MOSES was officially incorporated in 1997 by the member congregations of three previously existing non-profit 501(c)3 community organizations in the Detroit area, known as West Detroit Inter-Faith Community Organization (WDIFCO), Jeremiah Project, and Northeast Organization Allied for Hope (NOAH).

Each of these separate organizations was working to improve the quality of life in neighborhoods where their members lived. However, as their work increased and their understanding of the democratic process deepened, members of these organizations became increasingly aware that decisions affecting their daily lives were being made at levels far beyond their reach. So, they came together to form a wider, more powerful entity, which today is known as MOSES.

While continuing to maintain the same grassroots, faith-based principles of these earlier organizations, MOSES has since expanded its membership from congregations of the central city to include congregations and other institutions throughout Detroit and its suburbs.

Currently, MOSES is graced by the membership of 38 congregations and 15 organizations & institutions of higher learning.

With its expanded roster and influence, MOSES is able not only able to concentrate on neighborhood concerns, such as community reinvestment and safety, but addresses larger systemic problems, such as urban sprawl, lack of affordable housing, lack of adequate transportation and education, infringement upon the civil rights of immigrants, land use, and blight.

Today, MOSES is a diverse and vibrant organization that continues to reflect the racial, economic, and ethnic diversity of Metropolitan Detroit.