Street Strategy Area, which is
responsible for Community Award Block Grant Funds
for infrastructure improvements.
Births between 2004 and 2005: Baby Terrence was
born to Markeisha Washington; and Baby Makelah
was born to Ebony McFadden. Homegoings between
April 2004 and April 2005: Bros. LeRoy Cooper, Mil-
lard Hayes, Sr., Deon Maynard, Frank Watts, and Wil-
lie Fisher; Sis. Eleanor Carr, Deborah Bledsoe, Lena
Lyons, and Ellen Frances Ewing-Speights. Deaths be-
tween April 2005 and April 2006 included: Sis. Ber-
nice Dawson, Sis. Regina Dobbins, Sis. Helen Swett-
Ford, Sis. Ernestine Crump, and Deacon Ellis Mal-
lone.
During 2005, a Church Policy and Procedures
Manual was undertaken and each ministry submitted
an action plan to the pastor. A new position was creat-
ed: Youth and Young Adult Director. New lights were
purchased and installed in the sanctuary, and the
church was painted both upstairs and downstairs. Al-
so, 38 new members were added to the church family.
In 2009, Rev. Bryson served as the Minister of the
Day in the Tennessee State Chambers by invitation of
Senator Thelma Harper. Mayor Karl Dean worshiped
with the Mt. Nebo Family during that time. In 2011,
Mt. Nebo successfully completed paying off the mort-
gage five years early, during a time when the U.S.
economy took a downturn.
Notable events from 2006-2007 include:
Jesus Christ Crusaders (youth group) along with some
adults participated in sponsoring and building a
Habitat Home in Providence Park.
The Willing Workers initiated a ministry focusing on
HIV/AIDS.
On Oct. 29, 2006, Dr. James Hildreth, world re-
nowned HIV/AIDS research scientist and physi-
cian at Meharry Medical College, spoke to Mt.
Nebo during the morning worship hour concerning
the HIV/AIDS crisis.
On April 1, 2007, four Mt. Nebo members – Elaine
Warren, Janise Shaw, Patricia Jordan, and Jean
Buchanan – were certified by the State of Tennes-
see to be HIV/AIDS prevention counselors. Since
that time, Mt. Nebo has served as a testing site on
several occasions.
Other purchases include the duplexes on the west
side of the church to make way for new parking spac-
es. The church also purchased a Muslim School adja-
cent to the duplexes. In 2008, that building was leased
to Jeff Carr, a local actor who formed the Amun Ra
Theater, the first locally owned African-American the-
ater. Former Titans football player Eddie George col-
laborated with Carr on several creative projects.
17

Since Pastor Bryson’s arrival, the membership
has grown significantly adding new members
through Baptism, Restoration, Rededication, and
Christian Experience. Through the Watch Care min-
istry, college students – including ministers studying
in our city – find spiritual covering while they are
away from their home churches.
Throughout Pastor Bryson’s tenure he has put an
emphasis on prayer and ministry. Mt. Nebo has
served as a site for: HIV testing; training for Depart-
ment of Children’s Services employees; training
HIV/AIDS counselors for the First Response Center;
Congress of Christian Education sessions and instal-
lation of officers of Stones River Association church-
es, National Baptist Convention, Inc.; Neighbors
Reaching Out (NRO) meetings; Triple Crown
Luncheon; Emancipation Proclamation by the Inter-
denominational Minister’s Fellowship; Baccalaureate
Service for American Baptist College’ Nashville
Night Out Against Crime; Mom’s in Touch; Shelter
for Red Cross/Hurricane Gustav; National Day of
Prayer, and Habitat for Humanity.
Pastor Bryson has continued and built upon the
teachings passed down from Rev. C.C. Bass, Rev.
A.G. Thomas, Jr. and Dr. Gill H. Gordon, Sr. As the
church family undertakes each change in leadership,
its evangelistic and missionary work continues to
grow stronger.
All to God’s Glory!
18
On Sunday, April 28, 2012, Ariana R. Clopton, 13,
great-granddaughter of former Pastor Emeritus Dr.
Gill H. Gordon, Sr., delivered an original poem in
tribute to the road that brought us over and the dedi-
cated and Spirit-filled saints of Mt. Nebo who so-
journed here throughout the years.
A Tribute to Mt. Nebo
By Princess Gordon-Patton
We started in a humble place,
Because someone saw the need,
Ten former slaves who worshiped God,
Their faith had sown the seed.
They walked for miles on Sunday morn,
The distance did not bar
Their longing to worship Him,
Yet we drive up in cars.
In a one-rom shack they “Raised the Roof,”
In songs triumphant they sang,
To the God who brought them over,
Yet we stay home to watch the game.
Don’t you feel their presence in this place?
They’re smiling down on us today,
If they could see Mt. Nebo now,
I wonder what they’d say?
So, look back and see how far we’ve come,
Look back and praise our Lord, our Guide,
Through storms, sunshine, snow and rain,
He’s never left our side.
“Lift up your heads, O ye gates!
And the King of Glory shall come in.”
The same God who brought us 141 years by faith,
Is with us now, and will be with us in the end!
Members of the Bryson Family during a celebration honoring
Pastor Bryson’s anniversary.

Former Pastors
J.C. CROSBY
1889-1895
The first parsonage was built
during Rev. Crosby’s pastor-
ate. He was known as a great
revivalist and brought many
people to Christ, including his
wife.
E.L. CLEGGETT
1912-1913; 1928-1930
The church was enlarged dur-
ing Rev. Cleggett’s first term.
During his second term, Rev.
Cleggett led the church in retir-
ing a $1,500.00 mortgage.
S.S. PAGE
1911-1912
Rev. Page was one of three
pastors selected from among
the congregation to serve fol-
lowing the resignation of Rev.
George Dixon (1909-1911).
H.A. ALFRED
1914-1928
The west wing of the church
was built during Rev. Alfred’s
term as pastor. This great
evangelist from Texas, con-
verted 150 souls during a sin-
gle Revival at Mt. Nebo.
ISRAEL GOLPHIN
1934-1943
During Rev. Golphin’s term, the
church was modernized to in-
clude a baptistry, balcony, choir
room, and restrooms. Following
a disagreement with the dea-
cons and trustess, he left the
church along with 100 mem-
bers.
C.C. BASS
1943-1954
Rev. Bass introduced an educa-
tional program to the church,
which was well received. The
church bought property on the
north and east sides of the
church in anticipation of expan-
sion necessary to carry out the
program.
19

