Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction 100th Anniversary Commemorative Book by trhargett

This publication is the collected history of the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction. The pages are filled with church histories illustrating the struggles, trials, and accomplishments of the Saints who chose holiness from the early 1900s to the present. It is the hope of the committee that every reader will be enlightened, inspired and encouraged by the perseverance and successes of the churches within our jurisdiction. Dr. Goldie Frinks Wells 100th Commemorative Publication Chairperson 2021

Publication Committee ................................................................................................................................ 3 Forward....................................................................................................................................................... 4 Letters From the Office of The Presiding Bishop............................................................................................................. 5 International Department of Women ................................................................................................................. 6 Office of The Jurisdictional Bishop ...................................................................................................................... 7 Department of Women Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction ............................................................................. 8 The Greater North Carolina Logo ................................................................................................................. 9 Explanation of Logo ....................................................................................................................................10 History of Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction ........................................................................................ 11-13 Our Founders – Those Who Established the Early Churches Father Aaron Bazemore .................................................................................................................................... 15 Elder A.B. Malone .............................................................................................................................................. 16 Elder J.C. Griffin ................................................................................................................................................. 17 Bishop E.J. Perkin............................................................................................................................................... 18 Elder Herbert Purkett ........................................................................................................................................ 19 Elder Jonnie Sawyer and Mother Martha Sawyer ............................................................................................ 20 Superintendent James S. Spruill ........................................................................................................................ 21 Bishops and Overseers of Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction Overseer Thomas Samuel.................................................................................................................................. 22 Overseer A.J. Reid.............................................................................................................................................. 22 Overseer R.N. Johnson, Sr. ................................................................................................................................ 22 Bishop Wyoming Wells...................................................................................................................................... 23 Bishop Leo B. Davenport ................................................................................................................................... 24 Bishop Leroy J. Woolard .................................................................................................................................... 25 State Mothers and Supervisors of Greater North Carolina Mother Mary Powell ......................................................................................................................................... 26 Mother Emma Clemmons ................................................................................................................................. 26 Mother Frances Anderson................................................................................................................................. 26 Mother Estella McEwen .................................................................................................................................... 26 Mother Johnnie Mae McCants .......................................................................................................................... 27 Mother Mary L. Green....................................................................................................................................... 27 Mother Harrizene Keyes.................................................................................................................................... 27

COGIC Academy..........................................................................................................................................28 History of the Churches in Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction (in Chronological Order) Bazemore Temple......................................................................................................................................... 30-32 Edenton Church of God in Christ .................................................................................................................. 33-34 St. Paul (Tyner, NC)....................................................................................................................................... 35-36 Davenport Temple ....................................................................................................................................... 37-38 Pentecostal Temple ...................................................................................................................................... 39-44 Refreshing Wells ................................................................................................................................................ 45 New Saints Delight ....................................................................................................................................... 46-47 Wells Memorial ............................................................................................................................................ 48-49 Wells Chapel ................................................................................................................................................. 50-52 Spruill Temple ............................................................................................................................................... 53-54 Smith Temple ............................................................................................................................................... 55-56 Pemberton Temple....................................................................................................................................... 57-58 Temple Church ............................................................................................................................................. 59-61 River of Life ................................................................................................................................................... 62-63 St. Paul (Rocky Mount) ................................................................................................................................. 64-65 Williams Memorial ....................................................................................................................................... 66-67 Sycamore Temple ......................................................................................................................................... 68-69 Greater Harvest Fellowship .......................................................................................................................... 70-71 Garden of Eden.................................................................................................................................................. 72 Eastern Star .................................................................................................................................................. 73-74 Grace Fellowship .......................................................................................................................................... 75-76 Rescue Temple #1 ........................................................................................................................................ 77-79 New Horizon ................................................................................................................................................. 80-83 Hoggard’s Temple......................................................................................................................................... 84-85 Refreshing Center .............................................................................................................................................. 86 Moore Memorial .......................................................................................................................................... 87-88 New Bethel ................................................................................................................................................... 89-90 New Life Deliverance Center ........................................................................................................................ 91-92 Greater Faith Deliverance Center ................................................................................................................ 93-94 Prayer and Faith Temple .............................................................................................................................. 95-96 Sutton Temple ................................................................................................................................................... 97 Rescue Temple #2 ............................................................................................................................................. 98 Lloyd’s Chapel ............................................................................................................................................. 99-100 Revival Temple ......................................................................................................................................... 101-102

People’s Faith .................................................................................................................................................. 103 Bibleway .......................................................................................................................................................... 104 Lighthouse ................................................................................................................................................ 105-106 Temple of Prayer ............................................................................................................................................. 107 Nu-Life Ministries ..................................................................................................................................... 108-109 Holy Temple..................................................................................................................................................... 110 Shiloh Holiness ................................................................................................................................................ 111 Grace Temple .................................................................................................................................................. 112 True Way Holiness .................................................................................................................................... 113-114 Victory Temple ......................................................................................................................................... 115-116 Holy Mission .................................................................................................................................................... 117 House of Prayer ........................................................................................................................................ 118-119 New Covenant Ministries ......................................................................................................................... 120-121 New Dimension ............................................................................................................................................... 122 God’s Tabernacle ...................................................................................................................................... 123-124 Holy Assembly .......................................................................................................................................... 125-126 Good Shepherd................................................................................................................................................ 127 St. Mark ........................................................................................................................................................... 128 Bethel .............................................................................................................................................................. 129 Voices of Evangelism ................................................................................................................................ 130-132 True Way ......................................................................................................................................................... 133 First Church .............................................................................................................................................. 134-135 Soul Chain ................................................................................................................................................. 136-137 Metrolina Christian Center ....................................................................................................................... 138-139 Faith Harvest ................................................................................................................................................... 140 New Hope ........................................................................................................................................................ 141 New Mount Zion....................................................................................................................................... 142-143 Deliverance Temple .................................................................................................................................. 144-145 Greater Faith and Love Ministry ..................................................................................................................... 146 New Beginning................................................................................................................................................. 147 Enduring Praise................................................................................................................................................ 148 Providence ................................................................................................................................................ 149-150 New Harvest .................................................................................................................................................... 151 House of Another Chance ........................................................................................................................ 152-153 Breakthrough Ministries........................................................................................................................... 154-155 Faith Tabernacle .............................................................................................................................................. 156

Triad Ministries................................................................................................................................................ 157 True Light Tabernacle ...................................................................................................................................... 158 Prayer Tabernacle ........................................................................................................................................... 159 New Beginning Temple of Faith ...................................................................................................................... 160 Amazing Grace................................................................................................................................................. 161 Churches Birthed Out of the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction ............................................................... 162 Lest We Forget ......................................................................................................................................... 163 Hebrews 12:14 Explanation ...................................................................................................................... 164

100TH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORA a TIVE PUBLICATION COMMITTt EE HISTORY TEAM

Dr. Goldie F. Wells

Dr. Mable Scott

Dr. Michael Bridgers

Dr. Adrienne Israel

Evangelist Ryan Keyes

Elder Corey Torain

GRAPHICS, EDITING, & TYPESETTING TEAM

Dr. Tonya R. Hargett

Missionary Angela Nicholson

Missionary Darlene Primas

Sis. Jackie Mason

LOGISTICS LEADERSHIP

Supervisor Harrizene Keyes

Bishop Tommie Murphy

Lady Vanessa Cox

FORWARD Congratulations to the Church of God in Christ in Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction on celebrating 100 years of history! North Carolina is known for producing a strong set of congregations and ministries as well as phenomenal cadre of leaders within the Church of God in Christ. Your legacy is a testimony to the power of faith in God and a commitment to Christian service. During the first generation of the Global Pentecostalism that emerged during the 1906 Azusa Street Revivals held in Los Angeles, COGIC in North America added to this worldwide movement. It carried the “holiness message” throughout the state, witnessing to the power of the sanctification experience and the baptism of the Holy Spirit in the life of these early saints. They worked to sanctify lives, the church, and the world. This history of the Church of God in Christ in North Carolina introduces the reader to the amazing story of COGIC pioneers of the states. From the efforts of the Virginia saints during the pioneer years, collaboration has been a hallmark of COGIC in North Carolina. In this history, one encounters the congregations these saints of old “dug” out along with the institutions they built. This story opens a window into the sanctified world in which they preached, prayed, testified, witnessed, sang, and worked. From humble sanctuaries of the old, one can now worship in COGIC cathedrals dotted throughout the state today. This book also weaves together the biographies of the great leaders of the state. We learn about the COGIC women and men who have made a difference in the state during the last 100 years. Books like this one are great educational texts, teaching the current and future generations the accomplishments of people of faith, showing that with God all things are possible. Today the Church of God in Christ in North Carolina stands as a beacon of hope amidst a denomination with congregations throughout the United States and in over 100 countries around the world. Again, congratulations!

Bishop David D. Daniels III Church of God in Christ Henry Winters Luce Professor of World Christianity McCormick Theological Seminary Chicago, Illinois

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDING BISHOP

June 21, 2021 Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction Church Of God In Christ, Inc. 1609 Wendell Blvd. Wendell, NC 27591

1 Thessalonians 2-3 We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers;3 Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;

Dear Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard: To the officers, members and friends of the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction, it gives me great pleasure to join in with the many well-wishers as you celebrate your 100th Year Anniversary. May this be a time of reflection and celebration for the victories that you all have experienced in the body of Christ. Bishop Woolard, thank you for your selfless services and faithfulness toward the work of the ministry knowing surely that God is not unfaithful to forget your labor of love. Congratulations for your many accomplishments throughout your years of service. As you pursue the goals and visions that have been set before you, please know that my prayer is that God’s favor is resting on your life. May God bless you and all those under your charge whose lives you’ve touched. I am proud to celebrate with you during your 100th Anniversary that will take place the week of July 26, 2021. Always be encouraged to work for the betterment of mankind to be a haven for the lost, the despondent and those in need of the love and compassion of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Be assured that my prayers are with you and that God will keep and watch over you during this time of coming together lifting up the name of Jesus. I pray God’s blessings on you both now and forever.

In His Service,

J. Drew Sheard, Presiding Bishop & Chief Apostle Church of God in Christ, Inc. Eighth in Succession

CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST, INC. 930 Mason St. | Memphis, TN 98126 Office: 901.947.9300 | Fax: 901.947.3607 www.COGIC.org 5

M June 21, 2021

Holy Greetings Bishop LeRoy Jackson Woolard, Jurisdictional Prelate Mother Harrizene Keyes, Jurisdictional Supervisor of Women And Delegates of the Greater North Carolina Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Congratulations Bishop Woolard for your stellar and noteworthy leadership to this historic jurisdiction. Greater North Carolina has been blessed with consistently outstanding leadership from the early years; when North Carolina became a separate jurisdiction under Bishop Wyoming Wells and succeeded by Bishop L.B. Davenport. You are a stateman that have modeled the excellence of your predecessors, a man of great faith and much prayer. Remembering the Supervisors of Women, Mother Mary Frances Anderson succeeded by Mother Estella McEwen, Mother Johnnie Mae McCants and current Supervisor Mother Harrizene Keyes. Mother Keyes your outstanding leadership as Supervisor of Women and also Chair of the International Advisory Board for the women certainly distinguishes you as a woman of excellence. As you gather for this 100th Year Anniversary may it be a time of reflection and praise unto the Lord for the rich legacy of holiness and sanctification that has impacted the urban cities of North Carolina and surrounding areas. May God’s favor and wisdom continue to rest mightily upon your leadership as you direct the jurisdiction to even greater levels of advancing the Kingdom’s Agenda. It is my prayer that the celebration will exceed all expectations spiritually, numerically and financially. I am serving to bring Glory to my Father, Mother Barbara McCoo Lewis General Supervisor

June 21, 2021 100th Year Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction Anniversary Celebration When the sun’s rays hit the surface of the earth, heat rays are reflected back into space. When I retrospectively think of my childhood in the Church of God in Christ, I remember many of the older Saints; namely, Elder Bracket, Superintendent A. B. Malone, Mother Emma E. Clemmons, Mother Anderson, and of course my Pastor Bishop L. B. Davenport just to name a few. Bishop Wyoming Wells ordained me and appointed me pastor of the Church of God in Christ, in Plymouth North Carolina and also the Superintendent of the Greenville District. I had the wonderful privilege to chauffeur Bishop Wells over the State of North Carolina, to his various official duties. Those of us who are giving the responsibility to carry on the Church Mission, must be spiritual, dutiful, and thankful to God for the tremendous love for Christ and sacrificial labor of the Saints in their pioneering work in the Church of God in Christ. To God be the Glory!! Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard Jurisdictional Bishop Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction, Inc. Church of God in Christ

DEPARTMENT OF WOMEN Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction Church Of God In Christ P. O. Box 1002 Greenville, NC 27835 Email: gncwomensdepartment@gmail.com Mother Harrizene H. Keyes Jurisdictional Supervisor

Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard Jurisdictional Prelate

Greetings, What a distinct honor it is to serve in this special capacity as we celebrate and commemorate our historic 100th Anniversary of Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction Church of God In Christ. This is a time for us to remember God’s faithfulness to us, as we have evolved from 1921 to 2021. From being part of Virginia, from meager facilities, from pot-belly stoves to keep us warm, from cardboard fans to cool us off, from singing Acapella, from walking miles to church, from pounding our preachers, from fish and chicken dinner sales, it was our faith that brought us this far, leaning and depending on Him, trusting in His Holy Word, He Never Failed. Thus, our testimony, “It’s All God.” Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction has been blessed over these past 100 years to grow, develop, mature and blossom into one of the most successful Jurisdictions due to God-fearing and strong leadership at the helm. We certainly salute our current leadership, Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard for his stalwart leadership, love, and devotion to God and His people for the past 30 years. We recognize what God has done for Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction and shall continue to honor Him for our rich heritage. I appreciate Bishop Woolard for sanctioning and supporting this 100th Anniversary Celebration and this Commemorative Book and Dr. Goldie Wells along with the Publication Committee for their untiring efforts to document our history, successes, and victories. As we read this Commemorative Book, may God inspire all of us toward greater heights and deeper depths in Him. Serving for Christ,

Supervisor Harrizene Keyes Supervisor Harrizene H. Keyes Chairperson - 100th Anniversary Committee

“Never Be Afraid to Trust an Unknown Future, To A Known God.”

THE GREATER NORTH CAROLINA JURISDICTION LOGO Created by Dr. Michael Bridgers Designed by Jasmine Coward, Graphics & Web Designer

THE SEAL OF THE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST within the Greater North

Carolina Jurisdiction Logo is an outgrowth of the Presiding Bishop’s Coat of Arms which has become quite familiar to the Church. The design of the Official Seal of the Church was created in 1973 and adopted in the General Assembly in 1981 (April Session).

THE OBVIOUS GARNERED WHEAT in the center of the seal represents all of the people of the Church of God in Christ, Inc.

THE ROPE of wheat which holds the shaft together represents the Founding Father of

the Church, Bishop Charles Harrison Mason, who, at the call of the Lord, banded us together as a Brotherhood of Churches in the First Pentecostal General Assembly of the Church, in 1907.

THE DATE in the seal has a two-fold purpose; Firstly, to tell us that Bishop Mason received the baptism of the Holy Ghost in March 1907; and, Secondly, to tell us that it was because of this outpouring that Bishop Mason was compelled to call us together in November of 1907, to organize the Church of God in Christ.

THE RA A IN in the background represents the Latter Rain or the End-time Revivals which

brought the emergence of our Church along with other Pentecostal Holiness Bodies in the same era. The rain also serves as a challenge to the Church to keep Christ in the center of our worship and services, so that He may continue to use the Church of God in Christ as one of the vehicles of Pentecostal Revival before the return of the Lord. (Adapted from The Beginning, Dr. David A. Hall, Sr.)

THE DOVE represents the Holy Spirit and His influence is prevalent throughout the

Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction. The Holy Spirit is a gift bestowed upon believers for the purpose of equipping and empowering them to become a more effective witness for services in the world.

THE CROSS represents the Christian faith and is a reminder of Jesus’ death and

resurrection.

THE MAP OF NORTH CAROLINA represents the location of the Jurisdiction. THE BANNER represents the distinguishing year in which the birthing of the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction took place.

THE COGIC ACRONYM stand for The Church of God in Christ. The Church of God

in Christ is an international and multi-ethnic religious organization with a predominantly African Americans membership in the United States.

BRIEF HISTORY OF THE GREATER NORTH CAROLINA JURISDICTION

North Carolina’s first Church of God in Christ was planted at Cedar Fork in Windsor, NC, in 1907, the same year the Church of God in Christ reorganized as a Pentecostal-Holiness Church. Bishop Levi Bazemore experienced the Baptism of the Holy Ghost at a revival in Virginia led by COGIC founder, Bishop C.H. Mason. Mason had been baptized and filled with the Holy Ghost at the Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles in 1907. Afterward he preached the Holiness-Pentecostal message with demonstrations of the power of God wherever the Lord led him. After Bishop Bazemore received the Holy Ghost in Virginia, he went to visit his family in Windsor where he shared the Pentecostal message, and a new church took root. After the Windsor Church was established, Elder John D. Pemberton extended COGIC west to the southern Piedmont city of Rockingham, near the South Carolina border. Between 1907 and 1920, under the leadership of Elders A.B. Malone, S.B. Davis, and Spivey, new COGIC congregations sprang up in Tidewater Virginia and North Carolina in Edenton, Washington, and Plymouth. In these early years, before COGIC developed a system of Jurisdictional Bishops, Bishop Mason appointed State Overseers. North Carolina and Virginia were combined under the same Overseer, Overseer Samuel who served from 1915 until 1917. From 1918 until 1929, A.J. Reid served as Overseer of the two states, and from 1929 until 1940 the Overseer was R.N. Johnson. During these early years, Mother Mary Powell and Mother Emma Clemmons served as Overseers of Women. Even though the nation and the world experienced severe economic decline and political upheaval during the Great Depression and the early years of the Second World War, the Church of God in Christ continued its steady growth, expanding westward from the Piedmont to the Mountains. Between 1920 and 1930, Elder Sandy Leak began a church in Pinehurst, Elder Malone, who had founded the church in Edenton, began a new ministry in Greensboro, and Superintendent C.W. Johnson organized a congregation in Asheville. Meanwhile, the church continued to grow in the eastern region as Elder Jake Ruffin founded a church in Murfreesboro. Between 1930 and 1940, another church was added in Asheville under Elder J.C. Griffin, Elder John D. Pemberton founded a church in Hamlet, near Rockingham, Elder Raymond Brackett extended COGIC’s ministry to Fayetteville, and Elder J.H. Kessingtine founded a church in Rocky Mount.

After 1940, Bishop Mason separated Virginia and North Carolina and appointed then Elder Wyoming Wells Overseer of North Carolina. Wells was consecrated as a Bishop in 1953. Bishop Wells served as pastor for new churches he founded in the Piedmont and the eastern region and promoted growth and coordination throughout the state. Women serving as Missionaries were instrumental in establishing new congregations, working in conjunction with Elders who were appointed Pastors. Between 1940 and 1950, Missionary Pearl Howard worked with Elder J.C. Griffin who came from Asheville to lead a congregation in the Timberlake community, north of Durham. Mother Katherine Slade worked with Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard to organize a congregation in Aulander in Bertie County and Mother Hattie Parker assisted Superintendent Benjamin Parker in establishing a church in Durham. Meanwhile, at the end of the 1940’s, Elder Griffin, who began COGIC ministries in Asheville and Timberlake, also established a church in Elizabeth City, in the northeastern corner of the State near the Virginia border. The Elizabeth City church was led in the 1950’s by Bishop Herbert Purkett. In 1960, a new Jurisdiction was created in North Carolina, the Second Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction headed by Bishop W.A. Patterson, the father of former Presiding Bishop G.E. Patterson. Bishop Wells continued to head the original North Carolina Jurisdiction while serving on the 12-member General Board for the International Church of God in Christ. Bishop J.H. Sherman was the second Jurisdictional Prelate for the Second Jurisdiction. At his death, he was succeeded by the late Bishop C.E. Anderson. The current Prelate is Bishop Stenneth Powell. In 1963, a short-lived Third Jurisdiction was organized in Southwestern North Carolina under the leadership of Bishop E.J. Perkins. A more recent Third Jurisdiction is now led by Bishop Patrick L. Wooden. The new jurisdictions resulted from accelerated COGIC growth between 1960 and 1990. In 1960, Mother Mable Smith and Elder Sanford Branch organized Rescue Temple in Greensboro. In 1962 Superintendent C.D. McNeil began a new ministry in Kinston. The following year, 1963, Elder James Johnson and Mother Lillian Johnson, Elder Whitworth and Mother Hattie Elliott organized a church in Winston Salem. At the end of the decade, Superintendent C.D. McNeil founded Revival Center in Fayetteville and Brother and Sister Joseph Jones and Superintendent James H. Turner founded a church in Troy, a small town between Asheboro and Rockingham. Between 1980 and 1990, Superintendent Turner founded Upper Room COGIC in Raleigh, and new churches were founded in Pinetops, Swan Quarter, Morven, and Ellerbe. At the close of the 20 century, COGIC continued to expand with new churches in Fayetteville and elsewhere.

Greater North Carolina has been blessed with consistently outstanding leadership from the early years when North Carolina became a separate Jurisdiction under Bishop Wyoming Wells until the opening third decade of the twenty-first century. After Bishop Wells served from 1953 until his death in 1974, he was succeeded by Bishop L.B. Davenport who served from 1975 until 1991. The Supervisors of Women during Bishop Wells’ tenure were Mother Mary Frances Anderson and Mother Estella McEwen. Under Bishop Davenport, Mother McEwen, followed by Mother Johnnie Mae McCants, served as Supervisors of Women. After the death of Bishop Davenport, Bishop LeRoy Jackson Woolard was appointed Bishop of the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction. He has served in that capacity since 1991. Mother McCants served as Supervisor of Women until her death when she was succeeded by Mother Mary L. Greene. The current Supervisor for Greater North Carolina is Mother Harrizene Keyes. _________________________________________ Compiled and Written by Dr. Goldie Frinks Wells and Dr. Adrienne M. Israel

OUR FOUNDERS

THOSE WHO ESTABLISHED THE EARLY CHURCHES 14

FATHER AARON BAZEMORE

Father Aaron Bazemore live to be 111 years old. He could still read without glasses and had a sound mind. Of all the pioneers that started out with him there were none living when he died. When they were struggling with trying to get a Church for the people, Father Bazemore became extremely sick and thought he would die. He talked it over with his sister Tulie Ruffin and she told him to ask God for extended time so he could finish his work. They both prayed and again God stepped in and granted him 15 years. They marked the wall to see when the time would run out. On the exact date after 15 years, Father Bazemore got sick again and again he made his plea for more time. God answered time and time again. Finally, Father Bazemore asked God to let His Will be done. On April 10, 1992 God called him home. 15

ELDER A.B. MALONE

Elder Ananias Buck (A.B.) Malone was the first pastor of the congregation that became Wells Memorial Church of God in Christ in Greensboro. He also pastored COGIC churches in Greenville, Plymouth, and Edenton, NC. The son of native Virginia parents, he was born in Norfolk, VA, in either 1879 or 1881 and lived for a time in Petersburg, Va., before moving with his wife, Laura Malone, to North Carolina. He was an active evangelist in Eastern N.C., and he and his wife traveled extensively with their daughter, “Little Laura,” as he evangelized while leading several churches. Known as a “Read on Pastor,” Elder Malone had a systematic teaching style described in Isaiah 28:10 as, “precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line; here a little and there a little.” His messages often took several hours with Sunday service frequently lasting until 4:00 p.m. Elder Malone’s fruitful ministry ended with his home going on October 13, 1955.

