The Market Street Seventh-day Adventist Church in Oakland, California, has a rich history rooted in faith, community, and service. Established in November 1923, the church was founded by three visionary women—Louraine Vanderburg Mitchell, Marie Kisack, and Gertrude Drake—who sought to create a space for Black Seventh-day Adventists in the Bay Area .
In 1924, the church acquired the building at the corner of 34th and Market Streets, previously home to Grace Methodist Episcopal Church . The church’s first pastor, Elder Owen A. Troy, began his ministry there in 1924.
Over the years, Market Street Church has been a beacon of hope and service in the community. In 2023, the church celebrated its 100th anniversary with a series of events under the theme “Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, and Preparing for the Kingdom,” highlighting its enduring legacy in the African American community.
Today, the church continues its mission through various ministries, including the C.O.R.E. (Community Outreach Resource and Education) House, which offers classes, counseling, and community services to support spiritual and personal growth.
The Market Street Seventh-day Adventist Church remains a testament to the vision and dedication of its founders, serving as a spiritual home and a center for community engagement in Oakland.
