1. The Beginning

    1976-1977

    The first two Sabbath services were held at the home of brother and sister Boyd, in October of 1976. Fifeteen (15) members comprised the first congregation.

    A small company worshiped from late the 1976 until early 1977 in the basement of a Baptist church across from the Miami Edison Senior High School, located on NW 62nd Street, Miami.

    The first member to be baptized was sis. Ruby Williams. Her baptism took place during camp meeting at Forest Lake Academy in Orlando in 1977.

    Due to extensive growth in membership, the church services were relocated from the basement of Miami Edison Senior High to the Auditorium of Greater Miami Academy, which was then located in Overtown, Miami.

    church groundbreaking
  2. Building the Sanctuary

    1978-1986

    In mid 1978 the church’s present location, housing only the “small chapel” was rented from the Lutheran/Anglican congregation and used for worship until it was purchased in 1982 along with three and a half acres of land at the cost of $130,000.00.

    The Child Development Center was opened in 1979.

    In 1980, Sis. Beatrice Williams, a hard working foundation member was the first member to be funeralized.

    Delroy and Janet Myrie were the first couple united in marriage in September, 1982.

    The Sanctuary was dedicated in 1986.

    church construction
  3. Promoting Education

    1992-1993

    In 1992, North American Division’s first Men’s Ministry formed lead by Brother Eric Allen. In 1993, five (5) acres of land adjoining the sanctuary complex was purchased for $165,000.00. William A. Kirlew Junior Academy now sits on this site. The school was opened in 1992.

    school groundbreaking