Former Pastors, cont.
E.L. EDWARDS
1954-1958
Rev. Edwards was a young
man and inexperienced when
he was called to pastor Mt.
Nebo; however, he worked
hard to carry out the pro-
grams that had been institut-
ed by his predecessors.
A.G. THOMAS
1959-1971
Rev. Thomas promoted evan-
gelistic and visitation efforts
to restore membership, which
had dropped to 135 following
the departure of Rev. Golphin.
The A-frame was built during
his administration.
GILL H. GORDON, SR.
1971-1993
Dr. Gordon was the 23rd
pastor of Mt. Nebo Missionary
Baptist Church. He served Mt.
Nebo for 22 years.. Upon his
retirement, he was elected by
the church as Pastor Emeri-
tus.
20
Pastoral Lineage
Rev. Pharaoh Benson 1871-1883 12 years
Rev. Jack Harding 1883-1884 1 year
Rev. Luke Coleman 1884-1886 2 years
Rev. O’Neal 1886-1887 1 year
Rev. Cyrus Dillard 1887-1888 1 year
Rev. George W. James 1888-1889 1 year
Rev. J.C. Crosby 1889-1895 6 years
Rev. E.M. Merritt 1895-1902 7 years
Rev. John W. Slaughter 1902-1909 7 years
Rev. George Dixon 1909-1911 2 years
Rev. S.S. Page 1911-1912 1 year
Rev. E.L. Cleggett 1912-1913 1 year
Rev. Henry Brown 1913-1914 1 year
Rev. H.A. Alfred 1914-1928 14 years
Rev. E.L. Cleggett 1928-1930 2 years
Rev. H.G. Hockett 1930-1931 1 year
Rev. Henry Brown 1931-1932 1 year
Rev. L.A. McIntyre 1932-1934 2 years
Rev. Israel Golphin 1934-1943 9 years
Rev. C.C. Bass 1943-1954 11 years
Rev. R.C. Smith 1954 (Interim)
Rev. J.L. Edwards 1954-1958 4 years
Rev. A.G. Thomas 1959-1971 12 years
Rev. Gill H. Gordon, Sr. 1971-1993 22 years
Theodore H. Bryson, Sr. 1993-present

Served, or called at Mt. Nebo:
(Names in bold indicate present service)
Min. Christopher Gaines (Assistant to the Pastor,
Mt. Nebo Baptist Church)
Min. Rev. Fredrick Teague (Associate Minister,
Min. Richard Thompson (Associate Minister, Mt.
Nebo Baptist Church)
Rev. John T. Gilbert (Assistant Pastor, under admin-
istration of Dr. Gill H. Gordon, Sr.)
Rev. Marcel Kellar (Pastor, Antioch Baptist Church,
Nashville)
Rev. William Thompson (Pastor, Nassau, Bahamas)
Rev. Frank S. Gordon (Pastor, Fourteenth Avenue
Baptist Church, Nashville)
Rev. Marvin Smith (Associate Minister, Mt. Zion
Baptist Church, Nashville)
Rev. George Thomas
Rev. Henry Osborne
Rev. Crowder
Rev. Dudley Curtis
Rev. Fred Thomas
Rev. Tom Dennis
Rev. Ernie Douglas
Rev. Rufus Douglas
Rev. Charles Powell
Rev. Cornell Woodard
Rev. Kevin Walker
Rev. Curtis Bender
Rev. Alton Edmondson
Later called to the ministry:
Rev. Patrice L. Gordon
The Phillips Siblings:
Rev. Walter Phillips, Rev. Kenneth Phillips, and Rev.
Sabrina Phillips Evans
Women Ministers Enlarge
Our Territory
“In the last days,” God says, “I will pour out my Spirit
upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophe-
sy. Your young men will see visions, and your old
men will dream dreams.” – Acts 2:17 NIV
These women presently serve (in bold), or served Mt.
Nebo in recent years:
Min. Wanda Benson, (Associate Minister, Mt. Nebo
Baptist Church)
Min. Rentonia Moore, (Associate Minister, Mt. Ne-
bo Baptist Church); first female associate minister,
1999
Min. Mona L. (Laster) Wylie, Associate Minister,
Mt. Nebo Baptist Church (The first female minister
from Mt. Nebo Baptist Church to join the Armed
Forces; licensed and ordained by the Rev. E.W. Rob-
erson at Alpha Baptist Church, Nashville, TN.)
Min. Frozene Lott Hayes, (Watch Care), Mt. Nebo
Baptist Church)
Min. Lendozia Farina Edwards, (Associate Minister,
Min. Novella Springette
Mt. Nebo Ministers — Past & Present
Women associate ministers in recent years included: Min-
ister Lendozia Farina Edwards, Minister Rentonia Moore,
Minister Wanda Benson, and Minister Novella Springette.
(Minister Lisa Wylie, not pictured)
21

Adopt-A-Street
Mt. Nebo adopted 24th
Avenue, North – 28th
Avenue,
North. We are responsible for picking up litter at
least four times a year. The purpose of this ministry is
to help keep the neighborhood clean.
Contact person: Deacon Robert Ligon
Another Chance Addiction Ministry
This is support group for individuals who are dealing
with addictions of any nature. It meets every other
Friday.
Contact person: Ernestine Thomas McFadden
Benevolence Ministry
Mt. Nebo provides financial assistance to individuals
and families in need. This ministry also provides food
vouchers to those in need to area Kroger grocery
stores at least once a month. Applicants are screened.
Contact person: Rosalyn Armstrong Gooch
Children’s and Youth Church
This ministry started at Mt. Nebo on Sunday, March
13, 1994, under the leadership of Pastor Theodore H.
Bryson. In the beginning it consisted of ages 3 – 11,
but soon changed to 4-12. Each Sunday service began
with devotion and a sermonette was given by either
Minister G. Davis or Sis. Angela Manuel. The service
was held on Second Sundays and started right after
Sunday School . It ended in time for the children to
be in the sanctuary for the sermon.
As time went on, the numbers grew and fifth Sundays
were added and the children no longer returned to the
sanctuary. Instead, Minister Gaines, or one of the as-
sociate ministers came over from the sanctuary and
offered the invitation to Christ. The children would
have devotion in the Pharaoh Benson Fellowship
Hall, then separate into classes according to age.
They would reassemble after service for the invita-
tion and snack.
Mt. Nebo Ministries
Children’s Church Staff and Participants in 2012
22

