Editor's note: Senior Pastor N.L. Robinson died on April 28, 2017 at the age of 96.

 Under the leadership of Senior Pastor Norman Robinson, Mount Olive Baptist Church has grown to become one of the most well-known institutions in the city, if not, the region.

Rev. Robinson, 94, began pastoring the church 49 years ago with only 17 attending members. Now the church membership has grown to more than 12,000. Robinson expects to church to sustain its growth in the coming years.

"I'm just a preacher with a dream and I'm still dreaming," he said.

July 12 will be a big Sunday for Mount Olive Baptist Church as parishioners, community members and clergy trained by Robinson celebrate this icon's service.

Over the years, Rev. Robinson has received a key to the City of Arlington for his years of service to his congregation and community. In July, 1992, North West Street north of Division Street was renamed 'N.L. Robinson Drive' by the City of Arlington.

Listen to his American Dream Story and see what makes Mount Olive Baptist Church such an inviting place.

To see more American Dream stories, click here.

Related articles:

• A Look Back on the Life of Mount Olive Baptist Church Senior Pastor N.L. Robinson

• Mount Olive Celebrates Milestone Birthday With Arlington Icon N.L. Robinson