History of mt. Zion Baptist Church

In 1942, Rev. Noah N. Jiles was moved by the voice of God to organize the Mt. Zion Baptist Church of San Francisco, California.  Beside him was his wife Clara Jiles and a few dedicated followers.  The first place of worship was at 2226 Fillmore St., San Francisco, CA.  With the congregation growing, a new location was secured at 1643 O' Farrell St., in the city of San Francisco.  With continuous growth, Pastor Jiles led Mt. Zion to 1554 Ellis Street, San Francisco, CA, in 1947. In the early 1950's the Mt. Zion Baptist Church made its first purchase of a church building, which was the Ellis Street Theatre at 1671 Ellis St., San Francisco, CA.  In 1974, Mt. Zion relocated to its present location at 1321 Oak Street, San Francisco, CA.  Under Pastor Jiles, the music ministry consisted of just over 150 voices, an effective Women's Mission grew with Sister Lydie Clark Conner as President, the Sunday School grew and was developed under Sunday School Superintendent Rev. Salem Smith, and much ministry was done.  Pastor Jiles was a faithful Servant/Pastor until the Lord called him home on July 11, 1959.  Following the passing of Pastor Jiles, the following Pastors served gracefully, including Pastor T.R. Provost, Pastor Marshall Polk, Pastor Clarence O'Bannon, Pastor Terry L. Thomas, Pastor Shadrick Riddick, Interim Pastor Hurley Thompson, Interim Pastor Terrence Nichols, long serving Pastor Rev Edwin Watkins, and Pastor Clayton Casson.  Rev Watkins blessed Mt. Zion with the longest tenure of service, serving over 25 years.  Rev. Watkins is credited for instilling evangelism, community ministry, adding to the church, and contributing to the development of the Mt. Zion Baptist District Association. 

On June 1, 2025, the Lord called Rev. Dr. Ovester Armstrong Jr. as the 9th Pastor of Mt. Zion Baptist Church.  God continues to bless the mission and ministry of Mt. Zion Baptist Church as we move forward in serving the Lord.