On a damp December night in 1993 a small group gathered. They sought solace and spiritual guidance. This was the humble beginning of the Shekinah Tabernacle Baptist Church. Twenty-four souls met at Sister Sarah Fields’ home. Their dedication shone brightly despite life’s challenges. Pastor A.C. Stapleton offered support and counsel. They sang prayed and shared testimonies. A discussion followed about forming a church. Pastor Stapleton suggested continued prayer. They adopted “Joy Joy We Still Have Joy” as their theme song. Two weeks later Pastor Stapleton revealed a name from God: Shekinah. It means the visible sign of God’s presence. Shekinah Tabernacle Baptist Church was born.
The church quickly outgrew private homes. Their first service was at Singing Hills Chapel. On March 30 1994 the Shekinah Tabernacle Baptist Church was officially organized. This occurred at Concord Missionary Baptist Church. Rev E.K. Bailey pastored that church. The congregation then voted in Pastor A.C. Stapleton as their leader. Their first Easter Sunday service was at Singing Hills Chapel. A Christian counseling meeting followed soon after. Steve Smith became the first member.
In May 1994 Pastor Stapleton found a building at 2109 S Beckley. An 18-month lease with an option to buy was signed. Their first service at that location was on June 1 1994. Sister Marilyn Freeman joined the church there. They worked hard to clean the building. Their first Sunday service at the Beckley location was June 5 1994. That day they held their first baptismal service. The Shekinah Tabernacle Baptist Church continued to grow and thrive. It became a beacon of hope and faith in the community. Its story is a testament to the power of prayer dedication and unwavering belief.