Mission: To Connect People Who Have the Desire To Become Fully Devoted Followers of Jesus Christ Zion Baptist Church was organized in 1867 in Stafford County, Virginia with 30 members. In 1873, the Church body separated into two congregations after a dispute over the location for a new site. Under court arbitration, one congregation was named First Mount Zion and the other retained the name of Mo
unt Zion. In 1947 First Mount Zion relocated to its present location, in Dumfries, after the War Department incorporated the land (Quantico Marine Corps Base) upon which the Church occupied. Initially, worshipservices were held only once a month, later twice a month and in 1965 services were held every Sunday. Augustus Thomas Gaskins accepted the Church's call as Pastor and served for 33 years until June 1995. He was elevated to the newly established position of Pastor Emeritus. In June 1995, the Church called the Rev. Torian as their first full-time pastor. Under Pastor Torian's leadership, the membership of First Mount Zion Baptist Church grew steadily and now exceeds3,400 members. Dr. Torian's service to FMZ has been highlighted by many significant accomplishments. Specifically, he was instrumental in helping the membership embrace God's vision. Under his leadership, the church has grown from 650 members to a congregation of over 4000 members. This growth has led to the development of approximately 70 different ministries that operate in anew multi-million dollar 108,000 square foot sanctuary and multi-purpose facility. Under Dr. Torian’s leadership, First Mount Zion Baptist Church adopted its mission statement: “To Connect People Who Have a Desire To Become Fully Devoted Followers of Jesus Christ”. Over the years, First Mount Zion has grown both in size and influence, becoming a cornerstone of the community. The church serves not only as a place of worship but also as a center for social justice and community outreach. Its members are actively involved in advocating for civil rights and addressing the pressing issues of our time. Pastor Torian faithfully served the congregation for 28 ½ years, retiring on December 31, 2023. During the pastoral selection process following Dr. Torian's retirement, Rev. Dr. Sandra K. James served as the Acting Pastor. On September 13, 2025, she was elected as First Mount Zion's next pastor. Dr. James was the longest-serving Assistant Pastor in First Mount Zion history (August 2003-April 2024). As Acting Pastor, she continued to shepherd and grow the congregation through her dynamic and engaging leadership, pastoral care, preaching, and teaching. Pastor-elect James's installation service as the 11th pastor of First Mount Zion on November 22, 2025 marks the beginning of the next era of ministry as she continues to lead the congregation in service, study, stewardship, and worship - the powerful legacy of First Mount Zion continues. Vision: “Sharing the Light: From the Promise, to Pentecost, to Points Around the World.”
