In 1941 five members founded Tried Stone Fire Baptized Holiness Church. Bishop Henry Williams his wife Sister Violet Williams Mother Florence Dickenson Brother and Sister Harry Dickenson and Brother Alonzo Pearson were those pioneers. They found a building at 304 Q Street NW Washington DC. The Lord’s words “And behold I set before thee an open door and no man can shut it” inspired them. Tried Stone purchased the building in 1944.
Tried Stone Fire Baptized Holiness Church joined the Bible Way Church organization in 1963. Bishop Williams served in various roles including District Elder. Membership boomed in the 1960s. The church needed more space. In 1971 they acquired a former Jewish Synagogue at 417 9th Street SE.
Bishop Williams hosted live radio broadcasts for twenty years. Millions listened across the US and in seventeen other countries. He was known as the “Let My Soul Live Preacher”. His legacy of faith and service endures. Bishop Williams passed away in 1988. His family upheld his values. He fought a good fight. His wisdom and counsel remain influential.
After Bishop Williams’ passing the church had several interim pastors. Elder Leroy Cousar served until 1994. Then Elder Charles Nash took over until 1996. Bishop Floyd E Nelson followed from 1996 to 1997. Elder Jerome Moore served from 1997 to 1998. Elder James A Barley became the pastor in 2000. He remains committed to spreading God’s word.
Tried Stone Fire Baptized Holiness Church is a vibrant and growing congregation. It focuses on strengthening physical and spiritual relationships with the Lord. They believe in the Bible’s infallibility Jesus’ divinity and the importance of water baptism and the Holy Ghost for salvation. They believe in divine healing and the sanctifying power of the Holy Ghost. Tried Stone continues its mission to be a refuge for those seeking solace. It remains a place of forgiveness love and hope. The church’s ministries serve people of all ages. Children’s Teen and Young Adult ministries exist. Women’s and Men’s fellowships support spiritual growth. The music department provides uplifting worship. Dedicated ushers ensure a warm welcome. Transportation services help those who need it. Tried Stone continues to impact its community spreading faith and service. This church offers a sanctuary of faith a beacon of hope and a testament to God’s enduring love.