“Deliverance” is the word that resonates here at Rugby Deliverance Tabernacle. It is more than just a name. It embodies the church’s mission. We stand before a building with a rich history. It began as the Rugby Congregational Church in 1907.
Local residents started meeting in homes for weekly worship. Their numbers grew. They moved to a local store at 5010 Church Avenue. Later they moved to larger space at 4913 Church Avenue.
The society formally incorporated on February 14 1913. It was then known as Rugby Congregational Church. Rev. R.E. Rutherford became their first pastor. The society bought land at Snyder Avenue and East 49th Street. The cornerstone for this building was laid on November 20 1927. The completed church was dedicated on June 10 1928.
A significant change occurred on January 11 2003. The church’s name changed to Rugby Deliverance Tabernacle. This reflected its vision and service. Archbishop Dr. Sidley R. Mullings led this transformation.
Archbishop Dr. Sidley R. Mullings became pastor in 1987. His official installation was on January 27 1992. Under his leadership, the church experienced tremendous growth. Its impact expanded locally and globally.
The Rugby Deliverance Tabernacle plays a vital role. It helps the homeless and needy in the community. It also has a global mission. This mission supports the needy in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and South America. Archbishop Mullings oversees churches in several countries. These include the United States, the Philippines, India, Ghana, South Africa, and various Caribbean nations.
Inside Rugby Deliverance Tabernacle, music fills the air. Geo. Kilgen & Son of St. Louis built the organ in 1934. It is a “Petit Ensemble” model with four ranks of pipes. Kilgen installed the organ behind the chancel. The detached two-manual console now sits on the main floor.
The Rugby Deliverance Tabernacle stands as a testament. It shows faith, community, and global outreach intertwine. The church continues to evolve. It remains committed to serving others and spreading its message of hope. It celebrates the past, transforms the present and impacts the future.