ELDER J.C. GRIFFIN

In the words of Elder Griffin: May I say, I had an infinitesimal part in the work in North Carolina. Just to name a few: Overseer R.N Johnson sent me to Edenton to a little church 2 miles from town in the country where there were less than 12 members. We moved the church to town, bought property, built a church with all facilities from the ground up, paid every dollar for the building, left 84 members on the church roll, and money in the treasure. I established a church in Elizabeth City, Hereford, Woodard, Timberlake; and I purchased the first Church of God in Christ building owned by the church in western North Carolina, which is the leading church in that area today. I pastored in Rockingham, Rocky Mount, Winston Salem, Durham, Winton Salem, and other places. I served as District Superintendent, I was the one of the first district superintendents, the YPWW president, state secretary for 13 years and as the Assistant Overseer to Overseer Johnson. The church is in North Carolina came out of great suffering, afflictions, and persecutions. Some of the ministers were beaten, some were put in jail, threats and attempts were made on their lives, but God gave the victory. I walked many miles, as many as 13 one way, on Dusty and muddy roads in the heat and in the cold. Our church services were in rooms, huts, and in many buildings that were not sealed. Our pews were crates, boxes, and benches without backs. One could look up at the stars, and down at the ground. Our hearts were filled with Thanksgiving, and we praised God. Mother Lizzie Robinson and her daughter visited the churches in North Carolina in their infancy. Mother Robinson was our first General Mother. May I mention our founder of C.H. Mason, whom we first called Brother Mason, then Chief Apostle, Bishop Mason, and finally Dad. He spent much time with us in prayer in North Carolina. He was the greatest among us and servant of all. Jesus said, without me you can do nothing. He also said that HE that is from above is above all. St. John 3:31 17

BISHOP E. J. PERKIN

Elder Eligah Jerome Perkins was born and reared in Arkansas. He started his ministry in 1921 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania under the late Overseer C.C. Fredrick. Elder Perkins built a church in Union Town, Pennsylvania. He came to Asheville in 1926 at the request of his wife. Mother Perkins was visiting a friend and saw that there was a need for soul winning. He organized the Church of God in Christ in Asheville. In 1928 - 29 Elder Perkins built two churches on Morrorw Street. He was the first Superintendent of the Asheville District. He pastored in Rockingham, Greensboro and Winston, North Carolina. And New Rochelle, New York He was a great organizer and many ministers labored under his leadership. He was appointed Overseer of the State of Rhode Island by Bishop CH Mason. He also serve as the international President of the Usher Board. In 1963 he was appointed by Bishop O.T. Jones as Bishop of Southwestern North Carolina #3. The Jurisdiction was short lived. 18

ELDER HERBERT PURKETTt

Elder Herbert L Purkett, a native of Plymouth, North Carolina, was appointed as a second pastor of Bazemore Temple. He set up the officers of the church giving different members positions. On March 9, 1942, Brother Edward Speller, Charlie Bazemore, and Waverly Winborne became trustees of the church and Tulie Roseva Bazemore the church secretary. Under Elder Purkett’s leadership the church was enlarged again. The state had started upgrading the highway and all the land in the front and side of the church was taken for roadway and all of the cedar trees that gracefully lined the entire fork were removed. Elder Purkett served well, and the church continued prospering spiritually as well as financially. After number of years, he left to take charge of another church. He pastored in Bethel, Elizabeth City, Cooper Hill, and Windsor (Refreshing Center). He was a carpenter by trade and built 7 churches from the ground. He fell from the roof while building Refreshing Center in Windsor. After that accident, his health began to decline. Between the years of 1961-68 the Church of God in Christ experienced the “Dark Years”. Elder became a part of the congregations that join under the leadership of Bishop O.T. Jones, Sr., The International Church of God in Christ. He was elevated to the office of bishop. After Bishop Purkett’s demise, his sons, Taft and Cornelius Purkett and their congregations reunited with Greater North Carolina. His grandson, Elder J.C. Purkett, is the pastor of the Eastern Star COGIC, Elizabeth City, that his grandfather built. Bishop Purkett was a pillar in Greater North Carolina and his works will never be forgotten. 19

ELDER JONNIE SAWYER MOTHER MARTHA SAWYER

Elder Johnnie A. Sawyer became the second pastor of the Edenton Church of God in Christ in June 1943. He served as the Sunday School Superintendent for the East and State Treasurer. He built the fellowship hall as an addition to the church in 1955. He told his “Pastor’s Helper” (Ann Frinks, who was 13 years old) how he wanted the addition to look, and she drew the plans. A carpenter by trade, he built the Bethel church with the help of some of the brothers. One of Elder Sawyer’s favorite sermons was “Little Mary and Little Johnny” who led their family to Christ through Sunday School. He was only with the Edenton Saints on 2nd and 4th Sundays. First and 3rd Sundays he ministered at the Tyner and Winton Churches. He lived in Roper, NC and was supported in ministry by Mother Martha Sawyer. He did not drive, so, the Saints knew Brother Julius, who was his faithful driver. He remained pastor until his death on January 5, 1970. Bishop Wyoming Wells appointed Elder Lloyd Sawyer, son of the late Elder J.A. Sawyer, as the next pastor and he served for two years.

SUPERINTENDENT JAMES S. SPRUILL

Elder James S. Spruill became the pastor of the Plymouth Sanctified Church in the 50’s. He was one of God’s anointed “teaching priest.” Although the congregation was small, the church had strong prayer warriors and sound teaching. Several mighty men and women of God received their spiritual foundation there. Many changes were wrought during his tenure. The Church was relocated from Adams Street to Sixth and Madison Streets. A small kitchen facility would soon be added to the structure. He also founded a church in Williamston, NC. He served faithfully under the leadership of Bishop Wyoming Wells.

BISHOPS AND OVERSEERS OF GREATER NORTH CAROLINA JURISDICTION 1915 - 1917 OVERSEER THOMAS SAMUEL National Evangelist Thomas Samuel, a native of Tennessee, was born in 1876 to parents J. A. and Amy Samuel. He served for two years as North Carolina Overseer from 1915 until 1917 and was married to Rosa Johnson. He died in Memphis in 1934.

1918 - 1929 OVERSEER A.J. REID

1929 - 1940 OVERSEER R. N. JOHNSON, SR.

From 1929 until 1940, Elder R.N. Johnson Sr., of Richmond, VA, served as Overseer of the Churches of God in Christ in North Carolina. Born Randolph Newton Johnson in 1876 to Ben and Lizzie Reid Johnson, he was a native of Henrico County, VA, He married Martha Johnson, and after she passed away, married Nina Burton Anderson Johnson. Overseer Johnson passed away himself in 1951.

BISHOP WYOMING WELLS 1940 - 1974

Overseer Wells was the youngest overseer that Bishop Mason had ever appointed. He developed the state into a jurisdiction. He appointed superintendents to newly formed districts, and the state grew by leaps and bounds. His excellent leadership skills and charisma catapulted him to become an outstanding leader in the Church of God in Christ. In 1953, Bishop Mason consecrated him to the bishopric at Bazemore Temple in Windsor, North Carolina. He chaired the First Constitutional Committee of the Church of God in Christ in January 1968 and was elected to the first General Board in November 1968. Bishop Wells was one of the 5 original founders of the Greensboro Nation Bank, the first Black full-service bank. He served as the bank’s Chairman of the Board. 23

BISHOP LEO B. DAVENPORT 1975 - 1991

Bishop Davenport had been a loyal assistant to Bishop Wells. He became the pastor of the historic Bazemore Temple in 1953. He also pastored the church in Washington, North Carolina. At the demise of Bishop Wells, Bishop John Seth Bailey of Detroit, Michigan served as the General Board Liaison. Bishop Davenport was appointed Bishop of Greater North Carolina by the General Board in 1975. He was an excellent teacher and preacher. He was also a musician who played piano and trombone. Under his leadership, the jurisdiction built another State Headquarters Building in “Little Washington.” The church is now named Davenport Temple in his honor. 24

BISHOP LEROY JACKSON WOOLARD 1991 - PRESENT

Bishop Woolard is a great leader. Not only is he appointed, but also anointed for such a task in the times in which we are living. Bishop Woolard is a man concerned about the souls of men, women, boys, and girls. He is not a man for personal gain. This is what makes this fine man blessed by God. Under Bishop Woolard’s leadership, the COGIC Academy was founded and has graduated hundreds of students, In addition, the jurisdiction Youth Convention, Annual Jurisdictional Men’s Conference, Jurisdictional Scholarship Fund, Jurisdictional AIM Convention (Auxiliaries in Ministry) has been established and a live recording produced featuring the Greater North Carolina Mass Choir. The beautiful spacious Jurisdictional Headquarters Building was built in Wendell, North Carolina. 25

STATE MOTHERS AND SUPERVISORS OF GREATER NORTH CAROLINA 1918 - 1929 MOTHER MARY POWELL

Mother Mary Powell lived in Virginia and served as State Mother for the states of Virginia and North Carolina.

1929 - 1940 MOTHER EMMA CLEMMONS Mother Emma Clemmons served as State Mother of the states of Virginia and North Carolina.

1940 - 1974 MOTHER FRAa NCES ANDERSON

Mother Anderson worked with Overseer Wyoming Wells and organized the women of the state. She appointed missionaries to the newly organized districts and organized the auxiliaries and bands.

1975 - 1984 MOTHER ESTELLA MCEWEN Mother “Mac” introduced strict protocol for the women of Greater North Carolina. She lived in Baltimore, Maryland, but served the jurisdiction well. The women of Greater North Carolina became more active in the International Women’s Department under her leadership.

1985 - 1991 MOTHER JONNn IE MAE MCCANTS Mother McCants was the anointed leader who founded the Greater North Carolina Women’s Convention. She served on the National Advisory Committee under the leadership of Mother Mattie McGlothen and sponsored the installation of the elevator lift in the McGlothen House in Memphis, Tennessee.

1991 - 2014 SUPERVISOR MARY L. GREENE Mother Greene led the women of the jurisdiction to higher heights. She donated over $100,000.00 to the State Building Fund from the Women’s Department, initiated the Queen Coronation, and provided travel for the winner to the International Women’s Convention. She served on the Advisory Board of the International Women’s Department and led the women of the jurisdiction to win First Place in International Women’s Convention Compliments for 10 consecutive years.

2014 - PRESENT SUPERVISOR HARRIZENE KEYES Mother Keyes was appointed by Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard in 2013 and was installed officially by Mother Willie Mae Rivers in November of that year. She reorganized the Department of Women, assigning personnel and implementing strategies to promote efficiency and effectiveness among the women, as well as launching new initiatives to support the state building fund efforts. The Department of Women has received annual recognition and awards during the Women’s International Conventions. In April 2017 she was appointed to the Advisory Board for the International Women’s Convention. In 2018 she was appointed chair of the National Advisory Board. In 2019 she was appointed to serve on the McGlothen House Board of Directors, Memphis, Tennessee. She continues to serve the jurisdiction as she leads the women “Propelling Ministries”.

COGIC ACADEMY Signature Initiative of Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard

Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard embraced a vision to prepare ministers, missionaries, and workers to better serve their local churches, districts, and Jurisdiction. With his appointment as Bishop in August 1991, he was able to move this vision forward. With consideration and prayer, Bishop Woolard appointed a board of prominent educators from across the state to develop the framework for an academy. Dr. Goldie Wells served as the first Commissioner and Superintendent Clarence Freeman as the first Co-Commissioner of the thirteen (13) member board. In January 1992, the first board meeting was held and the goals, objectives, and official name “THE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST ACADEMY OF GREATER NORTH CAROLINA” was established. Dr. Wells accepted a position with the National Church in 1994 and upon her leaving, Superintendent Clarence Freeman became Commissioner of the Academy and Sister Gloria McCray was appointed Co-Commissioner. Upon the untimely demise of Superintendent Clarence Freemen in 2020, Dr. Goldie Wells assumed the role of interim Commissioner until the appointment of Dr. Brenden A. Hargett in March 2021 as Commissioner of the Academy. The Mission Valley Inn located Raleigh was the meeting place of the first Academy classes. Subsequent classes were also held in Raleigh at the Wake County Public School Staff Development Building, Shaw University, Builidng Together Ministries, Saint Augustine College, the School of the Upper Room Church of God in Christ, and presently at the Jurisdicational Headquarters of Greater North Carolina Jurisdication in Wendell, North Carolina. Since 1994, the Academy has graduated over 675 students.

To God be the Glory!

HISTORY OF THE CHURCHES IN THE GREATER NORTH CAROLINA JURISDICTION

EDENTON CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST Founded 1915

Edenton, NC

The Edenton Church of God in Christ was founded in May 1915. The first minister was Elder A.B. Malone, along with Brother Robert Holley of Norfolk, Virginia. They began preaching on the corners of Freemason and Grandville Streets. They left Edenton Church in September 1915 where Professor B.F. Holley rented the Good Samaritan Hall to the next pastor, who was Elder S.B. Davis. The Good Samaritan Hall was located on Gayle Street. Because of their beliefs and teachings, the Edenton Church was forced out of town in January 1916. Elder Davis and a few members started a church on Mexico Road, outside the city limits. Elder Davis held service in a man’s yard whose name was Mr. Robert Woodsley, who later became a member of the church. Services were held in Powell School on Mexico Road, and was soon put out of a building once again. The few believers bought a half-acre of land from Mr. Jim Bond and built a little church which was organized with five deacons: Deacon’s John Jordan, Martin Ward, Ulysses Satterfield, Frank Warren, and John Holley. The first church mother was Mother Alice Davis who served for three years. The next pastor was Elder R.N. Johnson of Richmond, Virginia. He served for two years. Mother Margaret Jackson served as Church Mother. Elder J.C. Griffin In 1921, Elder Johnnie Lawrence became pastor and served until 1932. In November 1933, Elder J.C. Griffin became the next pastor, and it was during his leadership that the church was moved back into town on February 17, 1936. They bought the property, built the church with all facilities from the ground up and paid every dollar for the building. The building was completed in 1938. When Elder Griffin moved to Baltimore, Maryland in 1942, there were 84 members on the church roll and money in the treasure.

Elder J.H. Sawyer became the next pastor in June 1943. He built the fellowship hall as an addition to the church in 1955. He remained pastor until his death January 5, 1970. Bishop Wyoming Wells appointed Elder Lloyd Sawyer, son of the late Elder J.H. Sawyer, as the next pastor and he served for two years.

“Because of the beliefs and teachings, the

Superintendent Henry G. Swain was the next pastor and remained until his death Edenton Church was forced out of town…” December 6, 1976. Bishop L.B. Davenport then appointed the current pastor Superintendent Alexander Dixon. Mother Bernice Holley served as Church Mother from 1941 until her death in 1986. She was appointed State Church Mother by Mother Estella McEwen. Mother Elmira Fleming succeeded Mother Holley. Many organizations were formed under the leadership of Pastor Dixon and a lot of renovations to the church were completed. Many leaders of the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction were members of the Edenton Church of God in Christ: District Missionary Odessa Jordan, Missionary Lois Jordan Copper, Mother Ruth Frinks and District Missionary Goldie Wells.

Mother Elmira Fleming

Elder Floyd Sawyer

Mother Bernice Holley The Late Superintendent Alexander Dixon

ST. PAUL CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST Founded 1920

Tyner, North Carolina

St. Paul Church of God in Christ is located at 144 Center Hill Church Road in Tyner, NC 27980. In 1915, a small group of men and women began worshipping in a small church founded by a Methodist named Will Twine. This small church began as “The Mission Church.” The following pastors led this church with each one contributing much wisdom towards its success and spiritual progress. Bishop Lowe from the Apostolic Church in Suffolk, Virginia brought holiness into the community. Elder Johnny Lawrence was the pastor at “The Mission” in the 1920's. The church was moved to its present location and its name changed to Center Hill Church of God in Christ. Other pastors of the church were Elder Spruill and Elder Sawyer from Roper, NC., Elder Spivey, Elder Freeman and Elder Aaron Bazemore from Windsor, NC. Superintendent Henry Swain from Windsor, NC filled in until Elder Ananias Purkett was installed as pastor. Superintendent Ananias Purkett’s family resided in Plymouth, NC. He was Superintendent of the Edenton District for many years. The name went through another name change to St. Paul Church of God in Christ. During his 25 years of administration, Superintendent Purkett began remodeling the church. He replaced a pot belly stove with two portable gas heaters, added two bathrooms in the back of the church with running water. In later years, he added a pastor’s study with a bathroom. He continued to remodel by paneling and painting the sanctuary, added new windows and doors, and two bathrooms at the front of the church. He desired for the church to one day have a cafeteria.

He was involved in a life-threatening accident and the money he received from the accident was used to build a cafeteria. Although he had someone else frame up the cafeteria, he did all the inside work himself. The Rountree and Twine families donated chairs for the cafeteria. There were many trials and tests during this time before he went home to be with the Lord. On April 1, 2005 Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard installed Elder James J. Scott, Sr., as pastor. He was the pastor of East End COGIC in Ahoskie, NC for 14 years. Due to water damage in the church, he was moved to St. Paul COGIC. During his pastorship he installed a storm door and inside door of the church. In September 2007, he went home to be with Lord. On December 18, 2007, Elder Sylvester Williams was installed as Pastor and Alice Williams as First Lady by Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard. They continue to serve to this present day. Elder Williams saw that the church needed much more work. While under his leadership there have been many improvements and accomplishments in the church. He began with new chandeliers in the sanctuary and cafeteria; he rewired the whole church, added hot water, fixed the bathrooms, purchased side by side refrigerators and installed a new storm door on the front of the church. Some of the work was done with his own money. He also remodeled the forum at the front with new carpet. Pastor Sylvester & First Lady Alice Williams

In 2020, he had a new roof put on the church and replaced all the ceiling in the cafeteria. St. Paul is truly blessed to have Elder Sylvester Williams, an extraordinary man, a distinguished minister, and leader who is concerned not only about the welfare of the church but for the souls of the people.

entecostal

emple Church of God in Christ Founded 1920

The Pentecostal Temple Church of God in Christ was originally known as the “Sanctified Church.” Much church history prior to Elder James Spruill’s tenure is based on recollections from older saints being passed from generation to generation. The “Church’s” inception began in the home of Mother Lue Downing, on Adams Street, where a few faithful prayer warriors assembled to worship and pray. In the early 1920’s, a sanctified Holy Ghost filled preacher named Elder Spivey, began to hold church meetings, along with a handful of saints. With the help and cooperation of these followers, a church building was purchased from a white congregation, located on Monroe Street, behind the old bus station. It was then moved to Madison Street – one block over. Not long after Elder Spivey’s ministry ended, Elder Jones took over as Pastor of the small flock. During this period, the church was moved to Adams Street. Washington County African American citizens eventually purchased the lot on which the church stood. It was then moved back to Washington Street. Elder Clemmons became Pastor, becoming Elder Jones’ successor for a brief period. During the “Depression Years,” around 1929, the Plymouth “Sanctified Church” was pastored by Elder J. Malone, with Brother John Allen as President of the Sunday School. Other saints and Brother Solomon Downing and Brother Leo Davenport (who eventually became Bishop), Mother Louise “Aunt Lou” Downing, who served as Church Mother, prior to Mother Rosetta Combs, who served from 1930 until 1982, Sister Mary Leary, Sister Mary Jones, Sister Riley Ann Downing, and Brother Andrew Lewis. Eventually, his travels led him back to The 1940’s brought in Elder Anderson as North Carolina, where he became Pastor Pastor of the church, with Sister Ailean of the Sanctified Church in 1966. Moore as Church Secretary. Other members of the congregation were Brother Rufus Norfleet and Sister Lucretia Norfleet. Mother Gertrude Sutton played a major role in the ministry. She would hold prayer meetings in her home for the women, leading many to Christ, and teaching them the importance of a life of prayer. In 1950, the Church was blessed with Elder James S. Spruill, who became the next Pastor. Many changes were wrought during his tenure. The Church was relocated from Adams Street to Sixth and Madison Streets. A small kitchen facility would soon be added to the structure. Mother

Rosetta Combs continued to serve as General Church Mother. Mother Gertrude Sutton was the Pastor’s Aide Leader. Sister Martha Taylor succeeded Mother Sutton in that position, and Sister Byrd L. Downing succeeded Sister Taylor. Sister Byrd Lee Downing was the daughter of Mother Gertrude Sutton. Many nights were the sweet sound of Brother Rufus Norfleet’s trombone which could be heard on the corner of Sixth and Madison Streets. The curiosity of passersby was piqued by the loud, unapologetic worship as the saints lifted up praise to Almighty God! The Sanctified Church was blessed with many other devoted members who have gone home to be with the Lord, too many to name. Elder J.S. Spruill pastored the church until his homegoing in 1967. The church experienced a great loss in the demise of this powerful leader. His successor was Elder Leroy Woolard, hailing from Washington, N.C. Elder Woolard was saved at an early age and grew under the ministry of the now Elder Leo B. Davenport. He later became affiliated with the Refreshing Spring Church of God In Christ under the leadership of Elder A.D. Headen. It was during this time that the Lord called Elder Woolard to the ministry, and there is testimony of Elder Headen of a “young, obedient, tenderhearted man of God whom the Lord anointed with many talents.” During his stay in Washington, D.C., the Lord blessed Elder Woolard with a wife, Dorothy Louise Crooks Woolard and one daughter, Saundra Louise. Eventually, his travels led him back to North Carolina, where he became Pastor of the Sanctified Church in 1966. A few years after becoming Pastor and meeting “The church experienced a great loss in the necessary requirements, Elder Woolard the demise of this powerful leader.” was granted the degree of Doctorate. During his tenure as Pastor, Mother Rosetta Combs continued to serve as Church Mother. She was a godly woman who served faithfully in this position until her homegoing on October 2, 1982. Mother Combs lived to be 100 years old. Mother Clara Small Sharpe succeeded Mother Combs in this position, serving dutifully from 1982 until her homegoing on October 3, 1990. At this time, Mother Henrietta White, daughter of Mother Rosetta Combs, was named Church Mother, and served in this position until she went home to be with the Lord in 2004. These Women of God were faithful servants of the Lord and great assets to the ministry. Missionary Inez Hedgebeth continued to serve as General Church Secretary until 1978, at which time this position was taken over by Sister Emma J. Horton. Under Pastor Woolard, the Church’s ministries broadened. The Abundant Life Outreach Ministry was born, encompassing a radio and television ministry, prison ministry, video, and audio tape ministry, and traveling evangelism. This ministry became a vehicle by which souls were saved,

bodies healed, hearts mended, spirits rejuvenated, lives transformed, and not just in the local church. There were many testimonies of miraculous healings through the television and radio ministries. The Abundant Life Ministry Choir started in 1967 with 15 members and grew to as many as 58 members at one time. It was under the direction of Dr. Woolard for 10 years. The choir was a positive force to which Elder Woolard lent his musical abilities, and the choir’s name began to spread abroad. The church auxiliaries and various departments were becoming more active and functioning. There was the Mothers’ Board, Mother Henrietta White, President; Deaconess Board, Sis. Sarah Downing, President; Sunday School Department with Elder Therogers White as Superintendent; YPWW, with Deacon Clayton Blount as President; the Missionary Circle (Senior President, Missy Ellen Robbins, Jr. President, Missy Annie Wilson; Senior Usher Board, President, Sis. Florence Hines; Youth Department, Advisor, Sister Rulie Garrett, (out of which the Dr. LeRoy Woolard Chorale Choir was born); then later, Nurses Unit, Presidents, Sis. Everlener Brooks and Missionary Mable Hedgebeth, respectively and last, but certainly not least, the Usher Board–the forerunners. Sister Lillie A. Superintendent Leroy Jackson Woolard Taylor serves as President even as of this writing, with Sister Paris S. Jacobs who certainly deserves to be commended, for serving as a faithful and devoted Assistant while Sister Taylor deals with health issues. Sister Inez Hedgebeth served as Church Secretary from 1956 to 1977, under both Elder Spruill and his successor, Elder Leroy Woolard. Elder Woolard allowed God to use him, and to direct his vision so that the church was spiritually nurtured during his 30 years of pastoring. He was inspired to permanently amend the name of the church from the Sanctified Church to Pentecostal Temple Church of God in Christ. His dream was to build an edifice to be dedicated to the God of his salvation. After much prayer, fasting, and laying before the Lord, the vision began to materialize. He encouraged a building fund project to help fund this project. The Trustee Board at this time, who stood firmly at his side during this endeavor, included Brother Leroy Purkett, Elder Therogers White, Brother Carey Brown, Missionary Ellen Robbins, Mrs. Emma J. Horton (later to become District Missionary of the Bishop L. B. Davenport District), Deacon Joe E. Garrett, Deacon Aaron Cooper, Sr., and Mother Byrd L. Downing, with Bishop Woolard as President. With a commitment to bring this vision to fruition, the building project began. Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard

Trustee Brown took on the title of Construction Superintendent and was a great asset to this venture with his expertise in this area. He also had numerous contacts and friends which saved the church a tremendous amount of money. Elder White served assistant to Trustee Brown, and spent numerous hours on site, purchasing needed supplies with his personal finances. Deacon

Aaron Cooper was always available to run errands, picking up materials for workers and checking the building site. There were others who contributed labor to this project. Brother Ernest Cox lent his expertise in concrete work, assisted by Brother Paul Basnight. Many other individuals contributed time, labor, and expertise to this construction project, without which it would not have been a successful endeavor. In 1980, a $350,000 edifice was completed at the location of 200 Rankin Lane, Plymouth, North Carolina. In three (3) years, the Sanctuary was paid for; and through this motivation, a Fellowship Hall was then added. The building fund continued to be an integral part of the church. God continued to use Dr. Woolard, and as this anointing grew, he was elevated to the position of Jurisdictional Bishop of the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction on August 23, 1991. He was, and is today, a noble man, a humble man, spirit-filled, spirit led, and most importantly, a Man of God. With the responsibilities that the position of Bishop carries of a laboring shepherd over multiple congregations, Bishop Woolard was led by God to appoint Elder Mildren L. Wilson as Acting Pastor of Pentecostal Temple on April 30, 1998. On June 9, 1999, Elder Wilson was officially named Pastor of the Congregation and Church. His loving wife, Missionary Annie L. Wilson was by his side. She was an exceptional woman of God, with an unforgettable embrace, that left you knowing that you had been hugged. Soon after his appointment as Pastor, Elder Wilson named Elder Harry L. Hedgebeth, Jr. as his Assistant Pastor. Mother Henrietta White served as General Church Mother until 2004, at which time, Missionary Rebecca Barrett was appointed to that position. Elder Wilson, also a truly anointed Man of God, took over with much enthusiasm. He too pushed for growth and further development of the existing ministries. He was a zealous and dedicated preacher of the gospel, kind but strict. His leadership made for a spirit of continued unity. His love for people was contagious and well reciprocated. He drew many young people, and their love for the Pastor and the Lord led them to get involved in many areas of the church. A newly developed drama ministry gave them (the youth) the opportunity to depict not only present life situations, but also Bible characters of old. They were also active choir members. The music ministry in the church was again revived, and the church choir, with the anointing of Mother Ida Barrett God and Direction of Elder Harry Hedgebeth, Jr., continued to minister to the saved and to the lost through songs of praise and worship.