As the children grew older, the number increased,
and there was a need to add Youth Classes for ages
13 – 18. Children’s Church became Children’s and
Youth Church, which eventually grew into two sepa-
rate ministries. Over the years, Children’s Church has
become the primary entrance point for children ac-
cepting Christ as their savior, with more than 50
young souls saved to date.
Purpose Statement: To be partners with parents re-
laying the message of the Gospel to children in a lan-
guage they will understand; to bring them closer to
Christ.
Goals: To bring children to a full understanding of
the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, along with an
understanding of Baptism, Communion, and Church
Etiquette, while giving them self-esteem.
Past Staff Members:
Shirley Smith*, Edwina Toms*, Mildred Johnson*,
Katea Jones, Minister Rentonia Moore, Carita Hyde,
Jack Sanford, Cleo McIntyre Richardson (Puppeteer),
Theodore Bryson Jr., Allison Lindsey, Minister Wil-
liamson, Minister Davis*, Donna Branch, Angela
Manuel*, Patti Turner*, Alberta Smith*, Virenda
Orr, Tanya Bledsoe, Minister Lendozia Farina Ed-
wards, Brenda King, Brenda Duke, Andre Jackson,
Veda Spann, Abrie Nickerson, Minister Chris Gaines,
Minister Williams, Annouk Armstrong.
Present Staff Members:
Gloria Wigfall, Director*, Gloria Bryson, Assistant
Director*, Karen Stewart, Joyce Williams, Valerie
Jones*, Ronald Toms, Joyce Majors, Phronda Buck-
ley, Freda Sanford, Vanessa Woodward, Alice Myles
and LaToya White.
*Members of the staff when this ministry began.
Choir Ministry
Youth Choir
Mt. Nebo’s first youth choir, Choir No. 3, was
formed around 1969, under the leadership of Pastor
A.G. Thomas. Mrs. Nellie Stafford founded the choir
in response to her deep conviction that the children of
the church needed an outlet to share their love for
Jesus. Several members served along with her as ad-
visors during the early years. They included: Lucy
Brandon, Mildred Johnson, Ada Walker and Ethel
Gills. Johnny Butler became the first choir musician;
and Walter Phillips, one of the older teenagers, soon
developed as the choir’s first director.
Mrs. Mary Walton, mother of the five Phillips
siblings, offered these anecdotes:
“Mildred (Johnson) was always saying that Walter
was going to preach, but I didn’t see it. His brother
Kenny was called to the ministry at Temple Baptist
Church under Rev. Michael Graves. Two and a half
years later, Walter announced his calling also under
Rev. Graves.
“Resha’s Grocery Store was across the street, and
some of the children would sneak off to the store af-
ter Sunday School. I remember telling Mona Lisa
(Laster) that she was going to pay for that one day,
but who would have imagined that one day she, too,
would be preaching and teaching the Word!”
Over the years, several ministers would spring from
Mt. Nebo’s Choir No. 3: Rev. Fred Thomas, Jr., Rev.
Kenneth Phillips, Rev. Walter Phillips, Rev. Sabrina
(Phillips) Evans, Rev. Mona L. (Laster) Wylie, Rev.
George Thomas, Rev. Lendozia Farina Edwards,
Rev. Frank S. Gordon, Rev. Patrice L. Gordon and
Rev. Cornell Woodard.
Since Children’s Church began in 1994, over 50 children
have come to know Christ and be baptized.
23

Clothing Give Away
Once or twice a year, clothes are provided free of
charge to those in need.
College Outreach
This ministry was started under the leadership of
Minister Farina Edwards in 2002 as she took over as
leader of the Youth Advocate Council. The original
goal of the ministry was to help foster relationships
with college students from the local universities. Lo-
cal college students were invited to come worship
with Mt. Nebo and then be fed a home cooked meal.
During this time we added several college students
into our fold. The next step in this ministry was to
provide some sort of away from home college care
package to our students. These care packages included
things like: soap, detergents, lotions, & deodorants;
needless to say the college students were forever
grateful!
As Mt. Nebo’s own college student population
grew the focus become more about how to ministry to
our students; recently the ministry has provided gift
cards to students & exam care packages. The future is
looking bright for the ministry! As the Mt. Nebo col-
lege student population continues to grow and there
are new and exciting activities/ideas in the pipe line
such as college student volunteer days! This ministry
also distributes care packages once or twice a year to
our members who are students or those students who
attend Mt. Nebo and are away from home.
Submitted by LaTanya Ligon
Council of Christian Education
The Mt. Nebo Council of Christian Education be-
gan in 1991 under the guidance of the Holy Spirit and
under the leadership of the last Pastor Emeritus Dr.
Gill H. Gordon, Sr. The members who birthed this
ministry were Gwendolyn Bledsoe, Director; Olivia
Baxter, Secretary; Robert Cooper, Olive Mayberry,
Joyce Shaw, Rev. Marvin Smith, and Gloria Wigfall.
Dr. Gordon charged us to be “dreamers” as this was
Mt. Nebo’s first formal Christian Education ministry.
We’ve always had spiritual growth training
through Sunday School, Bible, Baptist Training Union
(BTU) and other training arms. We continue to minis-
Council on Christian Education
24

ter to the needs of our membership under the leader-
ship of our Pastor, the Rev. Dr. Theodore H. Bryson,
Sr. Our current, active servant-leaders are Gwendo-
lyn Bledsoe, Minister Rentonia Moore, Princess Gor-
don-Patton, and Gloria Wigfall. Out of this ministry,
several ministries were born, such as the Couples
Ministry and the Singles Ministry. We also continue
to sponsor Black History Month, Christian Education
Sunday, and Servant-Leaders Workshops.
Our first seminar on Christian Leadership was
held on Sat., August 24, 1991, and was led by lectur-
er and Christian educator, Dr. Brenda Holland of Zi-
on Hill First African Baptist Church. Our Nursery
was opened to attendees who had children five years
old and under. Patricia Jordan cared so lovingly for
our little ones. Also, a class was provided for chil-
dren from ages six to 12, taught by Sonya Snow. All
seminars, workshops, conferences and conventions
are opened to the entire membership.
Out of this ministry, we developed, led by Pastor
Bryson, the Mt. Nebo Baptist Church Mission State-
ment, which reads:
“To manifest Jesus Christ in our lives
(individually and collectively) and seek to bring
others into a personal dynamic relationship
with Him by ministering to the whole man.”
The Committee consists of nine members appointed
by the Director of Christian Education and the Pas-
tor. The work of the Committee is divided into the
following areas: Children and Youth, Young Adults,
Adults, Leadership Development, Education for Mis-
sions, Athletics and Recreation, Library and Audio/
Visual. A member of the Christian Education Com-
mittee is responsible for each of these areas. The
Committee is also responsible for the organization,
administration and supervision of the entire educa-
tion program of the church.
Mt. Nebo is a member of the following associations:
National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. (NBC, USA,
Inc.); Stones River District Association, and The
Tennessee Baptist Missionary & Educational Con-
vention, all of which sponsor Christian Education
leadership development for members nationwide.
Submitted by Gwendolyn Bledsoe
Couples/Class Fellowship
Classes are held every Sunday morning for married
couples and those contemplating marriage. Quarterly,
a group outing or activity is planned.
Contact persons: Jack and Freda Sanford
The Deborah Bledsoe Prison Ministry
This ministry visits a prison (usually the Riverbend
Maximum Security Prison) for the purpose of wor-
ship and fellowship. This ministry also provides
Christmas gifts to inmates in the State prison system,
particularly the Riverbend Maximum Security prison.
Mission Statement:
 To reach lives for Jesus Christ behind prison walls.
 To give them hope, purpose and direction in their
lives.
The Prison Ministry started around 1995 under
the administration of Pastor Theodore H. Bryson, Sr.
The organizers were Gloria Wigfall and the late Deb-
orah Bledsoe. Mt. Nebo’s entire membership shares
in serving in this ministry by making quarterly visits
Mt. Nebo’s first Christian Leadership Conference for minis-
try leaders was held in 1991.
25

