For Columbia prepares for annual day of serving | Mid-Missouri News [Video]

MCBAINE — In its 10th anniversary, For Columbia is holding its annual day of serving at the end of the month. Groups of volunteers will be servicing and cleaning up around 90 locations throughout Columbia. One of the areas chosen this year is an historical site that continues a legacy for many African American families.

A church building on Mount Celestial Road in Columbia was once a pillar of faith, hope and love for many African American families. 

“The one room church, the choir log, the pulpit, the pews,” Ranita Warren-Norwood recalled.

The three acres in McBaine was a second home for Norwood.

“I’ve never been one of those that have run to the top of the hill of the cemetery. I was always to scared,” she said.

Mt. Celestial Baptist Church was built in the 1800s, and Warren-Norwood’s’ father, Ray Warren, was the pastor for 42 years.

Following in …