Pastor Wilbert Jackson, Jr. First Lady Iris Jackson

On October 25, 2000, because of the continuing building fund project, a mortgage burning was held for the fellowship hall. In 2003, Elder Wilson brought before the church the idea of paving the parking lot. Sister Minnie Brooks was appointed to head this fundraising project. She sponsored numerous activities. Upon her resignation, Deacon Ruffin Gill, Jr., appointee by Elder Wilson, became the Chairperson for the parking lot paving project. In March 2008, the church was blessed to begin this project, and in the same year this project was completed.

On March 24, 2009, the church purchased a new van and shelter with no financing required. Several other renovations and improvement were made to the sanctuary with the support of the Trustee Board, which consisted of Elder Wilson, Pastor and Chairman, Mother Byrd L. Downing, District Missionary Emma J. Horton, Trustee Benjamin A. Downing, and Trustee Ruffin Gill, Jr. Pastor Wilson served faithfully for eleven (11) years. He had the natural ability to draw people, and preaching seemed as natural as breathing. He was dearly loved by the congregation, and visitors often expressed pleasure in attending services. He continued to preach even when his health began to deteriorate, and on Sunday morning, August 15, 2010, our hearts were saddened to hear of the passing of our dearly beloved Pastor. Pastor Wilson had fought the good fight of faith and had courageously finished his course in this earthly life. With the demise of Pastor Wilson, as overseer of Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction, Inc. Church of God in Christ, Bishop LeRoy Jackson Woolard immediately became Interim Pastor of Pentecostal Temple Church of God in Christ. During this time, other COGIC preachers of the gospel filled in at worship services in his absence due to his many obligations. Because Bishop Woolard is a great visionary and leader, in December 2010, he began leading the congregation in a renovation project which included the Sanctuary, the Fellowship Hall, and kitchen facilities. In September 2012, our present Pastor, Elder Wilbert Jackson, Jr. was appointed. He hailed from Refreshing Center Church of God In Christ in Windsor, N.C., by way of Wendell, North Carolina. Missionary Alice Y. Hedgebeth was appointed Church Secretary. Upon her resignation, Missionary Theresa H. Gill assumed these duties, and still serves. Sister Brandy R. Wynn was appointed Administrative Assistant.

Pastor Jackson came with a passion for serving God. Having been an usher for many years, he was dedicated to promptness and dedication to service. This led to the activation of the Armor Bearer Ministry (for both young men and young ladies.) He always stresses the importance of following protocol, to be prepared for service in the District, Jurisdiction, and National settings. He has provided training for the Trustee Board on church management and finance and conducting church business meetings. Pastor Jackson organized the Men’s Fellowship within the local church, appointing Deacon Anthony Simpson as President. The name eventually changed to Mission to Men, which is a Jurisdictional Organization with the same function. Mother Rebecca Barrett, Church Mother Elder Jackson is very community oriented. Since Pastoring in Washington County, he has joined the Ministerial Association, uniting with other Pastors to improve relations in the county between all citizens. He also serves as President of the Pastors Impacting the Community organization. Under his leadership, renovations have been made to the Fellowship Hall, and to the Pulpit area in the church. He has also been responsible for securing two (2) additional vans for the church. First Lady Iris Jackson stands along with her husband and supports him in his position as Pastor. She has organized the CWC (Christian Women Council) and the YWCC (Young Women Christian Council) within the church. She is also responsible for providing training for the youth ushers and armor bearers. She loves the Lord and striving to please Him is her reason for serving so diligently. She has a beautiful spirit and is full of compassion. The Trustee Board at the time of this writing consists of Deacon Sterling Downing, President, Minister Ruffin Gill, Sister Gloria McCray, Missionary Emma J. Horton, Deacon Dennis Wesson, and Deacon Anthony Simpson. This year, we are proudly celebrating our 100th Anniversary of Ministry and “The Confidence Continues.” Philipians 1:6. In closing, it is still the church’s sincere prayer that God Almighty remains the center of attention at Pentecostal Temple Church of God In Christ; and the ultimate goal continues to be winning the souls for His glory!

R EFRESHING W ELLS CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST

Refreshing Wells Church of God in Christ was born out of a prayer meeting in Southern Pines, NC in the home of Mother Emma Pass in 1921. The prayer group consisted of Mother Emma Pass, Mother Mary Hallman, Mother Winsie Douglas and her husband Brother Wallace Douglass. The prayer meeting grew too large for Mother Pass’s home, so they had to use other places to hold their prayer meetings and worship service. One place they used was Lawson’s Institute, which still stands today in Southern Pines.

Bishop Wyoming Wells & Mother Mary Wells The church was called the “Holiness Church” because the members were different. They testified to being saved, sanctified, baptized in the Holy Ghost, and speaking in other tongues as the spirit of God gave them utterance, shouting, dancing, and praising God and our Lord Jesus Christ! The first Pastor, Elder Leak built the first edifice with trees donated by members and friends on this same property. In 1939, Bishop Charles H. Mason (the founder of the Church of God in Christ) brought Elder Wyoming Wells to North Carolina. Elder Wells established the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction and was consecrated to Bishop at Cedar Fork (Now Bazemore Temple) in Windsor, NC by Bishop Charles H. Mason The Church was named after Bishop Wyoming Wells, “Wells Tabernacle Church of God in Christ.” The name was changed to Refreshing Wells Church of God in Christ, and the motto is: “Where the wells never run dry and every need is met!”

Pastor Von Kendrick & After the demise of Bishop Wells, there have been great men of God First Lady Tongela Ginyard pastoring at Refreshing Wells all who are deceased. They include Supertendent James Turner, Superintendent E.C. Cannon, and Superintendent Jesse Williams. Elder Von Kendrick Ginyard, an anointed man of God, a preacher and teacher of God’s Word, also a prophet and seer of God is the current pastor of Refreshing Wells. By his side working at the church in ministry is his wife Lady Dr. Tongela Ginyard, and son, Karter. Mother Berlena Standback is the President of the Mother’s Board!

Refreshing Wells Church of God in Christ is still on the move for God, witnessing and praying for souls to come into the Kingdom of God even in this pandemic!

Southern Pines, NC

Founded 1921 45

aints

elight Church of God In Christ

Saints Delight Church of God in Christ was formerly known as the Sanctified Church in Parmele NC. It was founded in 1924. The founders of the church were Deacon Dock Knight and Mother Rodie Knight, the parents of the late John Ashley Knight. Later, the church was incorporated into the body of the Church of God in Christ. In the early 1930’s, the late Elder Sawyer of Roper, NC, assisted by Elder Wiggins, was the pastor and the State Sunday School President. During this time, Elder R.N. Johnson, Overseer of Richmond, VA, and Elder A.B. Malone of Emporia, VA would come Deacon Dock Knight with others and conduct revivals. As the congregation grew under the leadership of Elder Herbert Purkett, of Elizabeth City, NC, he saw the need to expand and move to Bethel, NC. Members of the church purchased land in Bethel on Crawford Street to erect the new edifice. The new church was built by Elder Sawyer and some of the members. After the transition of Elder Herbert Purkett, Elder Vernon Armstrong of Portsmouth, Mother Rodie Knight VA was appointed pastor and served for eighteen years before his health began to decline. After his transition, Elder Mayo Little was appointed Pastor. After the death of Elder Mayo Little, Elder Theroger White was appointed Pastor by Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard in September 1993. God made a way for the church to purchase a parcel of land on US Hwy 64. Through much prayer, sacrifice and hard work, the builders began to build the Lord’s house.

Pastor Theroger & First Lady Evelyn White

On April 4, 2002, the Saints were ready to enter the house of God now known as The New Saints Delight Church of God in Christ. In 2013, the church was paid in full.

Approximately 22 years ago New Saints Delight started a Community Outreach which included a Food Bank, which has been in operation since its conception. On January 19, 2021, Elder White was elevated to Superintendent of The Greater Windsor District. He serves the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction in various capacities.

Mother Hattie M. Dixon

Mother Essie Dee Little

SUPERINTENDENT DR. HERMAN G. PLATTt , PASTOR Wells Temple Church of God in Christ was organized in 1927 with a prayer meeting by Elder Parks and his wife. Later that year, Overseer R. N. Johnson sent Elder A. B. Malone to pastor the small fellowship. There were other ministers who pastored before Bishop Wyoming Wells, namely Elders Brown and Wiley. On July 23, 1941, Bishop Wyoming Wells took charge of the church, located in a three-room house on the corner of Gibson and McCulloch Streets in Greensboro. The congregation was less than a dozen members with a treasury of eighty-seven cents. A tent campaign service was held in the 1500 block of Ash Street. At the close of this tent meeting, Bishop Wells and his congregation purchased the 1308 Small Street property and converted it into their church edifice. Wells Temple made history during the summer of 1946 when Mother Mary Wells and Bishop L.C. Page started the first Black Greensboro congregation radio church ministry. Every Sunday evening at six o’clock, the Wells Temple Choir could be heard soulfully singing “JUST JESUS” on WGBG-AM Radio. Many native Greensboro residents reminisce about the strong, God-filled voice of Bishop Wells who led hundreds to Christ via this Sunday night radio broadcast. January 15, 1959, Bishop Wells, and his congregation closed the deal for the structure at 409 Asheboro Street (now Martin Luther King Drive) at the cost $45,000.00. On February 1, 1959, the Grand Opening and Dedication of Wells Temple Church of God in Christ was held. The church grew and became an integral part of the Greensboro community. After the demise of Bishop Wells in 1974, the church’s name was changed to Wells Memorial Church of God in Christ. In 1975, Bishop Ithiel Clemmons became the pastor of Wells Memorial. Under his leadership, the church grew in membership, paid off the mortgage on Asheboro Street, and purchased a lot on the corner of Bennett and Washington Streets. In January of 1983, the church added to its staff a Pastor’s Helper, Evangelist Oletha Townsend, who worked to further promotethe pastor’s program. Bishop Ithiel Clemmons and his wife, Clara Clemmons, worked creatively to enlarge the “Vision of the Saints”. He humbly, but steadfastly declined to follow the beaten paths and chose, instead to create new Models of Ministry to meet the growing needs of the poor in a shifting society. To meet the needs of people in the eighties and nineties, he lifted a steeple diagonally across from the steeple of Pfeiffer Chapel at Bennett College and across the way from North Carolina A&T State University to dramatize the fact that if a “mind is a terrible thing to waste,” what about “a life?” The edifice was built between 1983 and 1985 and dedicated on Saturday, June 8, 1985. In 1986, Bishop Clemmons founded the Prayer and Life Clinic, which provides a time of “coming away” to be renewed by the Holy Spirit for Christians from all over the country. The Annual Prayer and Life Clinic continues in September of each year to offer opportunity to spend time in prayer, worship, reflection, and studying the Scriptures. 48

There are three significant people that were instrumental in the continual progress and spiritual growth of the ministry at Wells Memorial, Evangelist Oletha Townsend (1983-1986), Elder Tommy Legrand (1986-1988), and Elder George East (1988 to 2000). The Lord led Elder George East, who was Bishop’s son in the ministry, to come to Greensboro, September 15, 1988 to assist Bishop Clemmons at Wells Memorial. Elder East, a dynamic teacher and preacher, was appointed Assistant Pastor of Wells Memorial in 1990, and his wife, Mrs. Darlene East, faithfully served the church and congregation in this capacity until he went home to be with the Lord on January 27, 2000. He always had a kind and encouraging word and a wfriendly smile. Bishop Clemons served this congregation for 23 years. At his death, January 1999, Bishop LeRoy Jackson Woolard, Jurisdictional Prelate of Greater North Carolina, became interim pastor. Bishop Woolard is a man sent by God who led Wells prayerfully onward. On April 6, 2000, Bishop Woolard appointed Elder Herman George Platt, a dynamic and energetic man sent by God, to be pastor of Wells Memorial. With compassion and the penchant for people, he led the congregation to a new vision to add a $3.1 million dollar addition to the building. In this time of diligence, this leader emphasizes the importance of a spirit-filled life and often exclaims the biblical truth, “You are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus”. In 2010, Elder Platt was elevated to Superintendent of the Winston-Salem District. Under his leadership, the church has expanded its ministries to include a feeding ministry, outreach ministry, and prison ministry. Our church will continue to earnestly seek to do the will of the Lord as we, thrive, grow, expand, and develop in the body of Christ. We are thankful to the Lord for our successful past, rich blessings in the present, and we are fully persuaded that what He has promised for the future, He will also perform!

“WE don’t talk prayer, we DO prayer and God answers” Evangelist Oletha Townsend

Elder Tommy Legrand

Elder George East

SPRUILL TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST

Founded 1921 Taylortown, NC

Superintendent John E. Spruill

In 1921, our church was built under the great leadership of Elder Sandy D. Leak. His name was always held in high esteem by the saints for he left a lasting inspiration on many during this time. Today if you talk to one of the surviving pioneers, his name is still held in high esteem. Among some of the members at that time were: Dec. Luther Barrett, Dec. Ebb LeGrand, Dec. Ed Williams, Dec. Joe John McIver, Bro Iron Morrison, Dec. Will Harrington, Dec. Roy Jackson and Rev. McLaughlin. Also included were church Mothers Annie Williams, Betty Alford, Iola Thompson, Etta McIntosh, Lizzie Palmer, Rondel Jones, Florence Jackson, Mary McIver, Ada Dunlap and Mother Julia Harrington, just to name a few; all of whom have gone to be with the Lord. However, we thank God for them blazing the trail, and for that reason we have some of their offsprings who are following in the same path. After the passing of Elder Leak, Elder Ewing pastored here for a while. After he resigned, Elder Franklin pastored here for about a year. In January 1940, Bishop Mason sent a young man by the name of Elder Wyoming Wells to pastor the church. Elder Wells was a dynamic preacher and his wife, Mother Mary Wells was a great songster and choir director. After a few years, Elder Wells was appointed overseer of N.C. and in 1953 he was ordained Bishop of NC. His church mothers were Mother Lucy Williams, Mother Julia Harrington, Mother Flora Jones, and Mother Ester Mooney along with Deacon Isaac William, Evangelist Eugene William, Evangelist Elvie McNeil and Missionary Lugenia Dunlap. Bishop Wells was a wonderful leader who successfully led this church until 1955. After being moved up to the office of General Board Member of the Church of God in Christ, pastoring 4 larger churches became an overload for him, so he gave up the Pinehurst Church. He sent us Elder Oliver to be our pastor. Elder Oliver stayed for a year. In 1956, Bishop Wells sent Elder John E. Spruill Sr. of Greensboro, NC along with his wife, Mother Ernestyne Spruill, and family to pastor our church. This was Elder Spruill’s first church and he pastored for 55 years. Under the great leadership of Elder Spruill many accomplishments were made, such as: building a church kitchen, fellowship hall, adding the restrooms, carpet, pews, an altar, choir loft, stained glass windows, the vestibule, ladies and men’s rooms with lounges, installed, central heating and air conditioning and chandeliers. Under his leadership the church purchased w land that adjoined the church’s property which enabled us to have adequate parking and a little house that afforded the Pastor and First Lady a place to take a little rest in between service, if they so desired.

Upon Elder Spruill’s arrival, there were no other ministers, but thank God under his ministry there are those who have been inspired to preach and teach the gospel. Because we loved our Pastor and saw that he loved us and was doing a wonderful work for the Lord, we asked Bishop Wells if we could name the church Spruill Temple. He readily granted our request. Before that our church was called the Holiness Church or the Sanctified Church. After his declining health, Elder Spruill went on to be with the Lord on Nov. 23, 2010. On Dec 17, 2010, Bishop Leroy J. Woolard officially appointed Elder Jerry Chesney, who served as Assistant Pastor for many years under Elder Spruill as our new Pastor. Elder Chesney is a mighty man of God and a great prayer warrior who has made many improvements to our church in the short time he has been pastor. Under his leadership we have added a metal roof and a covering over the church porch. Elder Chesney also lead the way for the church to have donated 1.64 acres of land surrounding the church. In June 2013, the church suffered from a big oak tree falling, which caused the church to close down for 5 months. But praise be to God in December of the same year, our church was re-opened. What appeared to be a misfortune, God turned it around to be a blessing, as it allowed us to remodel our church. God has allowed us to purchase a new keyboard, and we’ve placed a new church sign out front, added ceiling fans in the offices, installed internet service and created a church website and we’ve also added a new heating unit and praise God, we’ve completed phrase 1 of our paving project which paved one side of our drive way. Just before the pandemic began, we completed the renovation of the pastor’s office. The Lord truly has been blessing us in so many ways and we are looking for greater things to happen in the future. Many souls have been saved and added to the church. Some are gone to be with the Lord. Some have gone other places and others are still here praising God. We at Spruill Temple thank Missionary Julia Ray for researching the church history and for her dedication to our church. She went on to be with the Lord in May 2009. We thank God that 2021 marks 100 years for Spruill Temple Church of God in Christ.

Mother Ida Barrett

ELDER JERRY CHESNEY, PASTOR EVANGELIST STELLA CHESNEY, FIRST LADY 54

Mother Rosa Mills

Smith Temple

Founded 1929

Church of God in Christ

The year is 1929 in the month of April. Something remarkable is about to happen. Something that will change the course and destiny of many people. Elder William M. Smith and his wife, Mother Marie Smith, left Richmond, Virginia and came to Fayetteville, North Carolina to run a revival at Saint Paul Baptist Church. In two weeks, 125 souls were saved, and many were filled with the Holy Ghost. God spoke to Elder Smith and told him to build a church. Elder Smith, along with the members of the church, began to build Bush Harbor Tabernacle on East Bend Road, Fayetteville, North Carolina. After the church was built and organized, Elder Smith renamed the church, Smith Temple Church of God in Christ. Smith Temple was the FIRST Holiness church in Fayetteville of the Churches of God in Christ, Inc. Fast forward if you will… the year is now 1969. Something extraordinary is about to manifest at 514 Davie Street, Fayetteville North Carolina! Elder Smith and his wife have laid down their baton and entered eternal rest. The Gospel Baton has been picked up by a WONDERFUL, POWERFUL, ANOINTED, FAITHFUL, DEDICATED, GOD FEARING visionary from Rockingham North Carolina, Dr. Thomas Cleveland Leak. Dr. Leak took the helm as Pastor of Smith Temple, September 1969. Elder Leak’s wife, Mother Pecolia Leak, and children joined him in October 1969. Their 57 years of marriage have produced 8 children, 18 grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. Obviously, Dr. Leak and Mother Leak embraced Genesis 1:22, where it is written: “And God blessed them saying, Be fruitful and multiply.” What a time we had in that “lil” church on Davie Street. There was preaching, and praying, singing, and shouting, everybody happy, nobody doubting. We were then, and still are now, blessed and highly favored of the Lord. We witnessed many miracles such as the lame walking in on crutches and walking out on legs that were straight and strong. Many came in with testimonies of how they needed surgery in order to live, But God, allowed Pastor Leak and the members to pray the prayer of faith and those testimonies of dismay and despair turned into praises of victory and testimonies of healing!!!

Yes, we were the lil’ church with the big heart and God favored us with growth. Thus, God impressed upon Pastor Leak’s heart to build a bigger church wherein we could praise and worship God. In 1994, under the leadership of Dr. Leak, we rode in a cavalcade from 514 Davie Street (the lil’ church with a big heart) to 2296 Slater Avenue, where we are today (the big church with the bigger heart). Although the location has changed, our love for God and our desire to serve Him by serving others remains steadfast!!! We have been in our current church approximately 27 years! Ain’t God Good!!! We have stood on the prayers of many pioneers of the faith who were members of Smith Temple from the very beginning. They were members of Smith Temple when Pastor Leak and family first arrived. They have transitioned from this life to their eternal reward. We must recognize them because they played a major role in building the first Smith Temple under the tutelage of Elder Smith and they continued to serve under their new pastor, Dr. Leak. Pioneers such as Mother Leola Carver, Mother Rena Davis, Sister Ella Carver, Missionary Katie Rhone, District Missionary Janie Allen, Mother Hosey Avery, Mother Mary Roberts, Mother Bethea, Sister Mamie McMillan, Brother Eugene Carver and Pastor Grace Hinton. Then, there are other deceased members who were not pioneers, yet they loved their Pastor and served Smith Temple: Sister Marie Rhone, Mother Georgia James, Brother Timothy Leak, Mother Effie and Brother Maxwell Arthur, Sister Iula Brown, Brother Malcolm Harley, Sister Janie McLaurin, Mother Marie Boone, Deacon Odell Bowden, Sister Glenda McLaughlin, Sister Josephine Hobbs, Brother Odell Davis, Missionary Kathleen and Deacon Lee Harrington, Missionary Priscilla Eans, Brother Jimmy Hinton, Sister Ruby Evans and Brother John Bethea. Perhaps the list goes on, unbeknown and inadvertently, there may be deceased member’s whose names should be included. Albeit extremely important to say, many beloved members have transitioned on and we are so grateful for their contributions of time, talent, and resources. Dr. Thomas C. Leak has been our Pastor for 51 years! We thank God for our Pastor and his family! Under his keen supervision, Smith Temple Church of God in Christ has evolved into a multi-faceted church. Our church’s outreach programs include witnessing, a clothes closet, food pantry, counseling, indeed the list goes on. Our Goal is to win Souls. And we proudly stand with our Pastor, as he resonates our motto: I BELIEVE GOD!!!!!

