The Shadow
The First Church of God in Christ, Clifton Forge, celebrated its 90th church anniversary, Sunday, at 3:00 p.m. under the leadership of Elder Leon R. Taylor, Sr., pastor.
Prior to the start of the service, church members honored longtime church member, Missionary Eula Mae Roland with a drive-by parade. As she sat in front of the church, flanked by her pastor, Elder Taylor and daughter, Rosalind Coles, Clifton Forge Fire and Rescue vehicles and carloads of well-wishers passed, honked their horns, and waved. The emergency vehicles led the parade, followed by various vehicles decorated with balloons, flyers, and banners. Some stopped to hand her flowers and others shouted, “thank you” or “I love you”, as they passed.
Roland was later honored during the service and was presented with a money tree, along with other gifts, and a standing ovation, prior to her giving a warm welcome to the guests. “We are going to give her flowers while she’s here,” said Minister Kimberly Taylor, who acted as Worship Leader for the service.
Rev. David Halsey, pastor, Lapsley’s Run Baptist Church, Fincastle, and Ambassador for Christ Ministries gave the anniversary message. Halsey was accompanied by his wife, Soloist and Choir Director Billie Jo, the reunited Greater Blessings Choir, and Raymond Lewis on keyboards.
First COGIC was established in 1933 by Elder Arthur Carstarphen of Pennsylvania, with the initial services being held in the former homes of the late Leola Anderson and the late Mrs. Michie. With the help of the late Mother Theresa Key, the Michie’s house was purchased and became the home of the First COGIC, better known as the “church in the alley.” Elder Robert Spencer was the longest serving pastor prior to Elder Taylor’s arrival, serving from 1959 until 1986.
In April of 1987, Elder Taylor of Newport News, was appointed as the Pastor of the “Church in the Alley” and he and his wife, Evangelist Fannie Taylor, have served faithfully ever since. Elder Taylor spearheaded the purchase of the current edifice and Halsey designed it. In April of 1998, the new church home arrived at its present-day location at 653 Verge St.
The Taylors thank Halsey for allowing God to use him and for sharing a life-giving word. They would also like to thank all those who had a part in celebrating on the journey and ministry of spreading the gospel, reviving souls, and healing hearts; the Hospitality Committee, the Greater Blessings Choir, and those who traveled from near and far to celebrate the church’s 90 years in this community.
