From our earliest international efforts to today’s vibrant office of Black Ministries, men and women of African descent have been integral to Church of God ministries for more than a century. Some examples reveal the long-term importance of our black leaders.
In the crucible of battle, James Gooden made a life-long commitment.
“We must have materials for our youth,” Peter C. Hickson (1902-1984) wrote to Church of God General Overseer S.W. Latimer in October 1932. This passionate request revealed a heart for youth ministry along with a recognition of the importance and power of the printed word that would guide this emerging black leader throughout his inspiring ministry.
“Tuesday, Meeting here tonight…. Ruth Bishop, Joel L. Bishop, Helen Swanson, Rufus Hulbert, Father, Mother, Harold, Helga, Grace and I joined in on the Church of God tonight. Walkers, [Reinholdt] Klaudt and Helen [Swanson] stayed all night,” Clara Peterson (1905-1942) wrote in her diary on May 28, 1929.
This is the story of a radio station with a soul.
In the 1920s, the Moreland Evangelistic Party, comprised of David Ray Moreland; his wife, Mary; and their daughters Lourenna and Ollena, became one of the best know evangelistic families in the Church of God.