SUPERINTENDENT, DR. THOMAS CLEVELEND LEAK ELECT LADY PECOLIA LEAK

Founded 1930

Hamlet, NC

Through the leading of the Holy Spirit, Elder John David Pemberton came to North Yard in Hamlet, North Carolina in March 1930. Upon meeting Brother Whitfield Leak and wife, the Lord brought their minds together as three in one Superintendent E.C. & to organize a Church of God in Christ. Mother Cannon Elder Pemberton was elected pastor Mother with two members. Their first place of worship was a room secured from Mr. Johnson. As the Lord lead and desiring another place to worship, Mr. O. L. Jackson let them use a hall. The Spirit of the Lord came in that place and made a call and led many people out from various “There were many services, and the building churches, sanctified, and baptized them with the Holy Ghost and fire. was not big enough to hold everyone…” The church began to grow and prosper daily and on November 20, 1930, the present-day structure was built. The church was constituted on November 19, 1930, with the following members Vernon and Crowder, Belton Ross, Dock Mallory, Emma Pemberton, Eva Young, Elizabeth Cole, Lizzie Sanders, Eliza Malloy, Millie Young, Rose Crowder, Minnie Haywood, Birtha Monroe, Mary Jefferson, Carry Wertz, Daisy Hillian, and Mary Bowden. Officers were Elder John D. Pemberton, Pastor and Mary Duncan, Scribe. When the Lord saw fit to take Elder Pemberton in 1948, Elder E.C. Cannon was appointed pastor in 1949. Under the leadership of Elder E.C. Cannon, Pemberton Temple grew very rapidly and

became a prominent church in Richmond County. The services would be packed out on Tuesday nights, Friday nights, and on Sunday mornings and Sunday nights. There were many services, and the building was not big enough to hold everyone, so they would let up the window so that people on the outside could hear the message better. Pastor Cannon started the EC Cannon Evangelistic Crusade, where he served as both the founder and president. Senny M. Nicholson was the regional president and Thomasina Edwards was the regional field worker. During this time Elder Cannon preached Pastor Charles & out of three other churches, Pentecostal Mission in First Lady Denise Quick and Family Laurinburg, North Carolina, Cannon’s Temple in Maxton, North Carolina, and Cannon’s Temple Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. In the mid-80s, Elder Cannon was working on growing the other churches God had blessed him with and desiring to make his own jurisdiction, he was not present at Pemberton Temple very much anymore. In 1986, Elder Cannon sent Elder Dock Kelly to preach in his stead. The members of the church did not want Elder Kelly as their pastor, so they wrote Bishop Davenport in 1987, to ask him to send Elder John Spruill to be their pastor. In April 1988, Elder John Spruill became the new pastor of Pemberton Temple Church. Elder Spruill was a meek and humble man of God and served the church and the community very well for 19 years. Elder Spruill not only believed in preaching the gospel but lived the Bible in the beauty of holiness and sanctification. As Superintendent Spruill‘s health began to fail, Bishop LeRoy Jackson Woolard saw it necessary to place Elder Charles Quick as Assistant Pastor to assist with the pastoral duties at Pemberton Temple. During this season Elder Quick remained humble to leadership and encouraged the congregation to stick together during this period. Upon the demise of Superintendent John Spruill, Bishop Woolard appointed Elder Charles Quick as Pastor Designee for Pendleton Temple Church of God in Christ and on December 17, 2010, Elder Charles L Quick was installed as the Pastor of Pendleton Temple Church of God in Christ. He serves faithfully in the Laurinburg District Church of God in Christ under the District Superintendent Tommy R. Legrand and District Missionary Frances T. Banks. Through his leadership abilities the church has increased in many areas and he has a vision for Pendleton Temple to see souls saved and added to the church. First Lady Denise Quick is a co-laborer with him in ministry.

TEMPLE

CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST The Temple Church Of God In Christ (COGIC) Rockingham, NC is one of the early works, of the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction. It has a long and rich history here in Richmond County and the surrounding areas. One of those rich highlights is a visit from The Founder of the Church Of God In Christ, Bishop Charles Harrison Mason. The Church Of God In Christ in Rockingham, NC was originally founded by Deacon and Mother Robinson in the approximate year of 1800. Temple COGIC started off in the Downtown vicinity in a building on Green Street formerly known as the “Candy Kitchen.” Some of the noted Pastors were Elder John D. Pemberton, Elder St. Samuel, Elder A. B. Malone, Elder E. J. Perkins, Elder Boone, Elder Brackett, Elder J. R. Anderson, Elder J. Howard Sherman, Sr. and Elder Curtis Cole. The First Pastor was Elder John D. Pemberton. After many years of Service there on Green Street and staying in Rockingham, NC, under this great Leader, the Members and friends marched from the Downtown Mission to a new location for the Church, on Church Street. They worshipped at this location, for over fifty years. During this span, many great leaders and workers came and went, served and died. Out of this Church came, Bishops, Superintendents, a State Supervisor, District Missionaries, Deacons, Church Mothers, and Missionaries, and Apostles. Some of our outstanding and faithful workers were State Supervisor Mrs. J. R. Anderson and Church Mothers Mrs. Dell Robinson and Mrs. Ada Steele. At some point, the record shows that Pastor Pemberton left Temple COGIC and started Pemberton Temple COGIC in the neighboring Town of Hamlet, NC. It was Elder Saint Samuel who became the next Pastor. After Pastor Samuel’s service at Temple COGIC, Pastor J. R. Anderson was appointed Pastor. He served until he was moved to Fayetteville, NC where he Pastored Anderson Temple (Now Williams Memorial). His wife Mother Anderson was elevated to State Supervisor. The Pastor that followed Pastor Anderson was, Pastor Jennings of Kansas. Pastor Jennings served until he was moved to another location. His wife, Mother Jennings received a high elevation in the Grand Old Church Of God In Christ. The records show that Bishop J. Howard Sherman, Sr. was the next Pastor. During the leadership of Bishop Sherman, Sr. the Church was named Joseph Temple COGIC. He moved on to Wadesboro, NC, where he became Jurisdictional Bishop of North Carolina Second. With Bishop Sherman, Sr. moving to Wadesboro, NC, Elder Curtis Cole from Detroit, Michigan was Installed the next Pastor who served until 1967. Upon his installment, there was another name change made. Joseph was removed and the name became Temple Church Of God In Christ. That is its name until this day. During his time as Pastor, Temple COGIC grew, and was strong in bringing in members as the Word of God was preached. In 1967 Pastor Cole relocated to Winston Salem, North Carolina where he Pastored Faith Temple, now named, Greater Faith Deliverance Center COGIC under the leadership of Bishop Dr. John C. McClurkin, Sr.

With the sudden departure of Pastor Cole, Bishop Wyoming Wells Appointed Deacon Marvin Cameron to a Position of Leadership until a new Pastor could be Installed. Deacon Cameron has for years been known as, the Senior Deacon of Temple Church Of God In Christ Rockingham, NC. This is an honor which he still carry today. It was in 1967 when Temple burst on the scene, once again, with the Appointment of Elder James Henry Turner as Pastor. Elder Turner was appointed by Bishop Wyoming Wells. Pastor Turner’s Preaching and Teaching cause many to come to Christ. Temple COGIC quickly became known simply as, “The Holy Church.” The Church was old and falling down with outside toilets, potbelly stove to heat the Church, no fans, benches would fall like a domino effect, and the basement would flood on rainy days. Pastor Turner would preach, and people would listen because the windows were raised up, back in those days. On Sunday nights, the sanctuary would overflow with people from all denominations. As the Church grew, a new edifice was erected in 1970. The building of the edifice was helped greatly by the skills of Senior Deacon Marvin Cameron, his Son, Deacon Frank Cameron and Trustee Linwood Baldwin. Many hands, but these were some of the ones with great skills, that help bring down the cost of building. Elder Turner led the march of the Congregation from Church Street to S. Stewart Street for the dedication service. Under Elder Turner’s leadership, the Church was involved in outreach ministry of which included street services, tent revivals, and the Power for Every Hour radio ministry. He pioneered Missions and established Churches. Temple COGIC was part of the Laurinburg District under the leadership of Superintendent E. C. Cannon. When Elder Turner was Appointed Superintendent over the Asheboro District, Temple COGIC as well as Wells Tabernacle COGIC moved with him. He was the Pastor of Wells Tabernacle COGIC. Temple and Wells Tabernacle were his Base Churches, however, he established and Pastored seven other ministries in NC and SC (Lighthouse COGIC Candor, NC ***(Superintendent Turner Pastored this work when it was a Mission, before Bishop Wooden, Sr. was Appointed Pastor. It was Bishop Wooden, Sr. who named it Lighthouse COGIC)*** – Revival Temple COGIC Troy, NC – Upper Room COGIC Raleigh, NC – Full Gospel COGIC Hoffman, NC – Missions in Asheboro and Benson, NC as well as a Mission in Cheraw, SC). Also, under Elder Turner’s leadership, Temple COGIC purchased a house, a two-story building and a two unit building which still stands today. Along with his wife, Mother Willa Turner, they serve until his passing in 1987. Those 20 years of service produced some of the great Men and Women of God in Greater North Carolina and beyond, to date. Leaders such as, Bishop Patrick L. Wooden, Sr. Prelate of NC 3rd, First Administrative Assistant, Superintendent Thomas C. Leak, District Missionary Cynthia B. Little and Apostle Tommy Quick, just to name a few. Our very own Jurisdictional Prayer Leader Superintendent Tommy Legrand also served at Temple COGIC. Another great Leader that came out of Temple COGIC was the Late Superintendent Garcia Morman. Elder Michael Morman, Superintendent Morman’s Son, has followed him into Pastoral Ministry. Pastor Michael Morman is another product of Temple COGIC. First Lady’s Pamela Wooden, Pecolia Leak, Debbie Morman, and April Morman (GrandDaughter of our current Church Mother Margie Thompson.) are all products of Temple COGIC as well.

There were a couple of Elders who served as Pastor between 1987 and 1991, they were Elder William and Mother Laura Cromer (1987-1989) and, Elder Curtis Morman (1989-1991). Elder Curtis and Mother Rosa Morman were products of Elder Turner’s ministry and Members of Temple COGIC. During this time period, Temple COGIC went through a difficult transition due to the death and passing of Superintendent Turner. Many families moved on to other ministries. Many new Ministries were birth in the process. These Works are, Bethel COGIC Ellerbe, NC, COGIC Outreach Rockingham, NC and Voice of Evangelism COGIC Morven, NC, all products of Temple COGIC. In that year, of 1991, Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard Appointed Superintendent Thomas C. Leak Pastor of Temple COGIC. Along with his Wife, First Lady Mother Pecolia Leak, they served for over 20 Years. During Pastor Leak’s tour of service, major additions were added to the Church, and “We must Be now, what major growth was experienced once again. Under his leadership, the edifice we will Be in the future” was enlarged, outreach ministry came back once again. Temple was involved in Feast and Fun Day (Feeding the Community.), an all-denomination’s CityRomans 4:17 Wide Crusades, participation in Martin Luther King, Jr. Day March and evening celebrations, the Christmas parades, broadcasted on two radio stations, Senior Citizens breakfasts and Lovon Everette Scholarship Fund. Temple COGIC became a beacon once again in the community. After Superintendent Leak’s time at Temple COGIC, Elder Kenneth L. T. Broomer was appointed Pastor. In 2016 with Pastor Broomer returning to his home state of Delaware, Superintendent Leak returned as Interim Pastor until Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard Appointed Elder Jimmy H. Bention, Sr. Pastor on June 14, 2017. Pastor Bention, Sr. serves as Bishop Woolard’s, Executive Director of the Greater North Carolina Mission To Men Department. Executive Director Bention, Sr. quickly rallied the Church with the Motto of, “We must Be now, what we will Be in the future,” Romans 4:17! Along with his Wife, First Lady Glendora and their Daughters Latoya and Kathryn, they have reinvigorated the saints, by declaring that this Church stands on the shoulders of those who have come before him. Using the past, to help bring about a brighter future. One of the great things Executive Director Bention, Sr. has done was to start the Superintendent James Henry Turner Memorial Revival every January. This event has given Temple COGIC a taste of what was, with the works of what is.

Church Mother Margie Thompson

CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST Founded 1930

High Point, North Carolina

FAITH TEMPLE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST was founded in 1930 by Elder J. W. Lawrence. It started when his wife, Mother Isoleen Lawrence came to High Point to visit her uncle and started a noon day prayer meeting where souls began to surrender to the Lord. Later her husband, Elder J. W. Lawrence came on the scene and organized a church and opened a mission on Hoover St. They later moved to Evans St. known as the “Green House” where revival broke out and many souls came to Christ. The church suffered many things including “The Depression” that separated the people leaving them to have worship service from house to house. After the church was established and flourishing, Bishop Wyoming Wells saw the labor of love for God from a young Minister Ernest McCants, he ordained him as Elder McCants and appointed him as Pastor of Faith Temple Church of God in Christ in 1942. Elder McCants was a builder and saw the need to build God a better house. Pastor McCants and the people erected a block church on Beamon St. in Hight Point, North Carolina. The edifice was erected Pastor Ernest McCants with multiple bathrooms, offices, and a complete dining room in the basement. Faith Temple Church of God in Christ remained on Beamon Street until the congregation moved into a new edifice on Franklin Ave. Among the men and women who supported Pastor McCants was Deacon Luicoe and Mother Clarice S. Wilson, and Church Mother Pecolia Quick. There were several men and women who served under the leadership of Pastor McCants. They included Supervisor Mother Johnnie Mae McCants, serving untiring and was committed to the work of the Lord Supervisor & First Lady at the local assembly, the District, the Jurisdiction, and the National Johnnie Mae McCants Church. Mother Johnnie Mae McCants founded and organized the State Women’s Convention of Greater North Carolina. Her leadership ability was recognized by Mother Mattie McGlothen, International Supervisor of the Women’s Department of the Church of God in Christ, her peers, and other Jurisdictional

Supervisors. Mother McCants was appointed to the National Advisory Board and National Executive Board of the Women’s Department. Pastor and Mother McCants continued to serve on Beamon Street for 30 years. Pastor McCants moved Faith Temple Church of God in Christ from Beamon Street to its Mother Pecolia Quick new edifice and current location at 1230 Franklin Avenue, High Point North Carolina in 1974. Pastor McCants and Mother McCants remained there with the people assigned to their care until the Lord called her home in 1991 and called him home in 1993. Deacon Luicoe &

After the homegoing of Pastor McCants, Mother Clarice Wilson Superintendent Donnie Jones, Elder Session, Superintendent John McClurkin, Superintendent Tommy Legrand, Elder Enock Williams, Elder Mooring, and Elder Dennis Williams, Sr. all served Faith Temple Church of God in Christ as Pastors. In March 2007, Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard deemed it necessary to change the name of the church from Faith Temple Church of God in Christ to River of Life Church of God in Christ. It was at that time Bishop Elder Joseph & Lady Lauren Bass appointed Elder Joseph Bass as Pastor of River of Life Church of God in Christ. Pastor Joseph Bass served the church as Pastor for over twelve years until he relocated to his hometown to care for his aging father. Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard made a call for an ordained Elder to come forth to serve the men and women of God in need of a pastor at River of Life Church of God in Christ. Elder Perry Hill came forth to answer the call from the Bishop. Elder Perry Hill and Evangelist Angelene Hill are currently serving as Pastor and First Lady of River of Life. Elder Hill pastored Holy Ground Temple Church of God in Christ in Germany for 15 years. He was Superintendent for 6 years in the Germany Jurisdiction under the Leadership of the late Bishop Carlis L. Moody Sr. River of Life Church of God in Christ is in the Sanford District under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Charles Wesley McMurry and District Missionary Sabrina W. Rogers. Faith Temple faced many challenges during the tenure of Pastor Ernest and First Lady Johnnie Mae McCants and after the passing of Pastor McCants. However, it is with praise and glory Pastor Perry & to God the people of God rallied together to keep their hard work First Lady Angelene Hill and love for the ministry moving forward. There have been several challenges for the church after Pastor McCants transition to be with the Lord; it appeared the church would not make it. But with God on our side and Pastors after God’s heart, River of Life Church of God in Christ is STILL STANDING and stronger than ever.

Founded 1932

Rocky Mount, NC

CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST

The St. Paul Church of God in Christ was established in 1932 with Elder J.H. Kissitine as the Pastor. He served until failing health caused him to retire. He was succeeded by Elder R.N. Johnson who served for two years. Elder James Billingsly was his successor. Elder J.C. Griffin became the pastor and served for approximately 1 year. Elder Billingsly returned and served as pastor for a short time. Mother Clements from Washington, NC was the State Supervisor. After her death, Mother Mary Francis Anderson, wife of Elder J. R. Anderson, became the State Supervisor. Bishop Mason had appointed Elder J.R. Anderson (First Lady Mary Francis Anderson) who had been the Overseer for Long Island, New York as pastor. When his health prevented him from going into the church many times, he would have service in his home. The congregation was not excessively big then. St. Paul used to be referred to as the “Big Church.” In 1954, Hurricane Hazel came through Rocky Mount and took with her the top of the church building. With a broken building but not a broken spirit, the church continued to serve the Lord. As a result of this, the church became displaced several times moving from one location to another. God put a dream in the heart of the pastor to build a building. A church was built at 411 Middle Street which is one of the locations the church had already been at one time. Under Elder Anderson, there were many young Ministers and Missionaries birthed from his ministry.

After the passing of Elder Anderson, a young Elder by the name of William M. Washington (First Lady Ethel R. Washington) became the pastor. The church grew by leaps and bounds during this time. There were 3 choirs, many auxiliaries were formed, students from Wesleyan College started worshipping at the church and became watch members. Elder Washington was appointed as Superintendent of the Rocky Mount District. There was great fellowship amongst the body of Christ. At that time, the church was in a dead-end street. The Lord had given Elder Washington a vision to move from the back street to the front street. The land had been purchased but Elder Washington was called Superintendent Donnie Jones home before anything else was done. The mantel was then passed on to Elder Mack Deans (First Lady Bessie Deans) as pastor. The church continued to thrive. Elder Washington’s dream was kept alive, and the church building was moved from Middle Street to Raleigh St. As the church building was being hauled down the street the Saints were following along. Some were walking, some were on the church bus, what an exciting time. The first church bus was purchased under Elder Deans. Elder Deans became ill and could no longer serve as pastor. Elder Donnie Jones Jr. (First Lady Dorothy Jones) was appointed as the new pastor. Pastor Donnie Jones became Superintendent of the Rocky Mount Wilson District. The next project for the body was to build a new edifice. Elder Jones was a contractor, and he did a lot of the work himself. A beautiful church was built due to the vision God had put in his heart. Elder Quick came and spoke for the dedication Pastor Jerry & service. In 1999, Hurricane Floyd came through and caused extensive damage in Rocky Mount and surrounding areas. The First Lady Sharon Evans Lord laid upon the heart of then Presiding Bishop G.E. Patterson to come and share the love with the people of this area. He did not tarry long but just knowing that he was in this area and was thinking about the people in Rocky Mount was a blessing. As time went on, God sent Elder Jerry Evans and his family to come and fellowship with St. Paul. He said God had given him the assignment to come to Rocky Mount and to be of assistance to Pastor Donnie Jones. He was not in the best of health during this time, and he needed someone. This young preacher Elder Jerry Evans (First Lady Sharon Evans) became our new pastor in June of 2015, after the passing of Elder Donnie Jones. Even before he became the pastor, he was concerned about the spiritual and well-being of the people and the church. He encourages the church to continue to seek the will of the Father for our lives. He is a leader that is committed to his calling and his flock. During this year of being shut out of the church because of the pandemic, Elder Evans has made it his goal to continue to bring the Word every week. Behind every great man of God, there is a great woman. We thank God for our First Lady Sharon Evans who stands beside her husband in leading this great church. First Lady Evans works wholeheartedly beside her husband with a humble spirit, as did each one of the previous Pastor’s wives.

There is much to be admired as we walk down the hallways of time. The journey of how we became Williams Memorial Church of God in Christ, was led by Elder William Smith, as a mission on East Russell Street in Fayetteville, North Carolina. In 1932, Elder Raymond Brackett, his family, and some mission members established “The Church of God in Christ No. 1”, located on Scarborough Street. In 1935, the church burned to the ground, another building off “B” Street served as the sanctuary. In 1938, Elder Brackett and a few members were able to rebuild the church at 702 Teachers Drive Fayetteville, North Carolina. In 1948, Elder Joseph Anderson became the Pastor. During his tenure, the membership grew tremendously. Sunday School, Bible study, and YPWW were all encouraged and flourished. Pastor Anderson became ill in 1962. The church was without an active pastor for a year and a half. Pastor Joseph Anderson departed this life in 1963, and the church was renamed “Anderson Temple” (formerly Church of God in Christ No.1) in his honor. Elder James H. Turner, Sr., Elder Leo Davenport, Elder John Reed, and Elder Preston Ross were interim pastors until Elder Leroy Jackson Woolard was appointed pastor in 1964. In 1967, Bishop Wyoming Wells appointed Elder Leroy Jackson Woolard to the Plymouth Church of God in Christ in Plymouth, North Carolina, and appointed Elder Jesse J. Williams of Washington, North Carolina as pastor of Anderson Temple. Pastor Williams and the congregation began building a new edifice in 1985; they moved into the new two-story edifice in 1986. Pastor Williams started a radio broadcast (WFAI), which could be heard as far as Fort Bragg. Many souls were won for Christ. The Voice of Redemption radio broadcast aired on WIDU Radio. The Christian Crusaders Witnessing Team and The Arm of Evangelism Crusade Ministry were established. Both outreach ministries impacted the community of Fayetteville as the Word of God was spread from city to city. The youth ministry, Hand Praise Team made history when they ministered at the National Convocation in 2001. Pastor Williams was appointed District Superintendent of the Wilson District and his wife Missionary Naomi Williams was appointed District Missionary. Superintendent Williams was called home to be with the Lord in 2007 (District Missionary Williams was called home in 2006).

Upon the homegoing of Superintendent Jesse Williams, Greater North Carolina Prelate Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard oversaw the wellbeing of the church. Bishop Woolard assigned the local elders of the church Elder Wilbert Jackson; Elder Donald Finney; and Elder Charles Robinson to assist in the stabilization of the church. He also sent other elders in to minister to the people of God until he would hear from the Lord before appointing a pastor to Anderson Temple. Bishop Woolard sought to commemorate the man of God by compelling the people to rename the church in honor of Superintendent Jesse Williams. The decision was unanimous to rename the church. Bishop Woolard appointed Elder Joe E. Garrett, Jr., Pastor of Williams Memorial Church of God in Christ (formerly Anderson Temple) in February 2011, to carry on the vision that was started so many years ago. Bishop Woolard installed Pastor Garrett as the District Superintendent in 2015. The Soul Winning Ministry, nursing home ministry, prison ministry, feeding the homeless, establishing a food pantry, reviving the youth department, instituting a leadership program, and renovating the church, are just some of the accomplishments that of Pastor Garrett. Lives continue to be transformed under the leadership of Superintendent Garrett. As you can see Williams Memorial has some rich history in the city of Fayetteville, North Carolina.

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Superintendent Joe E. Garrett, Pastor Ruthena Garrett, First Lady Founded 1932 Fayetteville, NC 67

Superintendent Samuel L. Payne, Jr. Lady Janice Marie Payne

Sycamore Temple was the church organized under the Church of God in Christ in Western North Carolina in the mid-1930s. The church begins in the living room of Mother Selema H. Cannon. At that time, the churches did not have names: rather, the churches were numbered, and Sycamore Temple was “Church Number 3”. In 1937, Elder J.C. Griffin, along with approximately 30 members, were blessed to purchase an edifice for worship. By the Grace of God, they were blessed and able to buy a site on Sycamore Hill, later known as Beaumont Street”. Because of the redevelopment in the Market/Eagle Street area, this street no longer exists. During the depression, the cost of the church was $10,000 with a down payment of $100 and a monthly payment of $10 per month. The initial fundraiser was a revival and by God’s Grace $50 was raised for the down payment and the remaining down payment was paid within 30 days. Their dreams became reality, as their prayers were answered. “Number # 3” was the first sanctuary to be incorporated under the Church of God in Christ in Western North Carolina. The incorporation was later dropped, and our church was renamed Sycamore Temple Church of God in Christ. It was also known as “The Little Church under the Hill”. Elder Griffin remained pastor until 1939. Elder Boone succeeded him and remained pastor until 1944. In 1944, Bishop Wyoming Wells appointed Elder Samuel L. Payne, Sr. as pastor. At that the time the church had 50 members. With sacrifices, prayer, and God’s blessings, the church’s mortgage was paid off in its entirety on June 2, 1954.The membership continued to grow and in 1970, Elder Samuel Payne, Sr. became interested in purchasing another place for worship. Mother Margaret Payne, his wife, learned from an advertisement that the Nazarene Church in Downtown Asheville was for sale. However, the new location for the Nazarene Church had not been built and would take two years to complete. This was a blessing, because it gave Sycamore Temple’s congregation the opportunity to raise monies necessary to purchase the church at a cost of $55,000. During those times, that seemed to be an astronomical sum, but Elder Samuel Payne, Sr. always reminded the members that “Our Father is Rich, and He will supply our every need”. They worked, prayed, and kept the faith. In April 1972, the congregation marched into their new church home at 11 North Ann Street. The church was given 25 years to pay the balance of the mortgage. By the dedicated work of the saints and the Grace of God, the mortgage was paid in full within eight years. 68

In July of 1985, Bishop L.B. Davenport appointed Elder Samuel L. Payne, Jr. as the pastor of Sycamore Temple to succeed his late father, Superintendent Samuel L. Payne, Sr. Under the leadership of Superintendent Samuel L. Payne, Jr. the membership has increased more than four-folds. The church was reincorporated in 2002. We are in a building fund project and look forward to renovating and expanding our place of worship. Many other blessings have been bestowed upon the leaders of this church. In March 1987, Missionary Barbara G. Payne was appointed District Missionary of the Asheville District, and in 1992, she was appointed the Assistant to the Jurisdictional Supervisor and worked faithfully until her death. In August 1995, Elder Payne was selected Administrative Assistant to the Bishop LeRoy Woolard in the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction. On July 22, 2014, Elder Payne was appointed Superintendent of the Asheville District, and renamed the district Land of the Sky Asheville District. One year later, on July 22, 2015, God sent him a lovely and gifted helpmate; Janice Marie Payne. Today there are still descendants (children) of the original members actively working and supporting the ministry at the present-day Sycamore Temple. GOD HAS BLESSED MANY FAMILIES IN HIS SERVICE WHO CAME FROM “UNDER THE HILL” TO “OVER THE HILL”.

