02/07/2021
ATTALLA #1 A.O.H. CHURCH OF GOD
THE CHURCH HISTORY
The history of Attalla #1 Apostolic Overcoming Holy Church of God can be traced back to the mid 1930’s. The church began as a store front frame on Shorter Avenue in Attalla, Alabama. The lot was purchased by Elder Ella and Deacon Eddie Learn. It was originally called, Attalla A.O.H. Church of God. The church was brought into the national A.O.H. Church of God, Inc. organization by the late Elder Mattie Scruggs who was later assigned as Overseer. It was first pastored by the late Elder Jonathan Locust. Rev. Rosie Shack and others were members at that time. It was later pastored by Bishop W.L. James. The church was blessed under Bishop James’s leadership and was able to renovate the storefront frame to the present frame that we now enjoy. These contributions were made possible by the members of the church and community brethren.
The church was then believed to have been pastored by the late Elder Porter Foster. He was pastor for a short time and his leadership was succeeded by the late Elder Bertha Johnson. Some members who served under her leadership were: The Crumpler, Shack, Barrax, Mostella, Phillips, and Cole Families; Bro. William McKinney and others. In the mid 1960’s a spiritual storm hit the church causing everyone to leave except one member—then, Bro. William McKinney. This was a very critical time for the church. Many records were lost, and what is known about the church is from the knowledge of different saints. During this time, Elder Lovie Crowe, a true missionary, came to pastor this one member until a pastor was assigned. During the National Pentecost Meeting of 1967, God saw fit to send Elder Mary Estelle Washington from Cleveland, Ohio to pastor this one member. The church saw a “new day” under her leadership. Many saints that had left returned back to the church. Families who were members at the time included: The McKinney’s, The Potter’s, The Peterson’s, The Ragland’s, The Washington’s, The Thomas’s, The Ash’s, The Gray’s, The Robinson’s, and others. She was indeed a powerful and anointed woman of God. Pastor McKinney recalls street meetings, revivals, and times of prayer for the growth of the church. He also recalls one of her favorite songs, “Saints, don’t stop praying!” Soon, after fervent prayer, the church’s membership grew to what she lovingly called her “teaspoon full”, and the edifice was renewed inside out. The church was bricked; vestibule bathrooms were added, in addition to new windows, and a small pastor’s study.
Elder Washington was known throughout the county as a street evangelist and a soul stirring preacher. She worked faithfully and served the church until her health began to fail.
In 1985, the Lord sent the late Rev. Sis. Ida Riggins, appointed by Senior Bishop Jasper Roby, to pastor this church. Pastor Riggins was truly a hard worker and many members were added under her leadership including the following families to name a few: The Parker, Ash, Twine, Thomas, Harris, Jones and Taylor families. She served selflessly and encouraged the saints to do all we could for the sake of the ministry. Under her leadership, the fellowship hall, baptismal, church offices, the parking lot, and other projects were added. In May of 2001, the Lord saw fit to call her home.
The Lord blesses faithfulness. Upon the passing of Rev. Sis. Riggins, The Lord allowed the one member who stayed faithful to the church no matter the test, to become pastor of this church. He is yet standing today and is celebrating 20 years as pastor. Elder William McKinney has been a member of this church for over 67 years and was saved under the leadership of Bishop W.L. James. He later received the baptism of the Holy Ghost under Elder Bertha Johnson. Under his leadership, the church has been blessed to complete the main entrance extension project, a new piano and an audio system, sanctuary remodel to include new carpet and pews, and he is continuing the upkeep of this church—determined not to let this church go down. Families added under his leadership included but are not limited to: The Walker, Cylar, Ragland, Graves, Thomas, Henry, Pressley, and Boley families. We are few in number, but we are still standing and trusting in the Lord. It seems as we have been forgotten, but as in Haggai 2, we have seen this house in its first glory, and the GLORY OF GOD SHALL RETURN!!!
This church history is not complete, but it was written to the best of our knowledge and ability. During the times of no pastor, many saints came and helped out, and we praise God for them all. Through many dangers, toils, and snares we have already come. It was grace that brought us safe this far, and grace will lead us on.
