MDA History

In 1986, Bro. J.C. Thomas took a leap of faith and planted a new congregation in Richmond, CA with the vision of creating an incubator for spiritual growth—“Where Everybody Is Somebody.” The church grew quickly, strengthened by solid biblical preaching, Spirit-filled worship, and a deeply connected fellowship that formed bonds both deep and wide. After nearly a decade of remarkable service, Bro. Thomas, his wife Glenda, and their family were led by God to continue serving elsewhere.

In the mid-90s, Bro. James Austin accepted the call to serve as Senior Minister of MDACOC. Under his leadership, Elders and Deacons were ordained, ministries expanded, and the impact of the congregation became firmly woven into the fabric of the Richmond community and the greater Bay Area. Supported by his wife Gale, Bro. Austin developed a national reputation as both a dynamic preacher and a visionary leader. He intentionally nurtured an intergenerational church, ensuring that his tenure would be marked not only by present accomplishments but by a lasting legacy for generations to come.

In December 2021, Bro. Austin passed the leadership baton to one of his ministerial protégés, Bro. Stacy Jones. Bro. Jones has provided steady post-pandemic leadership, guiding the congregation into a renewed season of growth and expansion. With a commitment to ministering to the whole person, he seeks to build upon the strong foundation laid by his predecessors by cultivating a culture of discipleship and spiritual maturity across our entire faith community. Through themes such as “Level Up,” “Rooted,” and “Growing, Glowing, and Going,” Bro. Jones—supported by his wife Nedra—is devoted to leading MDACOC to higher heights for the honor and glory of God.

Join us every Sunday as we gather to worship together a 10:15 am and 11:15 am.