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GREATER HARVEST

FELLOWSHIP

“For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all The St. John Church of God in Christ was founded things is God.” Hebrew 3:4 in 1940, in the home of Mother Katherine Slade This scripture definitively relates to the rich history of Greater Harvest Fellowship Church of God in Christ. The history of our church illustrates how men were inspired by God to start, restore, and build a church to further edify the Kingdom of God.

in St. John (Aulander), North Carolina. This was an exciting time for many Christians in the surrounding areas of Hertford and Northampton counties as they could hardly wait to attend weekly services! Although this was Mother Slade’s private residence, the people of God did not hesitate to give Him praise as the power of the Holy Ghost fell upon them in a mighty way! The word about the services was spread abroad vastly, which lured more people in to see what the movement was all about. In the year of 1945, it moved from the home to a small storefront called McCoy Everett’s Place. There, the late Mother Slade established what was then called the Woodland Church of God in Christ. Later, as the church needed a leader, Elder Obadiah Thompson came to assist and eventually became the pastor of the church. During this time, souls were saved and more excited saints joined the fellowship. In the midst of the church’s “growth spurt”, a distraction arose; the owners of the storefront desired to re-occupy the building. Therefore, the saints had to seek another location to have their worship services. The church had grown to 15 members that believed profoundly in the power of prayer. They were able to move to a new location where God performed miracles and showed his people many wonderful exploits. In the year of 1965, the Lord gave the leader of the church a vision to build a house for his glory. The church building was erected section by section as the Lord blessed them financially.

the church’s name was changed to St. John Tabernacle Church of God in Christ. Elder Thompson remained pastor until his removal in 1969. That year, Missionary Emma Ruffin contacted the Late Bishop Wyoming Wells, who was then the state bishop of Carolina, to send them an anointed pastor. Bishop Wells sent Dr. IN 1966 North LeRoy Woolard (now Bishop Woolard) to pastor the flock in St. John, North

Carolina. Dr. Woolard came with a vision and a zeal for God’s people. He began to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ in such a captivating way that many of them had never experienced before. The alarm was soon sounded in the community about this man of God and even more souls were saved and won to the Kingdom of God. As time progressed, the church building was in need of repairs, and God inspired Dr. Woolard to start a building fund project. As a result of the project, the saints were able to make repairs and do some minor remodeling to the edifice. During this time, Dr. Woolard kept preaching and proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ. In 1982, Dr. Woolard recognized that the membership had outgrown the small building. Thus, he again worked humbly and steadfastly with the saints on a fundraiser that helped them to erect a $600,000 building that is second to none in St. John, North Carolina. Dr. Woolard expressed a genuine concern for the well-being of the church and lost souls. God truly blessed St. John Church of God in Christ, and because of the vision of a great leader like Dr. LeRoy Woolard, and his awareness of the “harvest of souls”, the St. John Church of God in Christ became Greater Harvest Fellowship Church of God in Christ. The current members of Greater Harvest Fellowship Church of God in Christ are blessed and thankful to God for His marvelous works and are now under the leadership of Pastor Kenneth Jefferson.

Pastor Kenneth Jefferson First Lady Kym Jefferson FOUNDED 1940 St. John, NC

Seventy-one years ago, the hand of God providentially guided a small band of saints who were marginalized by society to start having prayer meetings in their home. These obedient servants, who were led by the spirit of God, started planting and sowing spiritual seeds with a handful of dedicated believers. Among the spiritual architects, who were instrumental in laying the foundation, were Missionary Emily Bridgers, Deacon William & Missionary Ella Mae Little, Mother Clavon Cotton, the Manning family, and others. They would fast all day long and, in the evenings, they would have prayer meetings at different homes. As the number of participants increased, the congregants began looking for a larger place to accommodate the people who joined them. They would “tarry” during these meetings and converts were filled with the Holy Ghost. The saints later moved to a small storefront in Oak City, North Carolina. In the summer of 1950, a spirited young man name Superintendent Clarence Dunlap was asked to come down from Richmond, Virginia to oversee these meetings and he eventually agreed to pastor the young flock. The saints later moved to a church building on Salisbury Street in Hamilton, and they chose to name the new church: “Holy Temple Church of God in Christ.” Superintendent Clarence Dunlap

During the Sunday’s services, people would come and stand by the church windows to hear what was going on inside the building. Elder Dunlap would often bring visitors, evangelists and musicians from Richmond, VA to help grow the ministry. Superintendent Dunlap was an anointed man of God and a great leader. He O n e o f h i s f a m o u s q u o t e s taught the unadulterated word of God with much was, “It’s Holiness or Hell.” emphasis on being Holy. He wanted God’s people to know that Holiness was a lifestyle which demanded that believers live up to God’s expectations. One of his famous quotes was, “It’s Holiness or Hell.” In the summer of 1968, the church building was destroyed in a fire. God gave Superintendent Dunlap a vision to rebuild the building with the addition of a fellowship hall and two offices. New pews and musical instruments were purchased and most of all, Holy Temple became a saving station for those in need of the Lord. In 1995, Superintendent Dunlap approved the erecting of a new church. The members came together and worked out a plan for a new Holy Temple. The church had grown immensely since that great gathering in 1950. In May 1995, the saints assembled to celebrate the dedication of the “New Holy Temple Church of God in Christ.”

This was the day in which the vision of Superintendent Clarence Dunlap became a reality and the members saw the fulfillment of his famous quote: “Little people doing great things.” After the demise of Elder Clarence Dunlap in December 1998, Elder Michael Bridgers was appointed by the Jurisdictional Prelate, Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard, as the new pastor of Holy Temple. Under Pastor Bridgers, the church agreed to change its name from “Holy Temple” to “Grace Fellowship Church.” Grace Fellowship Church (GFC) has continued to grow and expand its presence in the Mother Emily L. Bridgers community. Church volunteers help with the distribution of food at the local food bank and members serviced on various committees in the town of Hamilton. Instead of twenty years, the church was paid for in ten years, launched a scholarship program to assist members in college, refurbished its mechanical equipment, upgraded its sound system, purchased, and paid for a 26-passenger bus, and is the home of the daily radio broadcast: “By the Grace of God.” Pastor Bridgers is an “anointed” man of God and he works closely with one of his spiritual sons, Elder Gerald Evans, who is now the pastor of St. Paul Church of God in Christ, Rocky Mount, North Carolina. Pastor Bridgers loves the people of God, teaches sound doctrine; and his mission is to teach God’s people to not only talk about the blessings of God, but to help them learn how to receive, grasp, and lay hold of what God has in store for them. Throughout the years, Pastor Bridgers has continued to preach and teach the “uncompromising word of God.” The foundation of prayer still stands today as the church moves forward in the vision that God has set before Grace Fellowship! Despite daily challenges, the members believe the “God of the Bible” will enable them to be successful. As believers, they know that they have the “Victory Assured” through Christ Jesus. Therefore, as they await the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, they stand firmly with their leader believing in his motto: “God will give you what you need, to go through what you have to go through, to get what He has in store for you.” II Corinthians 2:9

Pa st or Mi ch a el & First L ad y Wen d y B r i dg ers

Founded 1950 Hamilton, NC 76

E S C U E

E M P L E

CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST

With a profound calling upon Ornell and Mabel Smith in 1959, while residing in Buffalo, New York, they relocated home to Greensboro, North Carolina. The Smith’s worshipped with Bishop Wyoming Wells and the congregation at Wells Memorial Church of God in Christ on Asheboro Street (now Martin Luther King Boulevard). God would not allow Ornell and Mabel Smith to become content with the place Superintendent Ornell Smith of worship because He had a purpose for their journey southward. This mission was to continue the declaration of His Word being preached-"Holiness or Hell" by Evangelist Mabel Smith. Mother Mabel Smith

Thus, Rescue Temple #1 C.O.G.I.C., Inc. was birthed from a revival in a tent in Goshen, a small suburban community in South Greensboro in 1959 conducted by Evangelist Mabel Smith. Souls were delivered, healed, and saved from sin. Some received the baptism of the Holy Ghost and were truly set free! Although the official church charter was presented in 1960, the birth of the church bore labor pains as souls were added from the various locations during its early existence-from a house (Lee Street) to a warehouse (Martin Street), from a store-front (East Market Street) to a tent service (Winston Street), and from a warehouse (McConnell Road) to church dwellings (Warren Street, Winston Street, Dunbar Street, East Florida Street, Tuscaloosa Street, English Street, Pear Street, Bessemer Avenue, Franklin Boulevard). The numerous locations allowed God's plan to evolve. Do not allow the moves to speak derogatorily of the great ministry of Rescue Temple#1 Church of God in Christ. You were Saved! Many ministries were appointed to serve in a temporary capacity until appointment of a permanent pastor to lead the Saints to a higher level of edification, understanding, and spiritual awareness. Such great leaders that were a part of the history of the church were the late Elder Sanford Branch, the late Elder Broadnax, the late Elder Washington, the late Elder Curtis Cole, and the late Elder James Turner. Rescue

Temple #1 C.O.G.I.C., Inc. was under the leadership of the late Superintendent Ernest McCants and the late Mother Johnnie Mae McCants of the High Point District. The late Bishop Joseph Howard Sherman (who served as Chairman of the Board of Bishops for the International Churches of God in Christ) was pastor for a period. Under his leadership, Superintendent Ornell Smith was called into the ministry. The newly founded mission was officially chartered under the late Bishop J. Howard Sherman who ordained Elder Ornell Smith as pastor in 1966. Members were added to the church continuously. A structure was built at 2525 Pear Street in 1968 with funds provided primarily by Elder Ornell Smith and his wife, Evangelist Mabel Smith. The membership continued to grow from a handful members to over 50 members during that time. With a membership of more than 130 members, the purchase of a historical church located at 3008 East Bessemer Avenue commenced in 1974. The mortgage for that edifice was burned on February 15, 1982. Superintendent Ornell and Evangelist Mabel Smith believed in starting churches. Every time Mother Catherine Surgeon, they saw an empty building, they would say, "That is a great place for Church Mother a church." Under this ministry, 10 churches were established to later be united into one-the Sanford District of the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction. The late Bishop Leo B. Davenport granted the charter for the Sanford District. Before the demise of Superintendent Ornell Smith on October 8, 1987, he stipulated in writing the appointment of the next person in leadership of the church in the event Evangelist Mabel Smith chose not to pastor. Elder Charles W. McMurry was named to pastor the flock at Rescue Temple #1 Church of God in Christ, Inc. and to become Superintendent of the Sanford District. Under the leadership of Superintendent Charles W. McMurry, the church moved to 601 Franklin Boulevard in October 1994. There are many wonderful works being done by the membership under his leadership. Superintendent McMurry established a Boy's Club, instituted the Outreach Ministry, re-established the work of the Women's Department under the presidency of First Lady Evelyn McMurry to organize and grow to leaps and bounds. He teaches the unadulterated Word of God and allows the Word to find you where you are. If Pastor Charles & you are willing to change your life, you can do so after First Lady Evelyn McMurry receiving the Word of God. He often says that he is giving a "sandwich" but you reply back with, "What would we do with an entire meal!" He really is a mighty man of God. Superintendent McMurry has supported the many churches that were birthed under the auspices of Rescue Temple #1 C.O.G.I.C. and remains close to the leaderships of those churches today. Dr. Charles McMurry loves to allow the young people to reach their magnitude by allowing them to partner with other church leaders and learn to perform with excellence through youth leadership roles. Thank God that this church has the type of leadership demanded in the Word of God. Rescue Temple #1 is truly blessed with a leader who is personification of Jesus Christ and the quintessence example of love.

May God continue to bless this church and the leader-Superintendent Dr. Charles W. McMurry, as the church move into the next decade.

CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST The history and foundation of New Horizon Church of God in Christ originated from the Ministry and legacy of the late Supt. E. C. Cannon. In November of 1955, the Lord spoke to Pastor Cannon to go to Maxton, NC to start a ministry. Maxton was then known as a “ghost town,” due to the lack of economic growth and development. For about forty years, Pastor Cannon prayed and preached the true Gospel. The late Dr. Rosa Galbreath served faithfully as Pastor Cannon’s Assistant Pastor for many years and was very instrumental in the success of the ministry. Because of their praying, fasting, and concern for the people, many were blessed spiritually, financially, and physically. On December 21, 1994, Supt. Cannon slipped away peacefully to be with the Lord. Shortly thereafter the Late Bishop C. E. Anderson was appointed Interim Pastor, along with Supt. William Perry. They both encouraged the church family to work together as the church begins the healing process after the demise of our great leader.

Dr Rufus Graham

The late Dr. Rufus Graham was appointed Pastor in July 1995. He was a tremendous help to the ministry and began the work toward the building of the sanctuary soon after his appointment. As a formal town official, Dr. Graham was able to complete a lot of the legalities necessary to begin the building process. He helped to develop the blueprints, initiated the groundbreaking ceremony, and later was responsible for the completion and footing of the current sanctuary.

It was during the appointment of the late Dr. Rufus Graham that the present leader, Elder John I. Brown, Jr., was elevated in the ministry and later appointed as Pastor. Shortly after Dr. Graham’s appointment, God revealed to him the vision for Elder Brown’s ministry and immediately Dr. Graham began to teach, discipline, and instruct Elder Brown for leadership. Elder Brown was known for his musical skills and his love of music; but Dr. Graham would often tell the church “Elder Brown was in training for more responsibility and a greater job!” Under the direction of the Holy Spirit and leadership of Dr. Graham, Elder Brown preached his initial sermon on the second Sunday in October 1995. Unexpectedly on December 10, 1996 God called Dr. Rufus Graham from labor to reward. On January 4, 1997, just as the late Dr. Rufus Graham prophesied Elder John I. Brown, Jr., was appointed as interim pastor of New Horizon Church of God in Christ by Jurisdictional Prelate, Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard. Elder Brown immediately began to pray and seek God for direction for His people and the church. He and the Pastor John Brown, Jr. & members continued to work on the development of the First Lady Deborah Brown building process; with the support of the church family, extended family members, friends, and loved ones the first service was held in this sanctuary on February 1, 1998 (the First Sunday in February). Under the leadership of Elder Brown, within one year and one month the first phrase of the building process was completed. To God Be the Glory!! In April 1998, Elder Brown was officially installed as Pastor of New Horizon Church of God in Christ and the edifice was dedicated by Jurisdictional Prelate, Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard; Asheboro District Supt., the late Elder Garcia L. Morman, Sr., and all the Officials of Greater NC Church of God in Christ. To assist the youth and the saints with transportation to the various services and church functions; the first church van, 1998 Dodge Van was purchased in 1999. On July 6, 1999, the contract for the second phrase was signed by the original trustee board; consisting of: Pastor John I. Brown, Jr., Pastor Jimmie L. Cox, Sr., Missionary Cynthia Lester, the late Elder Lynwood Gilchrist and the late Deacon Leo Williams.

The contractors completed the foundation, plumbing and framed the building. The brethren of the church, family members, friends and volunteers from the surrounding churches and community mostly donated their labor and skills to assist with the completion of the final product, as we paid for the material as we went. Just as the Lord had promised that He would be with us, in the year 2000; the second phase of the building project, which included the fellowship hall with a kitchen, dining area, three classrooms, a conference room, and a Pastor Office with a bathroom was completed. During the year of 2002, God allowed the New Horizon Church Choir to complete its first live recording; featuring original songs written by the late Mother Daisy Blue Hines, and other leaders such as Sis. Cynthia Lester, Sis. Rebecca Staton and Sis. Helen Lester. June 2003, the church van was paid in full. During Pastor Brown’s tenure, the administrative staff was being develop and appointed; such as the appointment of Pastor Brown’s first Church Mother, the Late Mo Daisy Blue Hines, then Mo. Linda Carpenter, and later Mo. Marilyn Cannon and recently Mo. Katie Baldwin who joined Mother Julia Galbreath (the oldest living member) and Mo. Marie Campbell. The first Deacons appointed were Bro. Donald McBryde, Bro. Frank Lester and Bro. Greg Barnes; the board now also consist of Dea. John Mckoy, Dea. Rashid Hendricks, Dea. James Brown and Dea. Jonathan Robinson. On October 20, 2008, New Horizon Church of God in Christ was incorporated in the State of North Carolina as a Nonprofit Corporation by the Department of the Secretary of State, becoming New Horizon Church of God in Christ, Inc. with Elder Brown as the Registering Agent. In December 2008, the church was able to accomplish another milestone with the paving of the church parking lot. With the sacrifices of the church family, friends and loved ones the project Mother Marie Campbell, was paid in full upon completion. Church Mother In 2009, The Transitioning Lives Outreach Ministry was established by Elder Brown, this ministry completed outreach effort to the surrounding counties of Robeson, Scotland & Cumberland County and is associated with the WEWO Broadcast Radio, Fayetteville, NC where Elder Brown serves as a member of the Pastors’ Coalition.

To further accommodate the church family, an additional air condition unit was purchased and installed in May 2011. As the Lord continued to bless in December 2012, padded choir chairs were purchased and donated to the church. April 2012, glass framed exterior doors with panic bars were installed and on August 21, 2012 a new metal roof and rain gutters was installed; balance paid in full! As the Lord continued to bless, many souls have been saved, backsliders rededicated their lives as others were spiritually developed and advanced into the kingdom of God. Over the years, the ministry has completed many projects, served the community through various outreach efforts and events. Most importantly, from this ministry pastors, prophets, ministers, and missionaries have been birthed, to God be ALL the Glory!! New Horizon Church of God in Christ continues to faithfully serve in the Greater NC Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ with our Jurisdictional Prelate, the Honorable Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard, and in the Asheboro District under the leadership of Superintendent Paul E. Whitley, Sr. where Pastor Brown currently serves as the First Administrative Assistant.

efreshing

enter Church of God in Christ

Founded 1960

Windsor, North Carolina

Refreshing Center is one of the historical churches in the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction which was established and built by the late great Elder Herbert L. Purkett. In the early 60’s, the church was first named the Cooper Hill Church of God in Christ, Pastor Kenny & First Lady Gwendolyn Campbell which was in Cooper Hill, North Carolina. The church was relocated later to Windsor, NC on 404 Taft St. The church building was constructed, and the name was changed from Cooper Hill Church of God in Christ to Refreshing Center Church of God in Christ. While working the church construction, Elder Herbert L. Purkett fell off the roof and broke most of his bones. The Lord restored him, and he was able to finish the work on the building and move in the early sixties. Our first church mother was Mother Cartie Swain. The first revival was conducted by Elder Alexandra Dixon and 13 souls came to Christ. A large part of those persons are still in the church today. Later Elder Wilbert L Purkett was consecrated to the office of Bishop. Some years later Deacon George C. Davis and Mother Isabella Davis became members. Mother Isabella Davis was appointed to the position of Supervisor by Bishop Herbert L. Purkett.

Senior Deacon

Elder Taft Purkett became the pastor of Refreshing Center Church of God in Christ after the death of his father Bishop Wilbert L. Purkett in 1975. In 1985, the church was remodeled. They did their first and second Cornerstone Service in 1993 and a Mortgage burning around the same time. Since then, the church has had several pastors, Bishops Leroy Jackson Woolard, Elder Larry Cherry Mother Marjorie Outlaw, The late Deacon Church Mother and Elder Wilbert Jackson. The present pastor is George Davis Elder Kenny Campbell, along with First Lady Gwendolyn L. Campbell. First Lady Gwendolyn Campbell was appointed to the position of District Missionary in the Greater Windsor District. The church mother is Mother Marjorie Outlaw.

oore M emorial M

Church of God in Christ

Founded 1960 Ricky L. Mosley, Pastor Moore Memorial, COGIC began on South Side Ave. in Asheville, NC. The church moved from South Side Ave. to 29 Mardell Circle. A letter penned by the church secretary, Sister Betty Graham stated the church operated under two names Perkins Memorial and Macedonia, COGIC. Bishop Perkins had a vision for the church. He purchased land at 54 Adams St. and began working towards his vision for a new church building. It remained in its infantile stage of development for many years. According to the Buncombe, NC Register of Deeds the building was erected in 1960. The name of the church was registered in Buncombe County on September 25, 1961 as Macedonia, COGIC at 54 Adams St. In 1985, Dr. Arthur Wilson was appointed pastor of Macedonia, COGIC. Elder Wilson was asked by Missionary Louise W. Moore who was a trustee of the church to complete the unfinished edifice that was started by Bishop Perkins. Pastor Wilson, a skilled brick mason consented and took the lead on completing the work on 54 Adams St. According to the 1989-1990 annual church report the building needed electrical, plumbing, sewage, and additional interior work.

In December 1990, the new name change Moore Memorial, COGIC was decided during a church meeting at 7:50 p.m. On January 14, 1991, the name of the church was legally changed to Moore Memorial, Church of God in Christ under the pastoral leadership of Elder Arthur Wilson. The name change was in honor of the late Missionary Louise W. Moore. After completing the necessary interior work, the church dedication was officiated by Elder Maurice Davenport, the son of the late Bishop Davenport. Due to Pastor Wilson’s declining health and the need to address the continuation of the church ministry, the church was inactive for a couple of years. On March 10, 2019, at 5:00 p.m. at Moore Memorial, COGIC, 54 Adams St., Asheville, NC, the Land of the Sky District under the leadership of Superintendent Samuel L. Payne, Jr. re-opened the church doors and the new leadership for the church was introduced to the district. On Wednesday evening, March 20, 2019 at Sycamore Temple, COGIC, 11 N. Ann St., Asheville, NC the installation and rededication ceremony took place. The Jurisdictional Prelate of the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction, Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard installed the newly appointed pastor Elder Ricky Lamont Mosley. Pastor Mosley and his wife Evangelist Missionary Keenan Jackson Mosley, LCMHC serve faithfully together as a team at Moore Memorial Memorial COGIC. Together they have 3 children Zion, Eden and Israel.

Asheville, NC 88

Church of God in Christ Cannon Cathedral Founded 1962

The church began in November 1962; God sent a dynamic deliverance ministry to the Charlotte Metropolitan area. The vessel that God chose for this vineyard was Earl C. Cannon. Pastor Cannon was dedicated to the call and purpose of spreading the gospel. He was the president and founder of E.C. Cannon Crusades that planted well over 17 churches in the Carolinas and abroad. Through divine inspiration and guidance, Pastor Cannon began a revival in Charlotte where many souls were saved, delivered and set free. A mission evolved from that series of services in the little chapel on Summit Avenue. The chapel belonged to the Home Benevolent Club of which Mother (Mrs. Jessie Mae Mc Clurkin and her parents, the late Reverend and Mrs. Giles Walls, were members). The church later moved to a building owned by Dr. J.W. Teamer. As the congregation began to grow the Cannon’s Temple Church of God in Christ family moved into a small building on Cemetery Avenue owned by the Gethsemane AME Zion Church. As Pastor Cannon preached, church growth continued and in 1976, the church secured the old Garr Memorial Church at 200 Tuckaseegee Road. In 1989, Hurricane Hugo caused extensive damage to the 200 Tuckaseegee property. The ministry acquired the old theater on Freedom Drive, which was renovated and dedicated to the Lord’s work. This temporary stop was a stepping stone to 5110 Tuckaseegee Road and was renamed New Bethel Church of God in Christ. As the church continued to seek a more permanent home it sojourned to the Comfort Inn for a short period of time and the Lord opened the door to Tuckaseegee Elementary School. In December 1994, the Lord saw fit to call His servant Pastor E.C Cannon from his earthly home to heavenly rest.

The congregation consoled each other and stood united asking the Lord to lead our Jurisdictional Bishop to appoint a dynamic young man that had labored as co-pastor and served faithfully under Pastor Cannon’s leadership. In March 1995, Tommie A. Murphy was appointed pastor of the New Bethel Church of God in Christ, with the support of his beautiful family (Lady Doris, Nicole and Erika).

“Catch the Vision”

Just one year later, we moved into a church building at 412 S. Hoskins Road. The Lord continued to bless our ministry adding new souls for the labor. Pastor Murphy continued to cast the vision as God was leading him, which birthed the phrase “catch the vision”. Pastor Murphy and church officials began looking for property with the hope of bringing the vision that the Lord had provided to fruition. It was during that search that 1520 Little Rock Rd. was purchased. The vision of a permanent place of worship was realized in January 1999. Under the leadership of Bishop Murphy the church has thrived, expanding in souls and ministry opportunities that serve our community. Bishop Murphy has built a team of leaders at New Bethel Church that lead over 20 different ministry opportunities to serve the community and its members, expanding beyond the doors of the church into local schools and housing developments through: the Performing Arts Summer Camp, the Manna Feeding Program, many community events and our regularly scheduled services (6 times per week) . Under Bishop Murphy’s leadership, 5 families have relocated to lead/establish other ministries. We are heard on WPZS, 100.9 every Sunday morning from 6:30 a.m. – 7:00 a.m. The goal of the ministry is to proselytize our community and to empower the people of God for effective ministry. The mission is to equip and empower for effective ministry.

