Imagine a tent, pitched not far from where the Revival Tabernacle stands today. That’s where our story begins.
Revival Tabernacle’s history is rooted in a humble tent revival. It was a time of spiritual awakening when many found faith. The community was strong. People wanted a permanent place to worship together.
The congregation wanted to establish a church. They sought divine guidance. They put a fleece before the Lord asking for a sign. The sign they sought involved securing land and funds. A miracle happened that very Sunday. People gave five thousand dollars in cash and pledges for a down payment on a property. In just one week the pledges were paid. They found their church location through a vision.
Clearing the property began while services continued in the tent. Winter arrived. Finding a suitable space for services became a challenge. Just when things seemed bleak, a man named Bro. Kelly T. Chowning stepped forward. He offered his nursery building, located three miles outside the city. The congregation was thankful. They moved trees and shrubs. They also moved machinery. They painted the interior and constructed a platform. The Nursery Building Church was heated by a small potbellied stove.
When summer returned, the tent went back up on the church property. They held services at night and worked on the church during the day. Another winter was approaching. A tobacco warehouse was rented for worship. Tragedy struck one Sunday night. A fire destroyed the warehouse. The church lost two grand pianos. All platform and pulpit furniture was lost. Also lost was the sound system and the Pastor’s banjo. Electric guitars and an accordion were destroyed.
Despite the devastation, their faith didn’t waver. They prayed. They received an answer. The congregation returned to the Chowning nursery building for the winter. The following spring, they erected the tent again and resumed church construction. By October, three walls were up. The floor was poured and the roof was complete. They held their first service under their church roof. It was a grand dedication with friends and relatives.
Revival Tabernacle was officially built in 1958. The church proudly displays a plaque commemorating this milestone.
Today, Revival Tabernacle welcomes everyone. The church is committed to working for lost souls. They pledge to walk in the light of His Word. Bishop Alvin C. Richards is the Senior Pastor. He delivers a message of faith that resonates with people from all walks of life. The Revival Tabernacle also has a prayer wall. You can submit your prayer requests online, by email or phone. The prayer team is dedicated to praying for you and your loved ones.