Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, whose previous facility in downtown Ocala was demolished to make way for the city’s second parking garage, is asking local residents for support as it faces a significant financial shortfall in the construction of its new sanctuary.
The congregation has established a GoFundMe campaign to bridge a $500,000 gap caused by a combination of construction delays, material shortages, and soaring labor costs. As of Wednesday, the GoFundMe page has raised approximately $3,195 toward a $16,000 requested portion of the overall need.
While the congregation waits for the completion of their new home, they are temporarily hosting services at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center, located at 1821 NW 21st Avenue.
Founded in 1867 by Reverend Samuel Small and 90 individuals who had been freed by the Emancipation Proclamation, Mt. Moriah was the first black Baptist congregation established in Ocala…