06/08/2026
This picture is more than just a picture.
It represents years of prayer, faith, sacrifice, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the vision God revealed long before we could see it with our natural eyes. It tells the story of leaders who trusted God through every season and remained faithful to the assignment.
Thank you, Pastor Emeritus Rev. James C. Coates, for 31 years as senior pastor and 17 years as pastor emeritus for your faithful leadership and service. Thank you for laying a foundation rooted in faith, excellence, and a love for God’s people. Because of your obedience and sacrifice, generations have been impacted and a legacy has been established that continues to bear fruit today.
Thank you, Pastor Rodney R. Payne, for continuing to trust God with the vision. Thank you for leading with faith, courage, and conviction. Thank you for challenging us to go beyond what is comfortable, to serve beyond the walls, and to believe that ministry can transform an entire city.
Praise Beyond the Walls is a reflection of what happens when one generation faithfully lays the foundation and another faithfully builds upon it. What we witnessed this week did not happen overnight. It is the result of years of prayer, preparation, perseverance, and obedience to God’s call.
We are grateful for the shoulders we stand on and the leadership that continues to guide us forward. Thank you, Pastor Coates and Pastor Payne, for your faithfulness to God, His people, and the vision He entrusted to you.
