About Us:

HISTORY

Prior to 1866, Blacks, most of whom were former slaves, were members of the First Baptist Church of Marietta.  From the early 1860's several attempts were made to provide for separate worship services such as a separate conference and a separate place of worship.  However, in each case, a white representative was to be present.

In 1866, letters of dismissal were granted to eighty-eight (88) black members for the purpose of constituting a separate Baptist Church; thus, Zion Baptist Church was organized April 8, 1866 with Reverend Ephraim B. Rucker as Pastor.  Two week later, the first Sunday school was organized.  The present brick structure was erected under the leadership of Zion's third pastor, Rev. C. G. Holmes.  Over the next eight years, the church walls were finished, a new roof was added, new pews were installed, a new bell tower was completed, and a 1600-pound church bell was installed. 

The ushering in of the twentieth century brought many new additions to Zion.  The senior choir was organized around 1900 and soon afterwards, the church parsonage was purchased and the baptismal was installed.

The church began to grow stronger spiritually over the next few years and several auxiliaries were formed and additions made through the leadership of nine pastors during this period.  In 1954, Rev. J. R. Cook, a matchless preacher, energetic leader, and social reformer came to pastor Zion.  Under his leadership many improvements were made in the physical facility, the worship format was changed, modern equipment was purchased, bible classes began, a youth choir was organized, and the congregation grew to 380 members.

On August 7, 1960, Rev. R. L. Johnson was called as Zion's 22nd pastor and over the next 31 years, Zion took its rightful place among social institutions in Marietta.  Additional property was acquired in the immediate vicinity of the church, and in 1977, a new sanctuary with fellowship hall was constructed on Lemon Street.

On Sunday, November 29, 1992, Rev. Harris T. Travis was installed as Zion's 23rd pastor.  Under his leadership the Sunday morning early service was initiated and a new educational wing was constructed in 1998.  Many other organizations have been formed under Pastor Travis’ leadership such as the Men’s Choir, Women’s Ministry, Deacon ‘Shepherding Program’, Substance Abuse Ministry, Outreach Ministry, Tape Ministry, and Ministers Wives and Widows.  Also, the Old Zion structure was restored and entered into the National Registry of Historical places.

Zion has been truly blessed thus far.  Our membership now numbers over 1,200 and we remain a leader in the Marietta and Cobb County areas.  Other churches, social and civic organizations look to Zion for leadership on all occasions and we continue to play an active role in the community.