on the 4th Saturday at 5:30 p.m. The Word is brought
forth by the Pastor, Deacons, or other members of the
church. We fellowship by singing, skits, poems and
conversation. We are blessed by the talent of the in-
mates who sing, play instruments, and share their
original poetry, music and songs. We treasure the
time we spend with the inmates. During the Christ-
mas season, we sing Christmas Carols as we are led
from pod to pod by security guards.
Each year the membership collects 700 pairs of
socks and 700 bars of candy, which is delivered to
the prison where they are combined with items from
other churches to make up gift boxes for the inmates.
After the boxes are assembled, we visit the inmates
along with members of other congregations to distrib-
ute the gift boxes. Presently, we are able to hand gifts
to the inmates through open door cells, in most cases.
We talk with the inmates and are able to form rela-
tionships with some of them.
We give special thanks to the late Deborah Bledsoe,
who dedicated many hours and hard work to this
ministry. In honor of her commitment to this minis-
try, it was renamed for her after her death. A few
month’s after her death, Deaconess Patricia Turner
took up the torch and did an awesome job through
her dedication to the ministry. Patricia and Gloria
worked hand in hand as ministry leaders. Deaconess
Turner went home to be with the Lord one month be-
fore this history was published.
Submitted by Gloria Wigfall
Deacons
At Mt. Nebo Baptist Church deacons work close-
ly with the Church’s Official Board and the Pastor to
assist with the church's physical properties, finances,
legal matters and members’ needs. The role of the
DeaconMinistry more or less hinges on the statement
— “As goes the pastor and the deacons , so goes the
church.” Included in their role is also the handling of
disciplinary matters.
Their role includes, but is not limited to: 1) As-
sisting with the collection of tithes and offerings; 2)
Serving on the Official Board; 3) Visiting the sick
and shut-in; 4) Assisting with Communion Services;
and 5) Preparing the baptismal pool for baptism.
Chairman: Edward J. Arnell III
Assistant Chairman: Wayne Kelly
Secretary: Tommy Jordan Sr.
Current Deacons: Horace Pulse, M.D. Smith, Wil-
liam Wigfall, John Dawkins , Robert Ligon. Wilkes
London, Tim Myles, Kenneth Robinson and Harry
Laster .
Submitted by Deacon Edward J. Arnell III
Deaconess
The Deaconesses work closely with the Pastor, Min-
isters and Deacons to assist with the church mem-
bers’ needs. Their work includes the following:
 Lend emotional support
 Assist Pastor in counseling/disciplinary measures
(as appropriate)
 Build relationships with new members
 Assist with Baptism of female candidates
 Call and visit sick and shut-in members
 Assist with Communion preparation.
It should be noted that the position of Deaconess is
not an ordained office, however much thought and
consideration is recommended before the selection of
a Deaconess. Marriage is not a requirement to be-
come a Deaconess, nor if one spouse becomes a Dea-
coness/Deacon does that automatically make the oth-
er spouse a Deaconess/Deacon.
Ministry works of the Deaconess include:
 Prayer Vigil (12 hour constant prayer at the
church)
 Prayer Journey (voyage through different
types of prayer between an individual and God)
 Let’s Talk (spiritual gatherings for the
church body to present topics of interest of the
congregation and engage in conversation)
26

Current Deaconess: Linda Spann Cloyd, Malynda
Gaines, Ethel Gills, Patricia Smith Jordan, Clara
Thomas Kelly, Evelyn Laster. Geraldine Malone, Al-
ice Myles, Helen Moore-Robinson, Johnetta Smith
and Edwina Toms.
Evangelism Ministry
“I was introduced to a class call Evangelism Ex-
plosion while being an assistant minister at Temple
Baptist Church. It was a class or course that taught
how to witness. It taught us to ask two questions to
find out where a person was in their spiritual life. The
1st question: Have you come to a place in your spir-
itual life where you know if you were to die today
you would go to heaven? The 2nd question: If you
were to die today and stand before God and He were
to ask you why should I let you into My heaven, what
would you say? These two questions will let you
know who a person is trusting in for his or her salva-
tion. After leaving Temple and coming home to Mt.
Nebo, I brought the course to Mt. Nebo and taught it
to those who wanted to learn to witness. Soon after
that we started to go to the streets around Mt. Nebo.”
Once a month, members of the congregation canvas
the neighborhood or the Nashville community seek-
ing to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Contributed by The Rev. George Thomas
Grace Rehabilitation and Nursing Home
Once a month (3rd
Sunday), the church fellowships
with the residents by providing singing and an inspi-
rational message.
Contact person: B. Jean Brandon
HIV/AIDS Coalition
This ministry was formed to prevent the further
spreading of the HIV/AIDS virus and other sexually
transmitted diseases by providing testing, education,
and promoting responsible sexual behavior and work-
ing in a collaborative erffort with other entities/
groups who share similar concerns.
Contact persons: Elaine Warren and Edward Arnell
Historical Committee
In 1971, the Centennial Committee compiled an
abridged history of the church, which was printed in a
souvenir booklet. Davie Della Phillips, Chairperson, had
served as the unofficial keeper of the church history for
many years. Other members of the committee included:
A.G. Thomas, Co-Chairperson; Deacon Clarence D. Last-
er, Finance Chairman; Bernice Alderson, Publicity Chair-
person; and Warren Lawson, Program Chairperson.
The Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist Church Historical
Committee was formed in 1976, under the direction of Dr.
Gill H. Gordon, Sr. Vivian Eaton Ray, was named Church
Historian, and the committee was charged with preserving
the church history and memorabilia, such as annual day
programs, obituaries, policies and procedures, minutes of
meetings, other old records and photos.
The newly formed Historical Committee immediately
saw the need for a separate room in which to store the
many items that had been collected over the years. Histori-
cal items were scattered throughout the building, so com-
mittee members worked together to bring them together in
one location. After several years of moving boxes to nu-
merous vacant spaces throughout the building, the church
realized the importance of identifying and maintaining a
room to hold our special collection. In 2010, the Historical
Room was located across the hall from the church nursery,
where it remains today.
2013 Members of the Historical Committee
Front Row: Vivian Ray, Historian; Verna Lyons Childs,
Mary Johnson, and Ernestine McFadden
Back Row: Edwina Toms, Theresa London, Princess
Gordon-Patton, and William Earl Laster
27