Bishop Tommie A. Murphy, Pastor Doris Murphy, First Lady

EW L IFE

D ELIVERANCE C ENTER C HURCH OF G OD I N C HRIST

Founded 1962

Greenville, NC

Pastor James Horton Jr. accepted Christ in his life in 1982, under the leadership of Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard. He joined Pentecostal Temple COGIC in Plymouth, NC, where he was nurtured by his pastor Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard. In 1988, Pastor Horton accepted his calling in ministry and did his initial sermon entitled “The Lord is my Sheppard.” He was ordained an Elder in 1990 by Bishop L.B. Davenport. In 1992, Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard appointed him to be the pastor of Word of Faith Church of God in Christ in Tarboro, NC in the Rocky Mount District. Pastor Horton did a great work while in Tarboro, working hard to spread Elder James Horton, Jr. Pastor First Lady Cynthia Horton the word of God and helping families in need. During his time in Tarboro, Pastor Horton spread the word of God through his television ministry and had a clothing bank for families in need. Hurricane Floyd came through the east, Tarboro, and Edgecombe County with an unprecedent flood destroying the new church building and most of the families in the ministry was displaced from their homes and lost everything. In that moment Pastor Horton took charge, taking a leave of absence from his job to help the people. He took his resources and donations from others and started a distribution center for the people of the community. He helped the people by feeding them meals every day, providing clothing and housing to people impacted by the flood. Pastor and First Lady Horton opened their home to two families during that time to stay with them. Pastor Horton was a blessing to the Tarboro community and was there for his flock in many ways. Pastor Horton’s ministry work did not stop in Tarboro! In March 2005, Pastor Horton was directed by the Lord to open a new ministry in Greenville, NC. New Life Deliverance Center was established at 715 Abermarle Avenue, Greenville NC. With the new location we were put under the leadership of the late Superintendent Clarence Freeman of the Greater Windsor District. The new ministry, New Life Deliverance Center Church of

God in Christ was founded on the motto: “To know your Bible is to know your God; and to know your God is to know your Bible.” Pastor Horton continued his clothing ministry along with adding a church food bank delivering food to families in the church and throughout the community. Pastor Horton and the church family worked tirelessly for 14 years at this location preaching and spreading the gospel in the city, state, and around the country. In January 2019, God placed it on Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard’s heart to allow New Life Deliverance Center to move to a new location formerly known as Word Proclaim Church of God In Christ under Pastor Charles Frank. Pastor Horton and the New Life Deliverance Church family moved to 407 Highway 903 North Greenville, NC on February 3, 2019. New Life Deliverance has extended its work in the community by continuing the food bank, clothing drive, and connecting with local outreach programs providing whatever is needed. Pastor James Horton and the New Life Deliverance Center COGIC church family are glad to still be in the Greater Windsor District under Superintendent Theroger White. Pastor James H. Horton Jr. and New Life Deliverance COGIC is still standing by the motto:” To know your Bible is to know your God; and to know your God is to know your Bible.”

Church Motto: “To know your Bible is to know your God; and to know your God is to know your Bible.” 92

Formerly Mission of Prayer Church of God in Christ

The Mission of Prayer located in Washington,

NC was established in a little run down 4 room house by the late Elder Lonnie M. Sutton, Sr. and Mother Mary Sutton in the early seventies. The saints Elder Lo would run to prayer leaving their car doors open, nnie M. Sutton a nd Moth er Mary looking for a move of God. They stayed there, prayed, fasted, Sutton worked together, selling dinners and hosted all kinds of fundraisers. Finally, Pastor Sutton had funds in 3 banks and began to build God a house. November 4, 1979, the saints marched from the old house to the newly erected sanctuary, named Sutton Tabernacle for the dedication. The church has been standing on the promises of God for 41 years supporting Street Ministry; Food Distribution; Clothing Distribution; Nursing Homes; Battered Homes for Women & Children; and Women and Children of Incarcerated Parents. Pastor Sutton went home to be with the Lord on March 7, 2006. Elder Cornelius Paige (a devoted son-in-love) had labored with him in the gospel for 27 years. Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard installed him as Pastor on March 28, 2006. Pastor Paige continues to carry the mantle, and serve diligently with Supt. A.B. Parker, Sr. in the Bishop W. Wells District. Evangelist Missionary Evette Sutton Paige works diligently with him in the ministry and with the GNCJ Department of Women, as Christian Women’s Council President, and Advisory Board Chair. We trust God, because HIS WORD stands the test of time, which affords us Better Homes, Better Schools, Better Communities, and a Better World. God is good all the time, and all the time God is Good! It does not matter what it looks like, whether it be Finance, Romance or Circumstance, our God can handle it according to Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Elder Cornelius Paige, Pastor Evangelist Missionary Evette Sutton Paige, First Lady

Founded 1970

Greensboro, NC

Rescue Temple #2 In 1970, Elder Sanford Branch wanted to start a mission on the hill, what was then called Mark Town. He found a storefront building on Bishop Road in Greensboro, North Carolina to be used as a church, he went to his niece, Evangelist Mable Smith and her husband Elder Ornell Smith with his idea of opening the mission. They opened the door with a revival conducted by Mother Mabel Smith on a Mother Mabel Smith Sunday afternoon and the church was born. Souls were saved and added under the ministry. Under their leadership, the church named Rescue Temple #2 Church of God in Christ. In 1973, Elder Branch signed the building over to the Smiths. During those years God elevated the first soul that were saved from that revival, Floyd D. Headen, from deacon to the minister. He became the Pastor and branched off to start the church services at Elder Floyd & First Lady Headen 11 a.m. God gave Elder Headen a vision to build onto the storefront to expand the church. So, in 1985 the vision came to pass, and the storefront was enlarged and made it to be what it is today. The blue windows remain in the old part of the building to remind the Saints of how good God has been and where He brought us from.

Assistant Pastor Elder Derrick Murray Pastor Floyd Headen

Pastor Floyd D. Headen

Lloyd’s Chapel Church of God in Christ

Holy Mission COGIC was founded on faith and prayer. Through much prayer God directed our Pastor, Elder James Lloyd, to come to Robersonville, NC. He came not knowing where he was going to lodge but obeying the voice of God. The Lord already had the way made and when our Pastor and his wife, Mother Eva Lloyd arrived, Deacon George Brown and Missionary Lela Brown welcomed them in their home on April 13, 1971. They began to pray together and as the prayer meeting continued, God began to bless, and people came from far and near. Not only were they praying but Elder Lloyd was preaching the word of God. Soon the home was getting overcrowded for the meeting and the Lord gave unto Elder Lloyd that it was time to start looking for a church. His main thought was to win souls for Christ. They were invited to use the home of Deacon Daniel Brown and Missionary Dorothy Brown while seeking a church home. As Pastor and the saints continued to search for a new church home, they had to keep in mind what funds there were to work with. God already had this “little wooden house beside the road” for our pastor to choose for the first mission. We do not understand God’s plans all the time, but we know all things work together for the good of them that love the Lord. The owner of the building was then asked if it could be rented and converted into a church. The Lord touched his heart and he granted our Pastor and saints permission to convert the house. The Pastor and saints began diligently working on the building. The foundation of the building had to be secured. Two wall petitions had to be removed, also repairing the walls, and painting inside and outside of the building. The roof had to be worked on, the underpinning checked, and the altar had to be built. In addition, all the other preparations had to be done. There were hard knocks and bumps along the way, but God had His way of encouraging the saints to go forward, and slowly but surely, the building began to look like a church instead of a house. Soon the church was ready, and God let the saints know that “it was good.” In July of 1971, the late Bishop Wyoming Wells dedicated Holy Mission. Initially, there were only two members that had cars and transportation was made available to the saints without cars on service nights and Sundays. It was a great sacrifice, but the saints continue to pray “Lord send on help.” The Lord heard their cry and help started to come. Souls began coming in twos and by families. God was blessing and the church was growing. Souls were being converted and many miracles wrought. The members started a building fund drive, and many friends and neighbors’ hearts were touched. They helped to support the work of the Lord. God was not only blessing the church naturally but also spiritually.

Elder Donnie R. Carr, Sr., Pastor Theresa G. Carr, First Lady 99

The Lord, through a vision, spoke to Elder Lloyd to let him know that it was time to build a house for God and the people of God. The Lord blessed us to purchase a lot. Elder Lloyd and the brethren cleaned up the lot so that the foundation could be prepared. Within a few months the foundation was ready to be laid. When the work ceased due to weather conditions, God spoke to Elder Lloyd to gather all the saints together to pray. The Lord blessed our Pastor Lloyd and the brothers to return to work to complete the structure. Our pastor and brothers made great sacrifices as they worked on their regular day job and worked long hours at night for the Lord. Working alongside the pastor allowed the brothers to learn many things about building and using wise tactics. While work was being done at the new church, the saints were praying and yet praising God at Holy Mission. The Lord brought us all together into the unity and perfection of His spirit and helped us along with other friends, neighbors, and acquaintances to erect what is now Lloyd’s CHAPEL COGIC. On Sunday, June 17, 1979, Lloyd’s Chapel COGIC was dedicated to the Lord by the late Bishop L.B. Davenport. The church began to grow by leaps and bounds through the vision and leadership of Pastor, Elder James Lloyd. As the membership grew, so did our auxiliaries. “Lloyd’s Chapel Christian Band” was developed through a vision given by Mother Eva Mae Lloyd. Mother Lloyd purchased different instruments and distributed them to the children as she was led by God. Elder Lloyd approved the band with prayer and the anointing of the young instrument players and God tremendously blessed each player. Pastor Lloyd, Mother Lloyd, and the saints of God continued the journey together in loving and enjoying the presence of God. We witnessed many healings and miracles wrought by God. In May 2014, Elder James Lloyd, became ill and was unable to attend Church. Elder Lloyd prayed, anointed, and commissioned Minister Donnie R. Carr, Sr. to pastoring and overseeing the business of Lloyd’s Chapel COGIC, reporting directly to him until further notice was given. March 9, 2015, our pastor and leader, Elder James Lloyd, after serving 44 years as a true man of God, transitioned to be with the Lord. Pastor Lloyd a great gospel pioneer, influenced so many people with his grace, and love that was displayed every time you met him. The church members and the people in the public that knew him suffered emotional distress and hurt due to this great loss.

In April 2015, Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard, ordained Minister Donnie R. Carr, Sr. to the rank of Elder. On June 2, 2015, Bishop Woolard returned to install Elder Donnie R. Carr, Sr. as the new pastor of Lloyd’s Chapel COGIC. God’s anointing and favor placed upon Pastor Carr, and the sincere love that comes from his wife, Theresa, have ensured the members of Lloyd’s Chapel COGIC that this was the plan of God. The church has remained in love with each other and we are all together growing in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. The vision from God to our leader, Pastor Donnie R. Carr, Sr. is being implemented and respected by the members. Keeping our youth, young men, and young women involved and engaged in the church is a priority for Pastor Carr and Lady Carr. Endeavoring to do his best for God, Elder Donnie R. Carr, Sr., resides presently as pastor and leader of Lloyd’s Chapel COGIC.

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T EMPLE

CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST Founded 1977

Troy, North Carolina

“Therefore whosoever heareth these saying of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.” (Matthew 7:24-25 (KJV) “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Matthew 16:18 (KJV) In the history of Revival Temple, there has been many changes from the humble beginning. Our history begins after a two-week revival conducted by the late Superintendent James H. Turner. The Holy Spirit led Superintendent Turner to tell the people that, “he would establish a church in the Troy area, if he could get one person to join that night.” The first member joined that night, Mrs. Doris Jean Martin of Troy, N.C. (she is the Asheboro District Missionary). From that night, the church was organized in the living room of Brother and Sister Joseph Jones of Troy, N.C. The first place of worship to the Lord was in the community of Robedoe outside of Troy, North Carolina with the assistance of Elder and Sister Stanback and Minister Jessie J. Clegg. It was named Revival Temple Church of God in Christ and made a part of the Asheboro District. These events happen during the years of 1977-1978. Membership to the church grew as the ministry continued. In August 1980, the church moved from the Robedoe Community to the Springdale Heights Community outside of Troy, its present location. From a little red store that was purchased Superintendent Jame s Henry & from Mr. John Broadway, renovations were made, and First Lady Willa Dean Turner worship services begun.

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In the early 1980’s, Elder Jessie J. Clegg was appointed pastor of the church and soon after an enlargement of the sanctuary began with much of the work being done by him along with the church members. Soon after, the Lord elevated Elder Clegg to Superintendent of the Mocksville District. The renovations to the church were completed in 1990. In May 1993, Superintendent Clegg passed away while preaching his morning message in the pulpit at Revival Temple. Superintendent E.C. Cannon became the Interim Pastor and the church was reassigned back to the Asheboro District and the Mocksville District was dissolved. In 1994, Elder Paul Earl Whitley Sr. was appointed Pastor by Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard, and he has proven to be a shepherd indeed, following in the footsteps of Superintendent Turner and Clegg. He preaches and teaches the unadulterated Word of God in spirit and in truth. After the arrival of Pastor Whitley land was purchased across Pastor Paul Whitley, Sr. from the church, for parking and other activities. In 1997, First Lady Joycetine Whitley more renovations were completed. In 2013, an Enrichment Center (fellowship hall), along with renovations to the sanctuary. The blessing of God has been and still is mightily upon the ministry of Revival Temple Church of God in Christ as we obey and follow His directions. There are so many things the Lord has done from the beginning until now for Revival Temple. The church continues to move forward in God and reaches out to the community through the H.O.P.E. Community Outreach ministry which upholds the mission of the church Glorify God, Edify the Saints and Evangelize the Lost. Revival Temple has served as a trailblazing and well-respected church in the Superintendent Paul Whitley Montgomery County area and beyond. Many churches have gleaned from Revival Temple’s concepts that have helped their ministries, the pastor and church congregation. The church has been in high demand to render services for other ministries in and outside the Church of God in Christ. The church has a bright and promising future ahead as it follows leadership, the Word of God, much prayer and fasting, and being totally led by the Holy Ghost, unifying ourselves in the belief of the church motto: “We are better Together”. To God be the glory for blessing Revival Temple Church of God in Christ to be planted in this part of the vineyard.

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People’s Faith Founded 1964

Roper, North Carolina People’s Faith Church of God in Christ began with 8 members. Bishop L.B. Davenport appointed Elder Roberson and Missionary Louise Roberson to be Pastor and First Lady in Roper, NC. The first service took place in an old home owned by Deacon Leroy Wilkins. Pastor Roberson continued to have service at that location until the Lord gave him a vision to build God’s people a church. The Lord gave Elder Roberson the church name People’s Faith because it was built by the faith of the people. Several years went by, the enemy attacked, and the church was burned down. That did not stop Pastor Roberson. They used their garage so the saints could have a place of worship until a new church was built. A new church was built, and Superintendent Leroy Woolard officiated a dedication service for the new church. First Lady Louise Roberson worked tirelessly by her husband’s side while he continued to serve as Pastor of People’s Faith for 26 years until the Lord called him home. In 2004, the Lord put it in the heart of Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard to install Elder Nathaniel Williams as Pastor of People’s Faith Church of God in Christ after seeking the approval of the Lord. Pastor Williams and First Lady Ann Williams came to People’s Faith with a vision to do the work of the Lord that God had assigned to their hands. In 2007, Pastor Williams saw that the church needed a Fellowship Hall, a Pastor’s Study, and new bathrooms. The work began by prayer and leadership and the tireless work of the people of God. First Lady Ann Williams was there working and doing everything she could to bring Pastor’s vision to pass. The people began to work and in 2009, the Fellowship Hall, the Pastor’s Study and bathrooms were completed. Pastor Williams also added a food pantry. His vision did not stop there, he purchased a 25passenger bus for the people of God, he also started a radio ministry called “The Church That’s On Fire For The Lord.” The Lord has truly blessed People’s Faith COGIC. To God be the glory!

Elder Nathaniel & First Lady Ann Williams 103

Mother Dorothy Brown, Church Mother

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LIGHTHOUSE Church of God in Christ Jackson Springs, NC Founded 1981 Lighthouse Church began in a Tent Revival in Belle Acres community, near Candor, North Carolina. Superintendent James Turner sent various Elders to conduct Revival Services in the Belle Acres community. There were many saved, delivered, healed, and set free. The preached word of God was received with great joy. Those who attended the revival expressed an interest in establishing a Church in the community. Supt. Turner, Asheboro District Superintendent at the time, granted the opportunity for those who were interested in establishing a church to stand in order to make interest publicly known. Over 29 people responded and Elder Patrick Wooden was assigned to oversee the small congregation. Five Ordained Elders (Elder Patrick Wooden, Elder Garcia Morman, Elder Mitchel Little and Elder William Everette) pioneered the work to fully establish the ministry. It was then, the United District Auxillaries Conference (UDAC) was established. Regular Bible Study was held and subsequently moved to the home of Kenneth and Linda Cagles. In 1981, Elder Patrick Wooden was officially appointed Pastor of Lighthouse COGIC, which became the first church in Candor N.C. fulfilling Supt. Turner’s vision to plant churches in areas where COGIC churches didn’t exist. Elder Wooden labored with the people in the ministry for years until the demise of Supt. Turner. In 1993, Elder Garcia Morman was appointed Pastor of Lighthouse COGIC by Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard and Elder Wooden was reassigned to Upper Room COGIC in Raleigh N.C. as Pastor under the leadership of the late Bishop Davenport.

Errol L. Woolard, Pastor Darnetta Woolard, First Lady 105

Elder Garcia Morman was diagnosed with cancer in March 2015, passed away in Sept. 2017 and was replaced by Elder Ginyard and wife in 2018. Due to failing health, he left Lighthouse and moved to another state. Elder Ginyard subsequently passed away in 2019 and Missionary Brenda Ingram kept the ministry going with the faithful few that supported her. In 2019, Pastor Errol L. Woolard who was pastoring in Jacksonville, Florida was invited to speak at Lighthouse Church as a candidate for the Pastorate. He was overwhelmingly accepted by the members that were present and was told to “go ahead and start” pastoring as the church was without a pastor for approximately four months. The installation of Errol L. Woolard as Pastor of Lighthouse Church commenced on October 22, 2019, officiated by Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard. As the new pastor, Pastor Woolard worked diligently on the edifice of the church to enhance the beauty of the place of worship. He painted the outside of the Church using his own funds; brought pulpit furniture from Florida; gave the church a Hammond B3 organ with a Leslie 122 Speaker; gave the church a bus; gave the church a state of the art sound system and microphones; built a sound room; installed new entrance doors leading to the sanctuary; installed new hardwood flooring on the platform and pulpit area; and recently installed a handicap ramp for wheelchair accessibility.

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TEMPLE OF PRAYER Superintendent Harold R. McDonald, Pastor Lady Clarietta McDonald Manasseh’s first worship service was held at Jordan Hall, Harrington St. Cary, North Carolina, it was then known as Manasseh Community COGIC. In October 1979, the church relocated to the Raleigh Community Building 500 Branch Street Raleigh North Carolina. And the name was changed to Manasseh COGIC February 1980. The worshippers and founders up to this point were Bro. Mike Pierce, John and Sis. Deloris Pearson, Bro. Theodore and Sis. Barbara David and Sis.Carrie Smith. These individuals sought spiritual guidance from Supt. C. E. Anderson, Sr. and he appointed Elder Emmett M. Turner, Jr. as pastor and his wife Missionary Judy Turner along with their children became members of Manasseh COGIC. As the church grew under Pastor Tuners’ leadership, Mother Jacqueline Jeffries, Elder Charles Williams, Evangelist Missionary Joyce Williams and family joined the church. In the summer of 1982, the Lord blessed the Manasseh church family to purchase its own church building from Bishop M.S. Nesbitt at 212 Linden Avenue, Raleigh North Carolina. As time moved rapidly, God blessed mightily and a vision to build was given to Pastor Turner. Five acres of land was purchased at 4900 Rolesville Road in Wendell North Carolina and the groundbreaking took place in March 1997. The ministry grew and flourished for many years under Pastor Emmett M. Turner until his passing in October 2001. After a period of mourning, Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard appointed Elder Harold R. McDonald as the Pastor of Manasseh COGIC in 2002. The church has experienced growth, souls saved, bodies healed and other ministerial blessings. After several years, God gave Pastor McDonald instructions to take the church to a new level and to change the name to The Temple of Prayer, according to Matthew 21:13. God has continued to bless the ministry and children have become adults that love the Lord. In 2015, Pastor Harold R. McDonald was appointed Superintendent of Greater Greensboro District.

FOUNDED FEBRUARY 1979

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SHILOH HOLINESS Church of God in Christ Founded 1981

Pastor Robert A. and Evangelist Shirley Taylor founded Shiloh Holiness COGIC in 1981. Shiloh had several stops before building its current edifice which sits on seven acres of land. For over 20 years Pastor Taylor successfully ran an affordable daycare center housed on the church premise. Many souls were saved and lives changed as a result of Pastor Taylor’s ministry. Pastor Taylor was called from labor to reward in 2018. Pastor Richard A. Hurey serves as the current Pastor of Shiloh Holiness COGIC. He is the proud husband of First Lady Shaunte Hurey for over 18 years and the proud father of four beautiful children Ymari, Christyn, Victorya and Richard Jr. Since becoming the Pastor, Pastor Hurey has led several renovations including freshly painting the entire campus, commercial roof & gutters, state of the art fellowship hall, and completely waterproofing the basement. Under Pastor Hurey’s leadership many youth and young adults have committed their lives to the Lord. Pastor Hurey is the generational bridge builder and visionary leader who desires to utilize the resources he has inherited to build a ministry that ministers to the total man.

Richard A. Hurey, Pastor Shaunte Hurey, First Lady

Greensboro, NC 111

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TrueWay Holiness Church of God in Christ TrueWay Holiness Church of God in Christ has certainly come a long way since its early conception on the First Sunday in August 1983, in the home of Elder Clarence and Sharion on 502 Governors Road, Windsor, North Carolina. The Church started from a house prayer service. Elder Freeman had an extremely difficult time coming up with a name for the newly evolved church because he was convinced that he did not want a “Freeman’s Temple”, but rather a name that had a significant spiritual meaning. The Lord eventually gave him the name while attending the Holy Convocation of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in the city of Philadelphia. He started out with only eight (8) people, but the Lord began to bless and increase the membership. The Word of the Lord was preached under the anointing of the Holy Ghost and the saints would praise and worship the Lord to the point that the location was no longer appropriate and he had to look for another place to worship. In 1984, Elder Clarence Freeman inquired about a building downtown on 112 King Street to use as a house of worship for the saints and thank God he was granted the approval to use it. The rent was only $100.00 a month. The spirit of the Lord would move in that building, souls were saved and filled with the Holy Ghost. The young people were coming and bringing their friends to hear the Word of God. The saints would go in the back and eat lunch, then go back in the sanctuary for Young People’s Willing Workers (YPWW) or night service. We stayed there for eleven (11) years and it wasn’t the best to look at, but the Lord met us in that place and love, joy, peace and the Holy Ghost abode there. Visitors would come and always say they felt the love when they came in the door. Our oldest son Keavin would play the drums and Lady Freeman would be on the piano. God saw our worth and TrueWay made another move. “Stay Tuned” 113

In 1994, the Lord showed Elder Clarence Freeman a vision of a church next door to his house where there was a field of shrubbery and small trees. In 1995, groundbreaking service for a house of worship was held with Elder Glenn Sawyer (the contractor that built our new edifice and The New Mount Zion COGIC), which would become the new home for TrueWay Holiness COGIC located at 504 Governors Road in Windsor, NC. We secured a thirty (30) year mortgage and with the help of the Lord and TrueWay members, we paid off the mortgage in fifteen (15) years. On Sunday, August 8, 2010, Bishop LeRoy Jackson Woolard, came to conduct “The Act of Burning the Mortgage”. Superintendent Dr. Clarence Earl Freeman remained the Pastor for thirty-nine (39) years at TrueWay Holiness until his transition on December 29, 2020. He was a faithful man to the Gospel, his loving and devoted wife, Lady Sharion Oliver Freeman, his sons, daughters, grandchildren, and his leader. GONE, BUT NEVER WILL BE FORGOTTEN! On January 19, 2021, Bishop LeRoy Jackson Woolard, appointed Elder Kendall R. Freeman, with his lovely wife, Britney H. Freeman, the new Pastor of TrueWay Holiness COGIC. To God Be the Glory, for the things he has done!

