Promised Land Church

“A beacon of hope, built on faith.” That’s the Promised Land Church. Let’s step back to 1967. Reverend H. Ellis Turner met with members of Carron Baptist Church. He shared his decision to resign and return to evangelism. The members, including Deacon George Malone and Sister Julia Dixon, encouraged him to start a new church. Dixon offered her lodge hall. The first service of Promised Land Church was held in December 1967. Promised Land Church quickly found a new home in September 1968. They secured a property on Farragut Street. The church blossomed. The Gospel Chorus, Senior Choir, and Youth Choir filled the space with music. Growth prompted a search for a larger sanctuary, leading them to their current location at 401 Van Buren Street. The Promised Land Church faced a difficult time in 1982 with the passing of Reverend Turner. After a two-year search, Reverend Walter E. Bryant became pastor in 1984. He brought a calm demeanor and a focus on spiritual and physical growth. New ministries were established. These included a Youth Ministry, Men’s Fellowship, and a Prison Ministry. The church building expanded in 1994 with a choir loft, baptismal pool, and classrooms. The Promised Land Post, the church’s newsletter, began in 1993. Reverend Bryant’s leadership continued until 2000. A dedicated team of ministers and deacons ensured the church thrived. Reverend Thomas J. Horne became pastor in 2002. He established the Evangelistic Ministry and supported the licensing of three new ministers. Reverend Horne also led the church’s music programs until 2008. Reverend Ayize Sabater, a long-time member, served as interim pastor during the transition. He focused on spiritual leadership and administrative tasks. He revised the church’s constitution and bylaws. In 2011, Reverend Peter J. Spann became the fourth pastor of Promised Land Church. He emphasized community outreach, technology, and youth ministries. After Reverend Spann’s departure in 2014, Reverend Williams and guest preachers kept the spirit of Promised Land Church alive. In 2016, Reverend Kevin A. O’Bryant answered the call to become the church’s pastor. He established the Health Awareness Ministry and renewed the Junior Ushers’ Ministry. In 2018, Promised Land Church celebrated 50 years of ministry and introduced online giving. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, the church embraced technology. They held virtual services to reach their community and beyond. Through dedicated fundraising, the Promised Land Church has seen significant renovations. New pew cushions, fresh paint, carpeting, and updated sound equipment demonstrate the ongoing commitment to the church’s physical space. Promised Land Church continues to be a vital part of the community, collaborating with organizations like S.O.M.E and Food & Friends and providing assistance through their Feed the Hungry Ministry.