Past and Present Members of the Committee:
The following individuals are present members
(names in bold) or have served on the Historical
Committee at some point during the years:
Rev. Theodore H. Bryson, Gloria Bryson, Edwina
Toms, Ernestine McFadden, Verna Lyons Childs,
Mary Johnson, William Earl Laster, Theresa Eaton
London, Wilkes London, Olive Mayberry, Vivian
Eaton Ray, Princess Gordon Patton, Veda Spann
Rainey, Minister Mona L. Laster Wylie, Tanuverne E.
Ligon, Josephine Russell, Lena Lyons, Dorothy Wood-
ruff, Willa Gardner, Mildred Johnson, Donna Dillard,
Roslyn Armstrong Gooch, Neshone Grimes Keaton, Jan-
ise Shaw, Rhonda Shaw, Brenda King, Mattie Spann,
Helen Allison, Mattie Blake, Rev. J.W. Childress, Rev.
Frank S. Gordon, William Collier, Fannie Collins. Jean
Davidson, Bernice Dawson, Frances Hawkins, Clarence
Laster, Deacon S.S. Page, Davie Della Phillips, Dawson
Smith, A.D. Thomas, A.G Thomas, Sr., Juanita Thomas,
Ada Walker, & Former Pastors of Mt. Nebo Baptist
Church.
Jesus Christ Crusaders & Habitat Build
Members of the church, age 16 and above, participate
with outreach projects, primarily Habitat for Humani-
ty, a program that builds affordable homes for limited
income individuals and families. Mt. Nebo collabo-
rates with other churches and contributes finances
and volunteers to help families in need.
Contact persons: Clara Kelly and Anita Young
Let’s Talk
This ministry meets twice a year to discuss topics of
concern for men and women. Usually men and wom-
en meet separately.
Contact persons:
For Women: Clara Kelly; For Men: Charles Williams
Men of Integrity
This ministry seeks to foster a deeper spirituality and
camaraderie among men through study, fellowship
and ministry.
Contact person: Charles Williams
Magnificent & Mature Seniors
Initiated by Clara Kelly, Sharon Ewin, Malynda
Gaines, & Wayne Kelly in 2006. The ministry is as-
sisted by countless other Mt. Nebo members with a
special emphasis on youth and young adults.
The common goal of the ministry is to display to
our senior church family the reality that despite age,
they remain significant contributors and participants
to the church family. The purpose of the ministry is
to decrease feelings of isolation and depression as is
common in the general senior population; by provid-
ing opportunities for the Mt. Nebo’s senior members,
aged 50+ to come together in fellowship, education
and support with other seniors of the church.
The ministry’s first excursion was a shopping trip
to Providence Marketplace in 2006. Other day trips
to plays such as “Dream Girls”, “Joseph & The Coat
of Many Colors” and pending plans to see “The Lion
King” on May 30, 2013 each organized by Edwina
Toms. Speakers have conducted educational ses-
sions on Medicare, Advanced Directives, Power of
Attorneys, etc. to ensure the members have the most
current information. Throughout the year examples
of fellowships include BINGO, M&M Fashion Show,
and St. Patrick Day are held. Annual Day is the 2nd
Sunday of September in recognition of National
Grandparents’ Day.
We have celebrated our oldest members, Sylvester
Roland and Cerella Wiggins whose 99th
birthday was
celebrated in May 2011.
Submitted by: Clara T. Kelly
28
Mt. Nebo’s Jesus Christ Crusaders sponsored and
helped build a habitat home for a deserving family.

Northwest Parenting Resource Center
This ministry works in collaboration with the Metro-
politan Nashville Juvenile Court to provide parent
classes for families in trouble. Classes are also of-
fered for children. The community at large is wel-
come to attend, as classes offered can benefit anyone
interested in strengthening their parenting skills.
Classes last eight weeks and a certificate is given up-
on completion. A light meal is provided as well as
childcare and transportation.
Members: Cora Blakely, Sue Ward, Lorraine Brown,
Minister Mona Wylie, Patricia Jordan, Deana Hamp-
ton, Tommy Jordan, LaRonda Stewart, Vivian Ray,
Sheila Cooper, Joy Cooper, Theresa London, Karen
Stewart.
Mission:
Developing
Every
Parent
Toward
Healing
In 2009 Sheila Cooper was appointed group coordi-
nator of the Northwest Parenting Resource Center.
Under her leadership, biblical principals were blend-
ed with practical effective parenting resources and
strategies for the parent and child.
Classes are open to the community, and anyone who
is directed to or seeking effective tools for parenting
skills. Topics are lead by certified instructors. Topics
discussed are: anger management, suicide preven-
tion, child abuse, nurturing the family, healthy meals,
self-esteem, bullying, educational parenting re-
sources, and many more. Participants will increase
confidence resulting in a stronger and healthier fami-
ly bond. Free courses are offered 4-6 weeks sessions
two times a year.
Participants will increase confidence resulting in a
stronger and healthier family bond.
Submitted by Sheila Cooper
Nursery Ministry
In 1989, on a Sunday morning at Mt. Nebo, Dea-
con Clarence D. Laster approached Clara Thomas
Kelly, who was bring her young son David to church,
with the idea of starting a nursery for other mothers
like herself with babies and toddlers. After praying
over it, Clara said yes. She was then led to approach
Patricia Smith Jordan to assist in developing a setting
where infants and toddlers could be watched while
their parents enjoyed the morning service.
Before starting the Nursery Ministry, Clara sang
in the choir. She left the Nursery in the capable hands
of Patricia Jordan, who asked her two sisters – John-
nie Smith Cartmell and Elaine Smith Warren – to
help her. Evelyn Laster started helping in the Nursery
as well around that time. These ladies worked side by
side to keep the Nursery open every Sunday.
The Rickelia Bayless Nursery serves babies and small chil-
dren during the Morning Worship service.
Northwest Parenting Group
29

