Reverend Dr. Luke Mitchell, Jr. is a native Washingtonian with roots in South Carolina. He is the first of four sons born to the union of Rev. Dr. Luke Mitchell, Sr. and Fannie M. Mitchell. He is a product of the public schools of the District of Columbia. He attended the University of the District of Columbia, Maryland University-University College and is a 1985 Theological graduate of the Washington Baptist Seminary in Washington, D.C. Rev. Mitchell earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Religion and Master of Divinity Degree from Richmond Virginia Seminary in Richmond, Virginia. He pursued and earned the Doctor of Ministry Degree, which was conferred upon him in 2002. His dissertation was entitled "Cremation: A Choice in an Independent African American Baptist Church Community." It included extensive research about cremation and burial rituals in the African American Community.

Because of is faithful and relentless commitment to excellence, he has been the recipient of many awards and honorary degrees. His degrees include an Honorary Doctorate Degree from a Historically Black College (HBCU), Virginia University of Lynchburg, formally known as Virginia Seminary College.

Pastor Mitchell is an ardent lover of music and has served on musical staffs of various churches throughout the Metropolitan area and served as music chairman for the 1000 voice citywide Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Observance Choir. Under Pastor Mitchell's direction, New Mount Olive Baptist Church is credited with two live recordings: "He'll Make It Alright" and "Rev. Luke Mitchell, Jr. and the Workshop Choir featuring Chuck Brown." In June, 1996, the Workshop Choir was the First Place winner of the Quaker Oats Gospel Feast.

Since Pastor Mitchell arrived at New Mount Olive, he has introduced many innovative ministries and programs. He is credited with founding two very special annual days here: "Awards Day" is observed during our church anniversary. The "Eagle" is the highest service award and is presented to members who have accepted the challenge. The "Sparrow" is presented to those persons who are consistently supportive of the ministries and activities at New Mount Olive. "Super Sunday," since its inception in May, 1990, is observed the day before Memorial Day, at New Mount Olive. This weekend which includes social and religious activities concludes on Sunday with continuous preaching, worshiping and praising God until midnight. These services are led by pastors and their congregations from various States across the U.S.A. and the District of Columbia.

The God given vision through Pastor Mitchell is "Oliveland." The scope of Oliveland is to create a consecrated community of believers whose ultimate goal is to give "life to life." A community that will be a visible witness to the world in its pursuit of excellence in ministry. Under "Oliveland" is the Office of Social and Community Services, whose mission is to assist in meeting the needs of those who require counseling and other social service assistance. The Book and Gift Shop's mission is to research and purchase inventory at wholesale prices whereby saving us time and money by obtaining necessary materials, Bibles, commentaries, inspirational items for the convenience of our Bible Institute, college and members. The New Mount Olive Community College, the first community college to successfully organize in the District of Columbia, a school of ministry and technology.

We are currently preparing for a building project that will expand educational facilities and opportunities for the community at large to receive an education.

We have grown spiritually, numerically, financially and in love. We anticipate more improvements and await further guidance from God through the leadership of Pastor Mitchell.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY!