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Our founder, the late Pastor Nelson Davis, was born in 1922 in Monroe, Louisiana and was baptized at the age of 11. He enlisted in the armed forces at 21 and while on the battlefield in France during World War II, the Lord spoke to him and called him to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. In 1946, he came to California (with fifty cents in his pocket) and united with the Solid Rock Baptist Church of Oakland, under the leadership of the Rev. C.A. Washington. While at Solid Rock in 1947, Pastor Davis met and married the lovely Lorene Bishop.  

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After his ordination as a minister of the gospel and serving as a junior minister at Solid Rock for two years, Pastor Davis was called to shepherd the Floyd Chapel Community Church in Vallejo, CA,.  He remained at Floyd Chapel for one year, then in 1952, the Holy Spirit led Pastor Davis to organize the Greater New Mount Hermon Baptist Church with 3 members – his wife, Sis. Lorene Davis, his sister-in-law, Sis. Doris Bishop and borrowed member, Sis. Viola Taylor.  He retired after 27 years of employment with the city of Oakland to devote himself full-time to the ministry.  He remained our faithful and devoted shepherd for 60 years.

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Pastor and Lady Lorene Davis were married for 62 years and together they raised one son (who preceded them in death) and eight daughters in the fear and admonition of the Lord. Lady Lorene Davis, left this earthly home in 2009. Reverend Davis persevered and continued preaching and teaching the gospel.  He continued to Trust in the Lord  and give of himself to his church. Pastor Davis transitioned from this life and rejoined his bride in their eternal home in 2012.

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This exceptional man of God was faithful to the call on his life.  He consistently sacrificed himself and his resources for the betterment of the Greater New Mount Hermon Baptist Church.  He led an extraordinary life of courage, conviction and commitment. He was a prophet, preacher and teacher who left a legacy of integrity to his church family and the greater church community.

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