Other church members and mothers with children
have worked in the Nursery, and grandmothers, too!
Karen Stewart, Teresa Gilbert Williams, Lori Laster
Allen, and later on Anita Young became the caregiv-
ers to many children in the church family. All be-
came a part of our extended family. We’ve watched
some of the children grow up, and now we care for
their children! It’s like the Circle of Life.
We soon outgrew this nursery area that is now the
Usher’s Room. The present Nursery is located near
the rear of the building and has much needed space.
Rickelia Bayless expressed a desire to work in our
ministry during this time and was such a blessing for
all of us to work with. We lost her in 2012, after a
long period of illness. She truly left a hold in our
ministry, but her love and joy for the children will
never be forgotten. In her honor, the nursery was
named The Rickelia Bayless Nursery.
Cassie Perkins also was working in the Nursery
around that time and is one of an outstanding group
of ladies who give tirelessly of their time and talents
to make the Nursery what God would be pleased
with. Each child is a blessing. Over the years, there
have been outings with our parents included so that
they will feel that they are a part of our ministry. We
have our Annual Christmas Party and even our Grad-
uation Ceremony when the “little people” get old
enough to participate in Children’s Church.
In 2006, Pastor Theodore Bryson asked Patricia
Jordan if the Nursery Ministry would be in charge of
the Baby Dedication Services. The Deaconess Minis-
try had previously been over that ministry. We were
honored to share this most important even in these
2013 Nursery Staff
30
Pastor Bryson dedicates Carla and Seneca Lillard’s
young son, Christian.

families’ lives. In 2012, Tasha Steward and Valerie
Williamson, two young women in our church family,
joined our ministry. Deanna White Hampton has be-
come a regular alternative worker, helping whenever
she is available. With God’s help, our ministry has
thrived and continues to go forward. Caring for these
precious children is truly a gift from above, and we
are still standing, since 1989, when this reality was
only a dream. TO GOD BE THE GLORY!
Submitted by Deaconess Patricia Jordan
Operation Andrew
This ministry seeks to unite believers in Jesus
Christ by reaching across racial, cultural, and denom-
inational lines to express unity in the body of Christ.
Operation Andrew includes a partnership of church-
es, known as the Jericho Covenant Partnership, which
seeks to make a difference in the lives of people of all
backgrounds by doing ministry together.
Contact person: Pastor Theodore Bryson
Project C.U.R.E. (Commission of Urgent Relief
and Equipment)
This is a 501(c)3 organization headquartered in
Denver, CO which provides donated medical supplies
and equipment at no charge to raise the level of
health care in developing nations. Church members
meet at local facility to pack supplies to be shipped to
places such as Africa, Iraq, Mali, Madagascar.
Contact person: Elaine Smith Warren
Political Action Committee
This group was formed for the purpose of staying
abreast of civil matters, registering individuals to
vote, and bringing in speakers to address subjects that
may be political in nature.
Contact person: Jacqueline Coleman
Rooftop
This is a faith-based partnership of congregations
in Nashville/Davidson County which provides rental
assistance to individuals and families in need of
emergency financial help in order to prevent home-
lessness and provide hope.
Room-In-The-Inn
This ministry provides shelter, food and fellow-
ship to the homeless. It meets every second weekend
from November through March. Guests are offered
showers, supper and breakfast.
Contact person: Rosalyn Armstrong Gooch and Anita
Young
Sunday School Ministry
Purpose: To help people from all age groups to
adopt the principles of God through devoted study of
His Word, which is inclusive of a comprehensive
study of the Bible; to serve as an excellent platform
to grow closer to God; to evangelize to the lost and
disciple those who respond to the Gospel.
Present Officers:
Deborah White, General Superintendent
Children’s Department
Ronald Toms, Superintendent
Ethel Gills, Nursery and Beginners ages: 2-6
Ronald Toms, Primaries 1 and 2: ages 6-8
William Earl Laster, Juniors: ages 9-11
31
Members of the Room in the Inn Staff

Youth and Young Adult Department
Wayne Kelly, Superintendent
Barbara Talley, Teacher: Intermediates, 12-14
Min. Wanda Benson, Teacher and Marquenta Kea-
ton, Assistant Teacher: Seniors, 15-17
Gwen Bledsoe, Teacher and Johnetta Smith,
Assistant Teacher: T.C. Beene Bible Class, 18-25
Clara Kelly, Teacher: Davie Della Phillips Bible
Class, 25 up
Min. Rentonia Moore, Teacher: Singles Bible Class
Adult Department
John Dawkins, Superintendent
Mary Gordon, Teacher; Princess Gordon-Patton, As-
sistant Teacher: Alfred Thomas Bible Class
Esther Mayes, Teacher: A.L. Dement Bible Class
M.D. Smith, Teacher, Min Moore, Assistant Teacher:
Evelyn Hart Bible Class
John Dawkins, Teacher and Horace Pulse, Assistant
Teacher: S.S Page Bible Class
Tommy Jordan, Teacher, C.D. Laster New Members
Bible Class
Jack and Freda Sanford, Teachers: Couples Class
Additions adopted under current administration:
General Adult Sunday School class every 2nd
Sunday
Veronica Woodward, Children’s Leader and Mar-
quenta Neshone Keaton, Youth Leader
Mother’s Day and Father’s Day celebrations during
morning worship
Submitted by Deborah White
Singles Ministry
The Singles meet once a month during Sunday
School to address needs and concerns of single
adults.
Contact person: Minister Rentonia Moore
Travel Ministry
In 1987, an insightful member of Mt. Nebo Bap-
tist Church, Jean Davidson, had a vision to do some-
thing of interest for the children of the church on a
regular basis after a Vacation Bible School session of
which Jean Davidson was director. She talked with
Church members Dolly Woods and Edwina Toms
and it was agreed to try and plan a trip to see a
“Passion Play” in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
After consulting then pastor Rev. Dr. Gill Gordon
and Deacon Clarence D. Laster, it was approved to
begin planning. The trip was planned, money raised,
children and families ready to go; but to our disap-
pointment there was a production problem at the the-
ater, and the trip had to be canceled. Jean recognized
a need to identify ourselves as concerned youth lead-
ers, so we named the ministry “Youth Advocate
Council.”
Many trips and tours were planned, with the focus
on Religion, Education, Activities, and Development.
Some of the trips included: Atlanta, GA., to Rev.
Flemings Church, which was one of the largest Afri-
can American Churches and congregations in Atlan-
ta. The children were so excited and amazed that they
could play basketball inside the church, which had a
full size basketball court; Lake Winnipesauke, a
theme park in Chattanooga, TN.; Civil Rights Center
and Slave Haven, Museums in Memphis, TN.; Stone
Mountain Georgia to see Laser shows, train rides and
tour a museum; Cedine Bible Camp, only two boys
agreed to attend, Joshua Arnell, and David Kelly.
(David Kelly is now a teacher in the Public Schools
in South Carolina.); Boaz, AL for a Shopping trip;
Opryland Hotel for a Christmas Tour of the Conserv-
atory, decorations and Nativity Scene; Space Muse-
um in Huntsville, AL, and Washington, D.C. to tour
Sunday School Staff
32