The Original House

The Storefront

District Missionary Clara W. Drake 114

Elder Gary L. Cordon, Sr. was appointed the Pastor of Macedonia Church of God in Christ in August 1983, while still serving as an assistant to Bishop L.B. Davenport, Pastor at Bazemore Temple COGIC in Windsor, NC. Elder Cordon remained at Bazemore Temple COGIC until November 1983, where the six members of Macedonia COGIC would come on third Sundays to hear their Pastor preach. Bishop L.B. Davenport, the Pastor and Jurisdictional Bishop of Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction Church of God in Christ, asked Elder Cordon to leave Bazemore Temple COGIC with the people who were saved under his ministry while serving there. Two additional people wrote letters to follow Elder Cordon, which led to the formation of the new membership of Macedonia COGIC.

Pastor Gary Cordon First Lady Ch ris Cordon

We were not allowed to use the name New Macedonia COGIC. Five saints came together and prayed, Elder Gary Cordon, Sr., Missionary Chris Cordon, Missionary Ida Owens, Sister Marion Williams, and Sister Eunice Barnes, seeking the Lord for a new name for our church. Pastor Cordon said the new name of our church would be Victory Temple Church of God in Christ and our scripture is, 1 Corinthians 15:57. “But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” The building used for worship was not owned by the church, but by a family who allowed the former Pastor Elmer Cooper to use it. It was the oldest church in the county with its inception in the Church of God in Christ in the early 1930’s. The building became uninhabitable, and we had to find a place to worship. Our first place to worship was the PPI Building in Windsor, NC with 27 people! We continued at the PPI Building about three months until Holy Tabernacle Church of God in Christ International disbanded, leaving their building vacant. We moved in for the first service on January 29, 1984. We worshipped there until July of 2007. During that time, Pastor Cordon had a Radio Broadcast called “Self-Control Christ-Control Ministry.” We also had a Prison Ministry in Creswell, NC.

1987 Pastor Cordon made the decision to go full-time into the ministry as Pastor. First Lady Chris Cordon supported his decision by working hard to support and supplement her husband’s income. Her personal tithes and offerings played an important role in his ability to work full time in the ministry. Elder Gary L. Cordon, Sr. also began serving as Assistant Superintendent to Superintendent Alexander Dixon of the Edenton District COGIC.

1990 Bishop LeRoy Jackson Woolard was appointed to the office of Jurisdictional Prelate. Elder

Cordon was appointed as Chairman of Finance for the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Bishop LeRoy Jackson Woolard.

2004 On July 12, 2004, First Lady Cordon was contacted regarding the use of a facility

to see if it was adequate for childcare. In August 2004, she toured the building with the inquirer and discovered that it was inadequate for childcare without spending lots of money for repairs and renovations. The young lady was not interested in spending that kind of money in the facility, so First Lady Cordon asked her if she would allow us to use the building for a church. She agreed. God moved supernaturally in many ways that led to the purchase and the constructing renovations of the new Victory Temple Church of God in Christ, The Evidence Church. (See Hebrews 11:1). In addition, Pastor and First Lady Cordon owned and operated a newspaper “24-7 Communications” with a monthly circulation of 5,000, spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

2007 July 15, 2007 – Three years after purchasing the building, Bishop LeRoy Jackson Woolard dedicated our renovated new 6,000 sq. ft. facility.

2008 Due to the frequent hurricanes, tornadoes, storms, and flooding in Bertie County,

we became a community emergency disaster site designation to aid and support the rescue workers and people affected by disasters whenever they occur. We also collaborate with our church member Mrs. Vivian Saunders, creator of the Bertie County Hive House and Family Resource Center to provide immediate and focused assistance to families of Bertie County and eastern North Carolina.

2010 Pastor G. L. Cordon, Sr. Hosted bi-weekly TCT’s “Ask the Pastor” and “Triangle Alive” from the studios in Wilson, NC. June 2010 marked the first Annual Community Prayer Walk and The Women’s Empowerment Ministry were established by Mother Ida Freeman-Owens. In August, Drs. Gary and Chris Cordon established an accredited Bible School - The Evidence Bible Institute

2011 Pastor Gary L. Cordon, Sr. published book “Your Guide to Biblical Fasting” 2018 In August, The Evidence Bible Institute became The Evidence Bible College. 2019 We began to broadcast live and recorded messages and Bible studies 24 hours a day 7-days a week on all ROKU televisions in the world.

2021 We will celebrate 38 years as Victory Temple Church of God in Christ and 14 years in our present location as Victory Temple Church of God in Christ: The Evidence Church, and 11 years with an accredited college. Our faith is certainly giving us “Evidence”!

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House of Prayer

Church of God in Christ

Elder George Coney, Jr., Pastor Evangelist Missionary Mollie L. Coney - First Lady House of Prayer Church of God in Christ (COGIC) (formerly Smith Temple #2) was established in May 1984 by Superintendent Thomas C. Leak of Fayetteville, North Carolina. Our first service was held in the home of the late Mother Allie Marie Boone. In 1988, God inspired Superintendent Leak to move outside into the community. After consulting with Mother Boone, she graciously consented to having a tent erected on her front lawn. Thus, the Word of God was going out into the highways and hedges. As time passed on, the Lord blessed this ministry to purchase land and a building. On October 17, 1993, we went from prayer in the kitchen to worship in the church edifice. Through preaching and teaching of the Word of God in this sanctuary, the ministry continued to grow and the word of salvation reached many souls through radio and cable television broadcasting. On May 13, 1999, after prayerful consideration of the ministry, Superintendent Leak appointed Elder George Coney Jr. as pastor because of his faithfulness and loyalty to the ministry. As the Holy Spirit continued to move and bless in the services, Elder Coney was inspired by God to change the name of the church to House of Prayer Church of God in Christ deriving it from Mark 11:17. The Lord blessed us to dedicate our new edifice on April 7, 2007. Over the years the ministry has experienced sweeps of growth and waves of storms as God continues to move in our midst.

FOUNDED 1984

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Where we began....

Where we are now

The late Mo t

her Allie Ma rie Boone

yn Hargrove il r a M y r a n issio Evangelist M ch Mother Chur

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New Covenant Ministries New Covenant Ministries began in 1985 on the Island of Okinawa, Japan in the providence of Kin-ville with seven young men. New Covenant began to grow; families began to come and within eight months, New Covenant Ministry had a membership of about seventy-five brothers and sisters, outgrowing the little Mission. The Lord led Pastor Robinson to seek a larger facility. Pastor Robinson met a Japanese Realtor who took him directly to a building that became the future home for the Ministry. Upon his return to the United States in 1986, Pastor Robinson prayed for God’s direction and in October, the Lord spoke and gave the instruction to continue the work. This was the beginning of New Covenant Ministries in Jacksonville, North Carolina with seven members in Pastor Robinson`s living room on Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. In November 1986, Pastor Robinson located a small building on New Bridge Street and New Covenant was blessed to grow tremendously in the downtown area. Outgrowing the current location, in 1991, Pastor Robinson located the building at 933 Richlands Highway and the Ministry again flourished.

Pastor Superintendent Virgin Robinson, III & First Lady Theresa Robinson

A search team was tasked to the southwest area of Onslow County to locate land for the next move of the Ministry in 1995. They located three and a half acres of land with a building located on it that was in need of renovation. After successful completion of the renovation process, the Ministry settled “ D u r i n g p r a y e r i n 2 0 1 0 , P a s t o r R o b i n s o n into the 1611 Murrill Hill Road p e t i t i o n e d t h e L o r d f o r h e l p a n d t o g i v e location and witnessing the Lord move and a multitude of him direction…” souls saved. After a series of storms and hurricanes in 2003, the renovated building suffered flooding and mold. Based on this discovery, the Ministry moved to several school locations for Sunday Worship Service and was blessed to be able to hold weekly bible study at New Hope Holy Church. In 2008, doors were opened once again, and New Covenant was blessed to be able to assemble at the 352 Wardola Drive location.

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At this location, Mother Sherri Aiken asked Pastor Robinson if she could spearhead the Building Fund Committee. She was eager, enthusiastic, focused and truly dedicated. Mother Aiken got busy and conducted many fundraisers, banquets, car washes, dinner sales, youth fundraisers and several change rallies. It was through all these efforts combined that helped New Covenant to move closer and closer to their goal. During prayer in 2010, Pastor Robinson petitioned the Lord for help and to give him direction to meet someone who could help the Ministry. It was through prayer where Pastor Robinson was led go to a specific location. While there, Pastor Robinson met a business owner who had property for sale that could be for a church. After visiting the property, Pastor Robinson was assured that the Lord had given this property to the Ministry. Pastor Robinson stayed prayerful, faithful, and stood on God’s promise for four years. He journeyed daily and sat in the parking lot of the property, often walking around praying and calling those things that be not as if they were. In April 2015, Pastor asked Mother Aiken to call the owner to see if the property was still for sale. After hearing it was still for sale and that the price of the property had been reduced tremendously, Pastor Robinson started teaching on divine favor. The Ministry began to witness God sending favor through the consultant, CPA, bankers, engineers, and contractors. He gave the Ministry favor within the county offices. To God be the glory! New Covenant closed on the 121 Stillwood Drive property on December 31, 2015. Following the renovation process, the Ministry held the first service on July 31, 2016 with 147 people in attendance, five souls saved and three families joining the Ministry. Speak it, believe it and receive it!

Founded 1986 ~~ Jacksonville, NC “The Ministry That Makes The Difference”

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CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST

Founded 1988

St. Mark Church of God in Christ was formally named as St. Mark Holiness Church. After a few years, the pastor resigned, and the flock was scattered. In 1988, the two remaining members called for Elder Theodore Smith to pastor the church. It was then renamed St. Mark Church of God in Christ. Pastoring two churches soon became too burdensome for Pastor Smith; therefore, he sent Elder James and Missionary Gwendolyn Stokley to assist him at St. Mark. Within a year’s time, at the request of the only member left, Elder Stokley was installed as the pastor. After a few years, the church began to grow. The Lord began to add souls to the church. St. Mark is located in Marion, North Carolina and serves in the Land of the Sky Asheville District St. Mark Church of God in Christ is a praying church and a loving church, a Cross teaching church and a church that preaches Holiness just like the Bible says. St. Mark has become a spiritual hospital for many of the sin-sick souls in the community. This is St. Mark Church of God in Christ!

Elder James and First Lady Gwendolyn Stokley

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VOICES OF EVANGELISM CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST Elder Michael G. Morman, Pastor Sister April R. Morman, First Lady

Indeed, it was God, who in His providential Wisdom and Sovereign and Divine Will and purpose, commissioned the late District Superintendent/Elder Garcia L. Morman, Sr., to expand His Kingdom through preaching the unadulterated gospel, teaching foundational principles that are grounded in biblical truth, and evangelistic outreach, to establish the Voice of Evangelism COGIC, a Pentecostal body of believers, in Morven, North Carolina. Voice of Evangelism is the first and only Church of God in Christ in Morven, a small quaint rural town which is quietly located in the Pee Dee Region of the Sandhills in neighboring Anson County. The late Superintendent Garcia L. Morman, Sr., a native and lifelong resident of Rockingham, in Richmond County, NC., was saved, sanctified, baptized, and filled with the Holy Ghost in 1977, at the age of 19 years old. He was a proselyte, a humble son in the gospel, a fellow-laborer, personal companion, and an anointed singer/soloist, who faithfully served under the tutelage of the late District Superintendent James H. Turner, pastor of the Temple COGIC and Superintendent of the Asheboro District Superintendent. Oftentimes, he accompanied or drove, and made himself available to attend services across the state and out of the state. He was called upon regularly to transport, labor, and assist in erecting the tent for tent revivals whenever and wherever they were held. Tremendously affected by the loss and demise of his pastor in 1987, Elder Morman continued serving and supporting the Temple COGIC under the new pastoral leadership of the late Elder William Cromer. After a season of intense prayer and fasting, God spoke to him, giving separation orders and guidance for the work in Morven, NC. He consulted with his leader and his wife, and was given their prayers and blessings, approval, and pledged support. The remaining ministerial staff, which included some of his friends and brothers in the Lord: Elder Curtis Morman, Elder William Everett, and Elder Mitchell Littles, and many fellow brethren did likewise.

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Elder Morman, joined by his supportive wife, Debbie, and their young children, embarked upon the laborious task to answer the call of God on his life/their lives in a totally new territory, the town of Morven, NC. And the Lord granted them grace and favor for the work. Elder Morman consulted with Mother Willa Turner, widow of Supt. Turner, who was owner and remained in possession of a large canvas tent, metal folding chairs, keyboard, and other electronic equipment of the Power for Every Hour Ministries. Mother Turner kindly consented to the use of the canvas tent and equipment for the revival services. To acquire consent for access and use of property to erect the “gospel tent” in Morven, Elder Morman consulted with a friend, Minister Michael Caple Sr., who lived in a nearby community and personally knew many of the religious and political leaders in the town. Minister Caple was very instrumental in introducing Elder Morman to some of the pastors, city council members, the town’s mayor, Mr. Preston Short, who was one of the large property owners in Morven. Minister Caple also introduced Elder Morman to Mrs. Hazel Poe, the niece of Mrs. Lucretia Coleman, of Thomasville, NC, who was the owner of a vacant dilapidated building and property that had been unoccupied for many years, and she was willing to rent her building. Elder Morman met and negotiated with each of them, and all graciously gave their consent individually, for use of their properties in the furtherance of the work of Kingdom of God. Mr. Short granted access and use of his property free of any cost. Mrs. Coleman granted use of her building and property rent free for one year in exchange for the cost of repairs to her building. Lastly, the necessary permits were acquired and fees, cost of materials and labor were paid. Simultaneously, the work to renovate the vacant building for occupancy and plans to erect the “big top gospel tent” for revival services were continued in process, both with progress and success in the early spring until the early summer months of 1989. The upcoming revival was publicized and the news of it was received with great anticipation throughout the town, surrounding communities and vicinities. On the opening night, the aroma of fresh sawdust filled the tent and the sweet aroma of the presence of the Lord filled the atmosphere. We experienced the Heavens open over the town in continuous nightly service for over 45 days. We are eyewitnesses of the power in preaching the simplicity of the gospel of Jesus Christ under the anointing of the Holy Ghost with signs and wonders following; souls being saved and forgiven of sins, lives transformed; believers being filled with the Holy Ghost; sick bodies miraculously healed; deliverances from demonic bondages, oppressions, possessions, and souls liberated and loosed into spiritual freedom to serve the Living God. God’s glory in our midst. The Holy Ghost held captive every religious and denominational barrier that had existed for years. Some Pastors and their congregations attended service nightly, others in the community opened their doors and windows, listened from within their homes, sat on their porches, lawns, vehicles; and some surrounded the tent and are witnesses to a great move of God. An open door was presented for the furtherance of the gospel of Jesus Christ in Morven that spread abroad throughout the communities and regions of Anson, Union, Richmond, Chesterfield, and Marlboro counties. At the conclusion of the Tent Revival services, many souls joined the Christian faith through a commitment to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and fellowship under the leadership of Elder Garcia L. Morman. The church grew as it continued in daily prayer, weekly bible study, “open air services” held on lawns, passing out tracts door to door, and witnessing.

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Later the same year, we were received into fellowship and the brotherhood of Greater NC Jurisdiction COGIC under the leadership of the late Honorable Bishop L.B. Davenport. Voice of Evangelism COGIC was assigned to the Asheboro District under the leadership of the late District Superintendent E.C. Cannon. Consequentially, Voice of Evangelism COGIC purchased the tent, chairs, and some electronic equipment from Mother Willa Turner for its evangelistic outreach ministry. A few years later, the Mr. Preston Short expressed interest in selling his property and Voice of Evangelism purchased his property (the site of our future edifice, 300 South Loop Road) where the Gospel Tent Revival services were originally held; also Mrs. Lucretia Coleman decided to sell her property, and Voice of Evangelism purchased the building and property that initially housed our first church services. The building has since undergone extensive renovation and some expansion. Lastly, Voice of Evangelism COGIC purchased a new steel building: the foundation and plumbing has been laid; the exterior of the building has been erected; and we were working wholeheartedly under the leadership of our pastor, Elder Michael G. Morman to complete the interior of our new edifice for the glory of God. After the death of District Superintendent Garcia L. Morman, Sr. on September 22, 2017 and at his Celebration of Life Homegoing Service, Bishop Leroy J. Woolard designated his second eldest son who had served humbly in Voice of Evangelism Church of God in Christ for most of his adolescent life, to continue to serve the congregation under the supervision of District Superintendent Thomas Leak, First Administrative Assistant, Greater NC Jurisdiction COGIC, until he (Bishop) made the final decision in appointing a new pastor at the Voice of Evangelism. The audience erupted in thunderous applause of approval. On December 02, 2017, the Honorable Bishop Leroy J. Woolard officially announced and consecrated Elder Michael G. Morman and Sister April R. Morman, his wife as the newly appointed Pastor and First Lady during the Installation Ceremony held at the Greater NC Jurisdiction COGIC Temple Headquarters in Wendell, NC. Our hearts rejoiced and were greatly relieved that this beautiful couple was chosen, and God had bestowed grace, favor, and honor in elevating them into the pastoral leadership. Pastor Michael and First Lady April Morman, and their precious daughter Anelah are our First Family. Pastor Morman immediately called the congregation into prayer as we sought the Lord to continue to heal and comfort our broken hearts after experiencing the tremendous loss of our great leader of 28 years, the late Pastor Garcia L. Morman, Sr. We waited in His presence, for His strength and guidance needed to move the ministry forward. God answered our prayers and comforted, strengthened, and helped us. He’s teaching us; correcting us; empowering us; equipping us; anointing us; and blessing us under the leadership of Pastor Michael G. Morman.

Mother Melcine E. Townsend, Church Mother

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True Way Church is a ministry that believes in empowering everyone to reach their full potential in God by showing them how to apply the Word of God in truth which gives them the tools they need to live a joyous life as a believer of Christ. Elder Darryl and Missionary Theresa Johnson started True Way a few months after they were married in 1991. It started as a Prayer Meeting and Bible Study Class in their home at 605 Penwood Lane in Charlotte, North Carolina. While attending a Sunday school class at New Bethlehem FBH Church, the Lord gave Elder Johnson the name True Way Church of God in Christ. The church received its membership on August 8, 1992, by the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard. As the membership grew, the Lord blessed them to move the church location from their home on August 23, 1992 to 5732 – C Susan Drive. At that location many souls were saved, delivered, healed and encouraged. The power of God moved mightily, elevating the people of God to higher levels in the ministry. Because of the vision God had given Elder Johnson, he felt led to Mother Jenkins move to a bigger, more visible location. On August 6, 2000, a facility at 1134 Commercial Avenue was dedicated for worship. The Lord continued to bless and the ministry continued to flourish. In March of 2003, True Way Church of God in Christ purchased property at 2931 James Road. They began having service in their new sanctuary that was built in May 2009.

Elder Darryl Johnson, Pastor Missionary Theresa Johnson, First Lady

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OF GOD IN CHRIST

Founded 1991

Pastor Bernie & First Lady Ruth Cundiff

Winston-Salem, NC The church beginning was with Full Gospel Deliverance Tabernacle at 1803 Longview Drive, Winston-Salem, NC. Under the leadership at that time, the church began to experience some difficulties, where the leader took a leave of absence. Minister Bernie D. Cundiff and his wife Missionary Ruth Cundiff reached out to Mother Arlie M. Boone and asked her to come and help with the church. During this time, the Lord blessed, and the congregation grew. Upon the pastor’s return, Mother Boone was obedient conveying to him that the Lord said, “He has wrung this place out of your hands.”

As the church headed in a new direction, Mother Boone was unctioned by the Holy Spirit to rename the church. The Lord spoke to her biological sister who was also a member, Mother Sarah Benton. On August 4, 1991 Mother Benton suggested the church be renamed to what it is today First Church of God in Christ. As the Lord continued to bless, many came and many accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior and received the Baptism of the Holy Ghost. As Mother Boone was traveling to the Women’s Convention that year, she met Mother Dorothy Woolard of the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction. Mother Boone was urged to get under the leadership of Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard. Mother Boone expressed that she was not a pastor but there was a real need for one. Elder Glenn Johnson was appointed to be the first pastor by Bishop Woolard. During Elder Johnson’s tenure as pastor, a building fund project was started where each member would give a certain amount each month. To God be the Glory, the treasury increased greatly.

Elder Johnson served seven years before Bishop Woolard appointed Minister Bernie “As Mother Boone was traveling D. Cundiff to become the pastor. A few years to the Women’s Convention …” later, the landlord told the leaders of the church that the building would need to be vacated within 30 days. It was through the prayers of the saints and the favor of God that another place of worship was secured. During this time of transition First Church maintained a full functioning church with all auxiliaries and services and the Lord began to move the people of God “out into the deep” by starting the search for land to build a new church. On November 11, 2001, a groundbreaking service was held where Superintendent Charles W. McMurry blessed the land along with Pastor and First Lady Cundiff, Mother Boone and the congregation. On February 23, 2003, a dedication service was held for First Church of God in Christ, 635 Ontario Street, Winston-Salem, NC. The service was officiated by Jurisdictional Prelate Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard and Superintendent Charles W. McMurray along with many other officers of the church and the community. Looking back over a rich church history, God continues to look upon the First Church of God in Christ family. There are great expectations believing the Lord to take First Church to higher realms in the Spirit as souls are won for Christ. The Church prays that we submit ourselves totally to Him and that His will be done in our lives. To God be the Glory!

SOUL CHAIN MINISTRIES

FOUNDED 1994 PASTOR - ELDER WILBERT TATEM

Soul Chain Ministries Inc. was founded on January 8, 1994 by the late Dr. Fred N. Wiggins and Mother Beatrice Wiggins. On that Saturday, the following came together at the home of Dr. Wiggins to establish Soul Chain Ministries, Inc., Dr. Fred N. Wiggins, Mother Beatrice Wiggins, Evangelist Lois Jordan Cooper, Bro. John Henry Cooper, Elder Edison H. Norman, Mother Carrie Louise Norman, Missionary Geraldine N. Hill, Sis. Irene White, and Sis. Helen Hansford. These faithful saints became the founding members of Soul Chain Ministries. On January 20, 1994, the founding members met again to discuss the purchase of a building on Shannonhouse Road, Edenton, NC. Dr. Wiggins, Mother Wiggins, Elder Norman, Mother Norman, Bro. John Cooper, Evangelist Missionary Lois Cooper, Deacon William Hill, and Evangelist Missionary Geraldine Hill became the original signers for the building. The By-Laws and the slate of officers were adopted and approved at the meeting. Elder Edison Norman was elected as the church treasurer, Missionary Lois J. Cooper, Financial Secretary, Missionary Geraldine N. Hill, Church Secretary, the late Missionary Carrie L. Norman was appointed as church mother. Church services were held in the Travel Host Hotel and the National Guard Armory in Edenton until the purchase of the church building on Shannonhouse Road. The church trustees in the persons of Elder Edison Norman, Mother Carrie L. Norman, Deacon William Hill, Evangelist Missionary Geraldine N. Hill, Evangelist Missionary Lois J, Cooper, Bro. John H. Cooper and Dr. Fred N. Wiggins.

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Pastor joined forces and paid the down payment on the building soon to be Soul Chain Ministries Inc. We entered the building in celebration on April 10, 1994. Under Dr. Wiggins leadership the church membership continued to grow. On July 12, 1994 Dr. Fred N. Wiggins and the membership joined in an installation ceremony. During this ceremony, Soul Chain Ministries Inc. became a part of the Church of God in Christ Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction under the leadership of Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard. Because the Lord added to the church, we were able to establish the following auxiliaries: Missionary Circle, Deacon Board, Pastor’s Aide, Young Women’s Christian Club, Prayer and Bible Band, Men’s Department, Prayer and Bible Band, Sunshine Band, Nurse’s unit, Usher Board, and Maintenance Department. The choir grew under the leadership of Missionary Geraldine Hill and was invited to sing at revivals and programs throughout the Albemarle area. In 2009, Dr. Wiggins became ill and was unable to carry on as pastor of Soul Chain Ministries C.O.G.I.C. On January 18, 2010, Elder Wilbert Tatem was appointed as the pastor. The Lord added to the church and we were able to pay off the mortgage in less than the time allotted. We held a mortgage burning ceremony on Sunday, October 24, 2010. Mother Norman served faithfully until her health declined in 2018. She was then appointed to the status of Church Mother Emeritus. In 2018, Mother Lillian Satterfield was then appointed church mother of Soul Chain Ministries. Throughout the years, we have lost many of the faithful members of the church who worked so tirelessly in the vineyard. Their work will certainly not be forgotten.

