Those few faithful members soon moved by horse and wagon from the west side to a storefront two doors from the northeast corner of Donaldson and Grant Avenues.  In the same year, 1922, auxiliaries were organized - the Sunday Church School, Missionary Society, BYPU, and the Vocal Singing Choir, organized by Hezekiah H. Smith, brother of the founder.  Mrs. Della Smith Williams, daughter of the founder, served as the first secretary of the church.
 
These were the years of struggle - the birth and early growth of a great church.  God sent others to help the cause, namely, Deacons Bob Simmons and James Milner, brothers Joseph Johnson and Amos Johnson, and the Adams family.  Reverend Smith's health began to fail.  He left Columbus and moved to Youngstown, Ohio.
 
In 1924 the Lord sent Reverend R. T. Gleaves to the fold to shepherd the sheep.  Knowing that God is in all good works, the small congregation soon outgrew the small place of worship and secured a larger building on the southwest corner of Donaldson and Grant Avenues, 349 Donaldson Street.  It was at this site that the fruits of God's promise began to unfold.  Auxiliaries and choirs were organized.  Deacons and Trustees were added.  It wasn't long before the last note on the church was paid.
 
With his farsightedness, Reverend Gleaves envisioned a more suitable church home in the same community.  On the second Sunday in September of 1952, the church marched to 442 Donaldson Street where they worshipped for 101/2 years.  These were hard working but pleasant and memorable years.  They showed much progress and we enjoyed a beautiful Christian fellowship.  On May 19, 1963, history repeated itself.  On this date the church formed a motorcade from 442 Donaldson Street and traveled to 29 South Eureka Avenue, the new location.
< Previous >  < Next >  < Home >