“Brooks Church continues to serve as a beacon,” that’s what they say. But what does it mean? I mean, really mean? Let’s step back in time right here at Brooks United Methodist Church. This church has a rich history. It reflects faith and community spirit.
Brooks United Methodist Church started as The Meeting House in 1846. Sewell Waters donated the land. Mr. Daniel Morgan led services. Imagine this small meeting house. It stood as a beacon of hope for early worshippers. Tragedy struck when fire destroyed The Meeting House. It was rebuilt. It was renamed Island Creek Church. Over time, it evolved into Brooks United Methodist Church.
In the 1800s, Brooks United Methodist Church served two purposes. It was both a school and a church. The congregation grew. It reached about two hundred members. The original building became too small. A new, larger structure was needed.
In 1881, under Rev. T.H. Adams, construction began on a new building. Disaster struck again. The old structure burned down before much progress was made. The congregation persevered. They met in other locations. The new church was completed. It was named Island Creek Church again. Thomas Brown, Daniel Rawlings, Harry Parker, Basil Kent, and Albert Gantt were on the building committee.
In 1908, Rev. Abraham Jenkins modernized the church. It was renamed Brooks Church. This honored Mr. John I. Brooks. He was a local preacher and undertaker. His contributions were significant to the community. The church continued to grow.
In 1959, under Rev. Sherman Mason, plans for a new church structure emerged. Rev. Joseph H. Collins, Rev. Hilton Parker, and G. Franklin Pettigrew brought these plans to life. The new church was finished in 1968. It was dedicated that December. The mortgage was burned. A new parsonage was built in 1980 under Rev. Joseph Collins.
In 1994, Rev. Aniachi C. Belu-John became the pastor. In 2000, Rev. John D. Snowden, Jr. arrived. In 2004, Rev. Kay F. Albury became the first female pastor. She started the “Hour of Power” worship service. She also established the Multi-media Ministry. The male choir and Methodist Men organizations were revived.
In 2006, Rev. Kay F. Albury led a groundbreaking service. This was for an addition to the church. Rev. Dr. Jason L. Robinson became the pastor in 2009. The church experienced significant growth under his leadership. Technological advancements were made. These helped spread their message further.
Under Pastor Robinson, the church modernized its facilities. The parking lot was paved. The kitchen was renovated. New signage was installed. In 2010, Brooks launched its “Kingdom Agenda.” The goal was to eliminate debt in 18 months. They paid it off in 10 months. The mortgage was burned in May 2012.
Under Pastor Robinson’s leadership, the church has seen great progress. Many new members have joined. A thriving children’s church was established named “K.I.D.S. in Divine Study”.
Brooks uses technology to spread God’s word. They offer online worship and on-demand streaming. They reach viewers in over 15 countries monthly.
Brooks United Methodist Church has always been a pillar of the community. Generations of families have worshipped here. The diverse congregation shares God’s love. The church supports the community through various ministries. These focus on spiritual nourishment, outreach, and leadership.
In 2016, Brooks celebrated its first service in a new church building. God has called them to a high place of worship. They are making disciples for Christ. They are impacting lives through worship. Brooks Church continues to share the good news of God’s love through Jesus Christ.
Today, as we stand here, remember the journey of Brooks United Methodist Church. It is a story of faith, resilience, and community. It is still a “Work Zone” for the Lord. As they say here: “The Best is Yet to Come.”