the Capitol building and monuments. Mr. James
Scandrick, a well known musician and choir director,
was our tour guide.
In 1990, the adults of the Church expressed an in-
terest in traveling to other places, so Patricia
Studdard, Edwina Toms and Alberta Smith decided
to plan trips to include more adults of the church.
This was the beginning of the present “Travel Minis-
try.” The first trip was planned for Orlando, FL in the
summer of 2001. Planning was in progress when Pat
Studdard became ill. She had surgery shortly before
the trip and was not able to travel and some plans had
to be changed. Through miscommunication, our hotel
and bus reservations were canceled and the trip was
nearly canceled. Pastor Bryson encouraged Edwina
and Alberta to make new plans because the people
were all excited to go, had taken vacation time, and
promised other children and family members.
This proved to be quite stressful for us because of
the concern for Pat’s health and the urgency of get-
ting adequate hotel accommodations for such a large
group in a short time frame. There were two buses of
adults and children waiting to go to Orlando. Edwina
was able to make new hotel and bus accommodations
and included the “Holy Land Experience” theme
park. After careful and detailed planning no member
of the travel ministry was able to accompany the
group due to unforeseen circumstances. Pastor
Bryson suggested that we assign bus captains to each
bus to perform the duties of the ministry leaders. De-
tailed information with itinerary was given to the
drivers, hotels, travelers and bus captains. After all
of this, the trip was a real success. God was truly in
the planning and we learned so much about travel
planning.
The remarks were “Where are we going next?”
“We had a great time!”
Pat Studdard went to be with The Lord in 2003.
Edwina and Alberta decided to continue the ministry,
planning family trips that were religious, educational
and entertaining. Trips include summer of 2003, Sa-
vannah, GA. To worship with Rev. Jones, father of
our Minister of Music, Maxine Jones. We did a tour
of Savannah churches, historic sites, Tybee Island
and the Riverfront. In 2007, we traveled to Chicago,
IL. To see the Broadway play, “The Color Purple.”
We also toured the DuSable Museum, Bronzeville,
and the Navy Pier and had dinner at MacArthur’s,
the renowned soul food restaurant. In 2008, a cruise
was planned for Nassau Bahamas to worship with
Rev. William Thompson, one of the former associate
ministers at Mt. Nebo, and his congregation for the
church anniversary.
In 2011, with the aid of Diamond Tours, we
planned a trip to Washington. D. C. The White House
tour was not included nor was the Capitol Building
Tour. The Travel Team, Edwina and Alberta, got
busy calling Congressional officials and securing the
necessary information to tour both government build-
ings.
After securing the necessary information from the
travelers and affirming the dates with the different
government offices and sending all completed paper
work a year ahead of time, the wrong date was ap-
proved to tour the White House by the Bureau secre-
tary, who later admitted she made a mistake on the
paperwork. After many phone calls and negative
responses, a letter was written to the Obama Admin-
istration. We may never know if he received it or not,
Edwina Toms, Patricia Studdard & Alberta Smith (1990)
33

but Republican Senator Lamar Alexander’s secretary
started looking into the mistake after we e-mailed her
our confirmation letter stating the day we were to at-
tend. Pastor Bryson was informed of the mix-up and
made a call to the Democratic Senator Corker’s of-
fice and things started happening positively.
In the end we were able to tour the White House
and the Capitol Building, along with Arlington Cem-
etery, the Smithsonian Museum, and the Frederick
Douglas Museum. We had a wonderful experience
and we continue to learn many things while planning
each trip: Pray, be consistent, diligent, work in a
timely manner, inform yourself, and be open for
change.
In 2011, following in the footsteps of the travel
ministry, Marquenta Neshone Keaton started plan-
ning overnight trips for the youth to theme parks in
different cities, with Edwina Toms serving as mentor.
Edwina and Alberta changed their travel focus to
Adult Travel, while still helping where needed with
Neshone, Shelly Bryson De La Santos, and the Mt.
Nebo youth. In 2012, the adult group went to Cum-
berland Theater Playhouse in Crossville to see Dream
Girls and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor
Dream Coat.
Submitted by Edwina Toms and Alberta Smith
Dance Ministry
The Dance Ministry was initiated by Katea Jones
who taught liturgical dance to a group of girls ages
11-13, using dance and sign. She named the group
“Hands of Worship.” After several years, she moved
her membership to another church and the group
came under the direction of Freda Sanford, Jackie
Coleman and Edwina Toms. The Dance Ministry
grew and was divided into three groups, ages 5-18.
The name was changed to include all groups and ag-
es: Teens, “Visions of Praise”: Juniors, “Praise in
Motion”; and Youth, “Faith in Motion.” With the in-
crease of dancers another adviser was added, Abrie
Nickerson, who also serves as a seamstress for the
group.
Submitted by Edwina Toms
34
Mt. Nebo’s Liturgical Dancers are grouped by age

