Exxpose Magazine 24 | Page 11

Exxpose: Why is it important to have religion even in the industry? Pastor Johnson: If you don’t keep God first and in the midst of your life, everything that you do will inevitably go up in smoke. I personally know that if you haven’t had a chance to meet Christ—Mount Olive Baptist Church is the perfect place to meet God. Right here at 1701 Estalote Street in Harvey. We have services every Sunday morning at 9am. I guarantee that you will leave with your heart on fire! My father, Pastor Johnson pastored for more than 40 years. He passed at the age of 93. I, myself, Pastor Ricky Johnson was blessed to pastor along side him, for the last 10 years of his father’s life. The Tradition of our legacy is this... In 1963 my father was ordained by a Rev. Samuel Jones in a place called Wellum Place (a plantation). A few blocks from there, a Church named “College Grove was a worship spot, we were not always free.” College Grove is now on the property of the LSU museum. Many times, as an intricate part of our Black History celebration, our congregation frequents the old church onsite of the LSU museum. Be sure to visit the artifacts @ www.LSURuralLife.com in Baton Rouge. Exxpose: Why is it that Mount Olive Baptist Church takes an interest in doing extracurricular activities and events? Pastor Johnson: To let people we are not only here to have church, but as well to service the community outside of the church. In addition, every Wednesday after service we inquire to learn about what going on within the community, this way we as a church can make ourselves available to the community and let them know that we are here for them as well. Exxpose: You will not only leave with your heart on fire, but you may as well leave with your stomach filled. Because, this congregation is all about family and showing love to its members and visitors. Pastor Ricky Johnson and his lovely wife as well as their kids and congregation are all very genuine and will welcome you with open arms to Mount Olive Baptist Church. In many cases, when hosting special events at Mount Olive Baptist Church, service concludes with a wide array of culinary cuisine and southern hospitality. Be sure to visit the artifacts @ www.LSURuralLife.com in Baton Rouge. 14 Exxpose Magazine Exxpose Magazine 11