A historic African-American church still hopes to rebuild after an arson in 2012.
Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, located at 15008 Lee Highway in Gainesville was the scene of arson in 2012. Parishioners watched helplessly as the church was nearly reduced to ashes.
Maurice Michaely, of Haymarket, received a two and a half year prison sentence for the crime.
Today, the church is slowly but surely making its way back to life.
Founded in 1877, the church had been the centerpiece of a settlement established in Gainesville by former slaves after emancipation. On August 10, 2012, as a result of arson.
Recently, during an online meeting of the Prince William Conservation Alliance to Save Carver Road, Deacon Henry Peterson gave an update on the church’s efforts to raise money to rebuild Mount Pleasant. The church plans to rebuild in seven phases for which they’ve already raised over $60,000.
Peterson also said that an additional $1 million needs to be raised in order to complete all phases of construction.
Mount Pleasant has been accepting donations for the rebuild as well as relying on a GoFundMe page to accept online donations.
Events such as the police shooting of George Floyd have inspired a recent boost in donations, as have appealed from Virginia Delegate Danica Roem.
While no final date of completion has been set, the church does plan to use two bibles that survived the fire as the centerpiece of the new building.
Recently Mount Pleasant along with the Shady Inn Dance Hall, which is now Golden Church of God, Â and the settlement itself was designated as historic sites by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources.
According to its website, after Mount Pleasant had been established in 1877 it was moved to its current location after the congregation paid $10 for the property on which it now sits. The original building had been destroyed by fire in 1929 and their current building had been constructed that same year.
The congregation of Mount Pleasant has a temporary location at Northern Virginia Baptist Center which is located at 14019 Glenkirk Road in Gainesville.
The church plans to have a birthday event for parishioners to raise donations for rebuilding on November 11.
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? A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras! ?
?? Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