Youth and Young Adult Ministry
This ministry seek to address the concerns of
youth and young adults. They also sponsor Children’s
Church and Youth Church on the 2nd
and 5th
Sundays.
Contact person: Thomas Kelly and Markeisha Wash-
ington
Willing Workers
This group sponsors exercise classes and walking
as means to stay healthy and fit. This group also offers
periodic blood pressure screenings and health fairs.
Contact person: Elaine Smith Warren
True Love Waits
This ministry offers week-long classes to youth
annually to encourage abstinence. A ring ceremony at
which youth pledge themselves to abstinence is held at
the end of the session.
Contact person: Stephanie Patterson
Family Caregiver Support Group
Group is open to any Caregiver, primarily African
American, regardless of their affiliation with Mt. Ne-
bo Baptist Church to allow them to express their feel-
ings and concerns in an nonjudgmental and supportive
environment. The group originated in May 2008 pri-
marily meeting twice weekly, (12:00 noon each Mon-
day for non-working caregivers and again at 7:00 p.m.
for working caregivers). Beginning in 2009, the group
met monthly, currently each 3rd
Tuesday, 6-7:00 p.m.
Mission: Informal support group meeting
monthly (with exception of November-February) with
those individuals who are caring for loved ones. Typi-
cally these caregivers are significantly stressed physi-
cally, emotionally, mentally, and financially and often
are attempting to provide the best care they can to
their loved one. Realizing that if the caregiver isn’t
provided the necessary support it is highly likely the
one receiving care will be institutionalized earlier than
planned. The Family Caregiver Support Group focus-
es on educational, informational, support and encour-
agement to the Caregiver in hope of providing the
Caregiver the necessary tools to continue in their cur-
rent role. November is National Family Caregiver
Support Month – at this time the group has a celebra-
tion to acknowledge their accomplishments.
Developed and Facilitated by Clara Kelly
Joseph’s Vision - Red Cross Disaster Ministry
In collaboration with the Nashville Chapter of the
American Red Cross, Mt. Nebo Baptist Church is a
registered shelter in the event of a national or local
emergency. Mt. Nebo was initially utilized as a Red
Cross Shelter during Hurricane Katrina followed by
Hurricane Rita both in 2005, then Hurricane Gustav in
2008. We have also partnered with the Red Cross
during the Clifton Avenue apartment fire in March
2012 and as a cooling station during the intensely hot
summers. Many of Mt. Nebo family members have
attended classes in shelter management, etc. at the Red
Cross in the event we are needed during a local or na-
tional emergency.
Contacts: Clara T. Kelly & Tommy Jordan, Sr.
Members of 2011 Usher Boards 1, 2 & 3
2012 Youth and Young Adult Ministry
35

Rev. John T. Gilbert was born March 13, 1915 in Giles County, TN. He accepted
the Lord in 1934, at the age of 19. He shared with others the story of his “second
birth,” saying, “You must be, you have got to be born again.” Beginning in 1967, Rev.
Gilbert preached his annual sermon, “God Keeps His Promises.” He served as the As-
sistant to Pastors Rev. Dr. Gill H. Gordon, Sr., and Rev. Dr. Theodore H. Bryson, Sr.
He led Bible Study for many years, and at the age of 80, in 1995, he was still exempli-
fying Christian service to God, Mt. Nebo, and his neighbors in the community. Rev.
Gilbert and his wife, Ella B. Gilbert, had an open door policy at their home and didn’t
mind sharing their love and guidance with anyone who needed them.
Ella Gilbert, affectionately known as “Mama Gilbert,” was born October 7, 1910 in Cross Plains, TN. She
was well known throughout the community for her beautiful vocals. She used to say, “I’m on my way to
heaven and enjoying the trip.” On July 18, 2001, it seemed that the enemy had his way when she was violently
attacked and murdered at the hands of a young woman who was under the influence of drugs. The woman saw
Mama Gilbert tending to flowers in the yard and asked her for a drink of water. When Mama Gilbert went inside
to get the water, the woman followed her into her home in an effort to rob her. The
woman beat her to death, shocking the sensibilities of the entire community. A Metro
Police Detective made solving this case his personal mission. He came to Mt. Nebo
and vowed that he would not stop until he brought her murderer to justice. A few
weeks later, a young woman was arrested and charged with the brutal death of this
seasoned saint.
Mama Gilbert spoke often of how she went to a prison to see the young man who mur-
dered her son in Chicago. During that visit, she forgave her son’s killer. Following her
example after her death, Pastor Bryson and a group of church members drove to the
women’s prison in Memphis to visit the young woman who killed her. As a result, the
young woman wrote a letter to the church and asked for forgiveness. Although she
remains incarcerated, at this writing the young woman has changed her life.
Inspirations from the Past
“God Keeps His Promise” …
“I’m on My Way to Heaven” ...
36

Jane E. Benson-Fort was born in 1871, the year her fa-
ther, the Reverend Pharaoh H. Benson, founded Mt.
Nebo Church. Jane, named for her grandmother who
lived in Columbia, TN, was sent to live with her grand-
mother for several years “to cheer her until her death.”
Jane attended Fisk University, where she prepared for
a teaching career. She married William H. Fort, Sr., who
taught at Fisk University and was the Director of the Ex-
tension Department at Langston University in Oklahoma
when he died in 1935. Their son, William, Jr., graduated
from Fisk at an early age, and at the time of his mother’s
death was the General Manager of the Andrew Jackson
Court Housing Project in North Nashville.
For several years, Jane was principal of Peebles
School in North Nashville. After years of ill health, she
died on the morning of Aug. 18, 1938 from a heart attack.
The Forts were devoted members of First Baptist Church,
Eighth Avenue, under the pastorate of Rev. R.C. Barbour.
Friends, students, and teachers from Peebles School and
all across the city at-
tended her funeral to
pay tribute to the
memory of this great
educator.
Rev. W.S. Elming-
ton, her former pastor
and a lifelong friend of
the family, gave the eu-
logy. She had asked that
Revelations 14:13 be the
theme.
“Thus closed the
book of her life, so useful and her work completed, de-
serving this plaudit — “Well Done.”
— From the Program of the Obsequies of Mrs. W.H. Fort
(Tennessee State Library and Archives).
Jane E. Benson-Fort
Mt. Nebo’s First Daughter Dedicated Life to Education
Annie Laura Dement, a past
member of our Mt. Nebo
family, left her gift of love to us
when she departed this life. Mrs.
Dement was a very active, con-
cerned, and faithful member of
Mt. Nebo Baptist Church. She
taught in the public school system
in Tennessee, as well as in Mis-
souri, where she later retired.
Upon her return to Nashville and to Mt. Nebo, she
continued serving the LORD by being an active choir
member; Superintendent of the Home Department,
where her Thursdays were spent spreading the WORD
to the homebound members; Superintendent of Vaca-
tion Bible School, and she also as a Sunday School
teacher.
Mrs. Dement’s love for teaching and her concern for
the youth at Mt. Nebo led her to still give of herself.
She left behind her legacy in the form of a scholarship
to help the deserving youth of Mt. Nebo to further their
education and to achieve their goals of securing a bet-
ter future through a sound education.
For this purpose, the ANNIE LAURA DEMENT
SCHOLARSHIP FUND was instituted by her de-
voted nephew, the late Deacon Clarence D. Laster.
The fund is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and is
now governed by: Edwina Toms, President; Deborah
White, Vice President; Roslyn J. Armstrong, Secre-
tary; Barbara Smith, Treasurer; and Frank C. Davis,
Advisor. High school graduates headed to college are
eligible to apply and receive funds, which are distribut-
ed annually.
Annie L. Dement
Annie Laura Dement Scholarship Fund

P.O. Box 23377 • Nashville, Tennessee 37209

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