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METROLINA CHRISTIAN CENTER Church Of God In Christ Executive Director, Jimmy H. Bention, Sr. PASTOR

Metrolina Christian Center COGIC (MCC COGIC) was Founded in 1994. The Lord put it on the heart of Executive Director Bention, Sr. to start this Church in his home at Silver Stone Apartments on Tom Hunter Road in Charlotte, North Carolina. He is their only Pastor. Metrolina Christian Center COGIC had many locations. Starting in the Apartment, then the Recreation Room at Silver Stone. In 1995, the Bention’s moved to 137 Sleepy Hollow Road on the other side of Charlotte and MCC COGIC moved right with them. It was there where growth began and one of the highlights was the Metrolina Mass Choir. Oh, how they could sing. In 1997, The Lord put it on Executive Directors Bention, Sr. heart to move the Church to Monroe, NC (its present location). During that time in Monroe, Pastor Bention, Sr. took a Pastoral assignment from Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard to Gastonia, NC. This was a huge jump with a major Church. That assignment was short lived when The Lord burden Pastor Bention, Sr. to get back to Monroe, NC. Our Pastor has served many places. Even today, he is also the Pastor of Temple Church Of God In Christ in Rockingham, NC. During his time as Pastor of MCC COGIC, he has been selected by Bishop Woolard to start the Greater North Carolina Men’s Department in 2002. He has also been selected to serve on the Executive Committee of the Church Of God In Christ Men Perfecting Men Department. Life as Pastor of MCC COGIC has been a blessing. First Lady Bention has faithfully been by his side, as well as all their children over time. Their Son John (Wife Eniko), Daughters Latoya and Kathryn (Katie) are yet faithful Members of the Church. Our First Lady has published many books and articles during her time here at Metrolina. She, like Pastor Bention, Sr. has served Union County on the Park and Recreation Board. Our First Lady ended her time there as the Chair and was in place when one of the new Soccer Fields was Dedicated. John and Katie have won many awards during the Youth Convention and now AIM Convention on multiple fronts. Sister Latoya serves in many areas during her time. She, along with Sister Kathryn as worked every year during the Mission To Men Conference. Mother Gregory was not only the Church Mother, but also served on the District Level of E. C. Cannon Memorial District under the Leadership of Superintendent, Bishop Tommie A. Murphy.

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Metrolina Christian Center COGIC has always been in place with its service to the District, Jurisdiction and National Work. Many have come and left over the years, but MCC COGIC has remained faithful over time. We are so grateful for Bishop Woolard accepting us into the Jurisdiction back in 1994. Metrolina Christian Center COGIC has been a beacon of light and inspiration to the community. Pastor Bention, Sr. served faithfully at Monroe High School (MHS) as President of the PTSO, Head Coach of the MHS Cross Country Team and Assistant Coach to the Boy’s & Girl’s Track Team. This service at MHS lends itself to personal ministry to school staffers and students through Metrolina. Many were counselled, prayed for, married and some even were buried by Pastor Bention, Sr., whom is affectionally known as, “Rev.” Currently, Metrolina Christian Center COGIC is still serving strong in the community through Pastor Bention, Sr. as a Chaplain of the Monroe Police Department and as a member of the Union County School Board. His service continues as a Member in good standing with the Union County Branch of the NAACP, where he serves as 2nd Vice President and Housing Chair.

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The Lord wanted Elder Ingram to establish a house for His worship and praise. God delivered into his hands, a House by the side of the road. He was a humble man, who was being lead and enabled by the Holy Spirit to recognize the hand of God. Elder Ingram said Yes Lord! Elder Ingram quoted Psalm 40:1, “I waited patiently for the Lord and he inclined unto me and heard my cry.” On March 24, 1996, the doors of New Hope Church of God in Christ opened, and God gave him 14 members to begin working in the vineyard. This is God’s house, and our Motto is “If Nobody Loves You, New Hope Loves You.” It is from these humble beginnings, that God continues to bless this house. On February 9, 2003, God took Pastor Leonard Ingram home to be with the Lord. On the final day of his life, our founder Pastor Leonard Ingram chose as his 11 am sermon, “The Formula to Survive.” He spoke from Psalm 61, “When my heart is overwhelmed lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” It was only a few hours later when he went on to be with the Lord. Evangelist Thelma Ingram answered the call of God and picked up the Pastor Thelma Ingram mantel left by her husband and she is Pastor Leonard Ingram carrying on the work that he established by the mercy of God. Pastor Thelma Ingram enlisted the help of Evangelist Mattie Jones to help her carry the burden of the Pastorate. God has been good to New Hope Church of God in Christ. By God’s grace, New Hope will continue to be a House of God by the side of the road, working and teaching for the Glory of God. For we know that one plants, another waters, but it is God that gives the increase. Therefore, it is by his power that we can survive today. On December 20, 2016, the Lord took the Assistant Pastor Dr. Mattie L. Jones home to be with Him. Dr. Jones will be missed, but God never makes a mistake. The Lord has blessed New Hope to pick up the mantel left by Dr. Jones who was a vital part of New Hope Church and she is greatly missed. The Lord has recently helped New Hope Church to acquire its Mother Katherine Hyde, current property; we give thanks to God for sending the help. Church Mother

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New Mount Zion COGIC Founded 1999

LORD!

Camden, NC

Elder Glenn Sawyer was a faithful and dedicated member of the Eastern Star Church of God in Christ in Elizabeth City, North Carolina for over 25 years. He was a man of few words with a quiet and humble spirit. It was at the “Star” that he heard the “Call” of God to Pastor. It was an unction that he had rejected several times before. He began realizing that his successes in life would take place only after his obedience to God. Yet, the young preacher would not come to the forefront and acknowledge his call. God held the destiny of this preacher in His hand. His business began suffering loss, and after falling from the roof twice, he realized he was fighting a losing battle and said YES,

December 1998, Elder Sawyer shared with his parents, siblings and other family members, the vision God had given him regarding starting a church. They prayed for him and gave him an offering to help with the church. Pastor Sawyer began quietly searching for a building for worship. He was led back to his roots in the small rural-like township of Camden, North Carolina. On January 15, 1999, he signed the lease for a small building on Highway 343. He remodeled Pastor Glenn & and made preparation to establish the church he would pastor. God First Lady Sandra Sawyer revealed the name “Mt. Zion”, from the scripture Psalm 125:1; “They that trust in the Lord shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth for ever.” Thus, the first Church of God In Christ church was established in Camden. Its motto, “GOD FIRST!” would be the motivation behind all work that would take place at Mt. Zion. He would preach the gospel and trust God to add to the church such as should be saved. God has done just that! On March 31, 1999, Elder Sawyer was installed as Pastor by Bishop LeRoy Jackson Woolard, Prelate of Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction with 25 members. The church became a part of the Windsor District. The church’s first secretary was Sister Karen Saunders McPherson. The finance committee consisted of Deacon Connie Sawyer, Sr, Sister Fecia McKenna, and Deacon Connie Sawyer, Jr. The ushers were First Lady Sandra Sawyer and Sister Marietta Downing. The Youth Leader was Sister Shirley M. Sawyer. The choir directress was Sister Kimberly Sawyer Blount with Missionary Bonnie Sawyer leading the musicians. The first Sunday morning worship service was held Easter Sunday, April 4, 1999.

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Pastor Sawyer follows the vision given to him by God, by standing on the truth of the Word, and holding fast to the principles of holiness. The church began to grow. The first church mother was Mother Inez Moore. The first chairman of the Deacon Board was Deacon Benjamin Williams. As the church began to grow, Pastor Sawyer began to search for property to build a new place of worship. He did not have to look far. At the corner was prime property that many people wanted to obtain. It was a corner lot near the highway. God favored Pastor Sawyer and Mt. Zion church to acquire the property. January 12, 2003, Pastor Sawyer and the church broke ground for the new edifice. When the contractors came to pour the foundation, Pastor Sawyer buried the Bible, the Vision Book, and a bottle of oil leading to the entrance of the building. He stated the church was built upon the Word of God, the vision God gave him, and the anointing of God’s Spirit. On October 23, 2004, he and the saints at Mt. Zion marched from the old church to their new edifice, with Pastor Sawyer carrying the Bible that sits on the communion table, representing the anointing of God that was in the old building being carried over into the new building. His congregational membership has grown from its foundation days from 25 to over 300 members. While Godly proud, he believes and teaches that all praise and glory is to God who has given him the Victory. Pastor Sawyer believes that every person born into the Kingdom has distinct purpose. God gives the believer the ability, capability, capacity, and competence to perform. No organization can get any bigger than the capacity of its leader to manage. The hinderance to its growth is not the needs of the people because they are always there. It is not the denomination or location. It is the planning, leadership, and organization. If the church is going to be effective in Christ, it needs to pay attention to these management strategies. Therefore, to meet the needs of the total man, Mt. Zion has over 40 auxiliaries, departments, and committees. He seeks God daily and has accomplished new horizons in and for ministry. The church operated for ten years the Tiny Tots Day Care and serves the community and the adjoining county each week through the Food Pantry. The Lord favored Pastor Sawyer and the church to acquire prime property from the county, thus launching our Here We Grow Again Campaign, to build a Family Life Center that will further serve the community.

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Founded 2001

Pastor Grace & Deacon James Hinton

Pastor Grace Davis Hinton and her husband Deacon James Andrew Hinton founded Greater Faith & Love Ministry, Inc. Pastor Grace Hinton’s ordination service was held at Triumph Deliverance Church, 1607 Gillespie Street, Fayetteville, N.C. on September 25, 2001 by Bishop Maurice Johnson. The church fellowshipped with Triumph Deliverance for several months before moving to Fayetteville Christian Center for several years before moving to 1814 Sapona Road, Fayetteville. In 2004 Pastor Hinton united the church with Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction Church of God in Christ. She returned to her roots and was received by Bishop Woolard and the saints.

Pastor Grace Davis Hinton had an entrepreneur spirit in which her first Pastor Elder W.M. Smith nourished and encouraged her soul through the word of God. As a teenager she became a bold soldier for Christ selling flowers and ministering to people on the street corners and various other places. After her first pastor transitioned to heaven, Superintendent Thomas C. Leak continued to pastor her for over 40 years. Greater Faith & Love Ministry, Inc was co-pastored by Pastor Sybil Hinton from 2016-2018. On June 22, 2018 Pastor Grace Hinton transitioned to heaven after which her daughter, Pastor Sybil Denise Hinton became the full-time pastor. Pastor Sybil Hinton is a graduate of North Carolina Central University with a Bachelor of Arts (Magna Cum Laude) in Political Science. She also works as a healthcare administrator and owns various other businesses. Her first priority is to ministry. Church accomplishments in the community were establishing and operating a home for veterans after incarceration and finding opportunities for employment and housing. She is also operating a boarding house for persons with HIV/AIDS.

Pastor Sybil Hinton

CHURCH MOTTO: “Teaching everyday living and prosperity thru the Word of God.”

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NEW BEGINNING

Church of God in Christ

In 2001, New Beginning Church of God in Christ was founded by Elder William Lewis Whitfield and First Lady Loretta Whitfield, initially named the New Beginning Holiness Church. The church was located on Henderson Street in Hamlet, North Carolina. After a short time on Henderson Street, the church moved to highway 401 in Bennettsville, South Carolina and subsequently to highway 38 North in Bennettsville South Carolina. The dedication of the of the newly established church occured in December 2001. In May of the following year, New Beginning Holiness Church was officially licensed and welcomed as a member of the Church of God in Christ. As a newly recognized church in COGIC, the church was renamed to New Beginning Church of God in Christ. In 2017, after much prayer and fasting, God blessed us with our current church home at 404-a Cheraw Street, Bennettsville South Carolina 29512.

Elder William Lewis Whitfield First Lady Loretta Whitfield

Founded 2001 Bennettsville, South Carolina 147

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CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST “THE PLACE OF GOD’S PROVISION!” Providence Church of God In Christ, Inc. was founded as a Mission Church on Sunday, June 11, 2006. The Pastor, Marshall Newsome, was led of the Lord to find the church after having served at Wells Memorial Church of God In Christ since December 1993. He arrived at Wells Memorial as a Minister, was later ordained in August 1996 as an Elder, and served as Director of Youth Ministries in the years prior to his departure. The first church service was held inside Ark of Safety Preschool located at 1411 Montlieu Avenue, High Point, North Carolina. For the first 2 years, the church consisted of Pastor Marshall Newsome, his wife Angela, their children Christopher & Benjamin, the First Lady’s parentsLuicoe (Senior Deacon) & Clarice Wilson (Church Mother), and Brother Ron Tyson. Shortly thereafter, the Lord then began to add to the church with multiple families which necessitated relocation to a larger space. This larger space was found at the High Point Realtor’s Association located at 1830 Eastchester Drive, High Point, NC. Pastor Marshall & First Lady Angela Newsome

In June 2009, Providence changed from a Mission to full-fledged Church in an Installation Service officiated by Jurisdictional Prelate, Bishop LeRoy Jackson Woolard. It was at that time that Providence joined the Winston-Salem District under the leadership of the recently appointed Superintendent, Dr. Herman G. Platt where it remains to the present day.

Deacon Luicoe & Mother Clarice Wilson

Providence was again led of the Lord to a 3rd location, 1210 Montlieu Avenue, High Point, North Carolina; just 2 blocks from its original place of worship. The Church continues to see growth in both quality & quantity as the Lord extends His grace & mercy.

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Throughout the years of Providence’s existence, the Lord has blessed the church with an endearing cadre of supporting fellow yoke-bearers in the gospel which have included, but is not limited to: Minister Christine Fairley, Evangelist Missionary Mary Freeman, Elder Vidal Randolph, Evangelist Missionary Kelly Johnson, Minister Kenny Ledwell, Evangelist Missionary Cecilia Patterson, Elder Reginald Harris, Elder Carnell Lyles, Aspiring Missionary Katrina McNeil, & Elder Peter Julien. These and others have helped Pastor Newsome & Providence Church propagate the gospel throughout the community and the world. To God be all the glory!

CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST “THE PLACE OF GOD’S PROVISION!”

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New Harvest

Church of God in Christ Pastor Wayne Johnson First Lady Deattria Johnson New Harvest Church had its beginnings from the previous Hairston Cathedral of Deliverance COGIC under the leadership of Pastor J.D. Hairston. Just as the ministry began to flourish, Pastor Hairston was called to his reward. After Pastor Hairston’s death, Superintendent Samuel Payne became the pastor of Hairston Cathedral “Come over here, where the and the superintendent of the EC Cannon District until about 2004. table is spread and he feast

of the Lord is going on.” Superintendent Payne had several pastors serve at the church; but after much time and prayer, Pastor Tommie Murphy was elevated to district superintendent and he took on the work as the pastor of Hairston Cathedral COGIC. While serving as pastor, the church went through some changes that led to the renaming of the church to New Harvest COGIC. This church has always had a faithful few that continues to know that God had not forgotten them. In 2009, God lead Supt. Murphy to recommend Minister Wayne Johnson to become the pastor of New Harvest Community COGIC. After many nights of prayer and supplication, Pastor Johnson followed the leading of the Lord and took on full responsibility of the New Harvest Ministry. The church continues in the EC Cannon District where the superintendent is Bishop Tommie A Murphy.

Under the leadership of Pastor Johnson, the New Harvest Church has serviced as an anchor for the Church of God in Christ in the city of Gastonia. New Harvest is known for feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and comforting the widows and orphans. New Harvest has serviced as a family to those without a family. New Harvest motto is “Come over here, where the table is spread, and the feast of the Lord is going on”. New Harvest COGIC is a place that spreads God’s love, teaches God’s peace, and is a beacon of light in a dark world. 151

House of Another Chance Church of God in Christ

Elder Sherman Tate, Pastor Evangelist Sandra A. Tate, First Lady In November 2006, the Lord spoke through the Holy Spirit to Elder Sherman Tate to plant a ministry in Dunn, NC. Elder Tate purchased a home on 607 Elm Street to start his ministry. His first members were his wife Evangelist Sandra and daughter Charisma. Churches donated a podium, microphones and stands, chairs, and other items to begin the ministry, which was truly a blessing. Elder Tate also had a wall knocked out to expand the sanctuary. The services started with a Tuesday night Bible Study. A Bishop came by to say that the city would not allow us to have a church in a house, but we continued to trust God and walked by faith, because many churches were started in houses through Bible Studies and Prayer Meetings. Slowly people of all walks of life came and would later join. Elder Tate would rent a building up the street, which was the Woodman of the World Building to hold larger services and later the building became open for purchase. Elder Tate prayed about purchasing the building, but the Lord spoke and said wait on the purchase. In the process, many inquired in purchasing the building, but none of their bids went through.

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The Lord held the building for two years for House of Another Chance. The Lord spoke through Evangelist Tate in prayer to tell Pastor Tate what to present for the bid on the Woodman of the World Building. Pastor Tate presented the bid and it was accepted. When we wait on the Lord; He will Work All Things Together for Our Good according to His riches and glory in Christ Jesus. House of Another Chance COGIC moved into its new sanctuary in August 2010. The same Bishop took over the house and held his services. He has since deceased, but his wife continues his work of ministry in the house on today. Some have since left the ministry, but the assigned saints have withheld the storm and are still there working strong. House Of Another Chance Church COGIC presently located at 500 East Pope Road, Dunn. N.C.

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TRIAD MINISTRIES CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST DR. ERIC J. GREAUX, SR., PASTOR FIRST LADY LORING “MIMI” GREAUX Increasingly distressed by the shift from biblical preaching of Jesus Christ the crucified Savior, the Resurrected Conqueror, and the soon Returning King to self-help, financial prosperity, and feel-good messages, Eric Greaux heeded God’s calling and established Triad Ministries Church October 2012. August 2013, Eric exercised his commitment to ecclesiastical accountability and transitioned the church from Triad Ministries Church to Triad Ministries Church of God in Christ. After four years of faithful service to the Winston Salem District and North Carolina Greater Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ, Prelate, Bishop Leroy Jackson Woolard licensed Eric Greaux to office of Pastor April 18, 2017. Triad Ministries Church of God in Christ, located in Kernersville, NC, is characterized by the simple, contextually sound and biblically preached Word of God that exalts the Savior, evangelizes sinners and equips saints of God for active Christian service.

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True Light Tabernacle Chruch of God in Christ

Elder Mark Massey heard the word of the Lord, saying to him “I have anointed you to preach the gospel to the poor, to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives" (Luke; 4.18-19). Elder Mark D. Massey and First Lady Joyce Courts-Massey stepped out on faith and planted the True Light Tabernacle of Deliverance Church of God in Christ, in June of 2013 on 1321 South Tryon Street. They diligently sought out great leadership and found Superintendent Tommie Murphy and the E.C. Cannon District. God has allowed Elder Mark D. Massey and the True Light Ministry to acquire property in Mt. Holly, North Carolina, an area where God has anointed him to preach and teach the infallible truth of the gospel. Mother Gerald Williams

ELDER MARK MASSEY, PASTOR JOYCE COURTS-MASSEY, FIRST LADY

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CHURCHES BIRTHED OUT OF THE GREATER NORTH CAROLINA JURISDICTION Gospel Lighthouse Sandford Apostle Reginald White Evangel Fellowship Greensboro Bishop Otis Lockett, Sr. Bethany Fellowship Greensboro Elder Reginald Holiday Victory Temple Ministries Fuquay Varina Elder Djuan Rich Whosoever Will Edenton Elder Jerald Perry. Christian Fellowship Raleigh Elder C.E. Anderson, Jr. Harrison Chapel Raleigh Elder Ernest Thompson. Manasseh COGIC Wendell Elder Emmitt Turner, Jr. Christ Temple Mocksville Elder James Johnson Miracle Temple High Point Bishop Oliver Quick Faith Temple Wilmington Elder Johnny Cureton Redemption Center Wilson Elder Donald Whitley Powerhouse Nashville Elder Charlie Frank Refreshing Springs Fayetteville Elder Mario Caesar Victorious Praise Durham Pastor Wil Nicholas Laborers for Christ Murfreesboro Elder Sam Jenkins Salt of the Earth Burlington Elder Wil Cooper Liberty Temple Leggett Elder Preston Warren New Hope Raeford Elder Preston Ross New Life Henderson Elder Myron Henderon Word of Faith Tarboro Elder James Horton Greater Christ Temple Raleigh Elder Arsie Eaton Full Gospel Hoffman Supt. James Turner/Supt. Tommy Quick New Hope Scotland Neck Supt. Alexander Dixon Seed of Abraham Burgaw Elder Alexander Jacobs Word Proclaim Greenville Supt. Charles Frank Asheboro Asheboro Supt. James Tuner/Elder Best Holy House of Prayer Teachey Elder Thomas Keith East End Ahoskie Elder James Scott Macedonia Windsor Elder Elmer Cooper, Sr. Mt. Calvary Waynesville Elder J. Simmons/Elder Alton Shade Mt. Zion Lumberton Supt. E. C. Cannon/Elder J. E. Moore Elder James Killens Upper Room Raleigh Supt. James Henry Turner/ Bishop Patrick L. Wooden

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Hebrews 12:14 “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” In the book entitled: Sanctified Revolution: The Church of God in Christ, Dr. Ovell Hamilton writes: “Holiness is a lifestyle that was espoused by Christians in the mid-1800s. Holiness living among Christians was a lifestyle that advocated the non-participation in or avoidance of immoral actions of the private sphere: fornication, lying, adultery, drinking alcohol, smoking, going to secular clubs, and other activities that were deemed unbecoming of Holiness.” A lifestyle of holiness during the earlier years in the Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction manifested because of numerous sacrifices by the saints. Pioneers were disfranchised from their homes, families, and churches. In some cases, believers who professed holiness were put out of their home churches and labeled as “holy rollers” because they chose to emulate the lifestyle of those who worshipped in the “sanctified” church. Preachers proclaimed the gospel with power and admonished sinners to get saved. Evangelists often quoted Hebrews 12:14 and ended their sermons with a major theme from the pulpit: “It’s holiness or hell.” According to some senior pastors in COGIC, sanctification is a process, and it is the will of God. A sanctified life is a lifestyle that exemplifies the character of Christ. One characteristic of Christ is He is holy. These bold ambassadors for Christ often used the following scriptures to support their teachings, and they urged new converts to receive their calling to a sanctified life. “This is the will of God, even your sanctification.” (I Thess. 4:3) “He has chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love.” (Ephesians 1:4) “As He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation.” (I Peter 1:15) The Lord has chosen us and bought us with the precious blood of Jesus. “Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which ye have of God, and ye are not your own.” As servants of Christ, we are to glorify God in our bodies.” (I Cor. 6:19-20) As believers, our souls have been redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus Christ. We belong to the Loving Father, and He has stamped us with the Seal of the Holy Spirit. As forementioned, we belong to a Holy God. He is sacred and dwells within the hearts of believers. As we partake of Him, embrace His moral character, emulate His likeness, and through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, we can live a sanctified and holy lifestyle. Finally, one of the favorite scriptures of some of the senior pioneers [of what?] was Isaiah 35:8, “And a highway shall be there, and way, and it shall be called The Way of Holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it, but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.” The way of holiness is a wonderful lifestyle, and those who are redeemed and ransomed will enjoy the benefits of living an empowered life. As our forefathers embraced holiness, learned to walk in it, and strived to live consecrated lives, we too are admonished “to present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is our reasonable service.”

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Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction 100th Anniversary Commemorative Book

Articles inside

House of Another Chance

Faith Tabernacle

New Beginning

Providence

Greater Faith and Love Ministry

Deliverance Temple

New Mount Zion

Faith Harvest

New Hope

Soul Chain

Metrolina Christian Center

God’s Tabernacle

Holy Assembly

New Covenant Ministries

House of Prayer

Shiloh Holiness

Bibleway

Lighthouse

Holy Mission

Temple of Prayer

Holy Temple

People’s Faith

Greater Faith Deliverance Center

Revival Temple

New Life Deliverance Center

Prayer and Faith Temple

Moore Memorial

New Bethel

Refreshing Center

Hoggard’s Temple

Eastern Star

Greater Harvest Fellowship

Garden of Eden

Rescue Temple #1

New Horizon

Sycamore Temple

Williams Memorial

Wells Chapel

St. Paul (Rocky Mount

Pemberton Temple

Spruill Temple

River of Life

Wells Memorial

Temple Church

New Saints Delight

Explanation of Logo

Davenport Temple

History of Greater North Carolina Jurisdiction

Refreshing Wells

Elder J.C. Griffin

Father Aaron Bazemore

Pentecostal Temple

Elder A.B. Malone