It was Mother’s Day, 1985, when we held worship services in the newly constructed building. Following the service Sherri Kearney [now Sherri Funchess] and the late Claudius Jones exchanged vows of holy matrimony. Being under the UCC (United Church of Christ) umbrella, the church adopted bylaws and was renamed. However, tradition and identify carried great importance to the pioneers who fought for recognition to maintain the name; so, the new name was Spring Street Christian United Church of Christ. Having fulfilled his promise to rebuild the church on its original site, Rev. Leon White’s commitment to racial justice and equality called him to step down as pastor.
The late Rev. Lenora Harris Sanders took the reigns in 1988 and faithfully served 15 years. Our “first-man,” the late Santee Sanders served as a Trustee and headed multiple projects to enhance the beauty and growth of the Church. They have two daughters, Cindy and Sandy. Minister Sue Gill and the late Rev. Elizabeth Thomas (daughter of Rev. W.H. Thomas, former pastor) assisted with the ministry. Rev. Sanders was concerned with maintaining the body as a temple for the dwelling of the Holy Spirit and taught a low-impact aerobics class. Under her leadership Rev. Angela Bullock came aboard as Assistant Pastor. She organized the first Spring Street Steppers, a step-team, coordinated by Tequila Lucas and Claudisha Sanders. Rev. Bullock ordained Deacons Detroit Burton, Wayne Harris, Gregory Grant, Eugene Monroe and Eunice Haywood. The Church has been blessed to have Rev. Rosa Walton to assist during Rev. Sander’s absence; she taught Bible study for a period of time. We can’t thank her enough for sharing the word whenever called upon.
After serving 15 years, Rev. Sanders and Santee planted a church in the Brentwood area of Raleigh, NC. Greater New Life Fellowship Church is now located in Wake Forest, NC. Many long-standing members moved their members and joined her congregation. In January 2004, those remaining faithful few voted Rev. Angela Bullock in as Senior Pastor–a woman of excellence and a Shepherd with compassion for the flock. Holding opposing beliefs, the Church exited from the United Church of Christ umbrella and became independent. A new constitution was adopted but the name Spring Street Christian Church was retained.
We’ve come a long way but still on our mission to teach and preach the Word of God. Re-visit soon to learn of our anniversary banquets, current ministries and leadership. See you next Sunday, our doors are open!
Spring Street Christian Church 