It was humble beginning that eventually led to the formation and organization of Saint Mary Missionary Baptist Church. In 1915 a group of worshipers under the leadership of Frank Mosley organized the first church, which was located in Hopewell. 

Some of the first pioneers were Deacons, Nathan George, Eddie Mooney, Reed Broadnax (First Superintendent of Sunday School), Melvin Guin and Arthur Ingram (First Deacon Ordained at Saint Mary). In 1948, under the leadership of J. E. Harmon and James Scantling, the church moved from Hopwell to the present location. 

A visionary, Rev Scantling facilitated the remodeling of Saint Mary to accommodate rapid growth in membership.  Finally in 1996 with “Growing, Glowing, and Going” as his motto, Rev. Dr. Shafter E. Scott continued to provide spiritual leadership to the Saint Mary Missionary Baptist Church family into the 21st Century.