how we started
New Hope Church of God, West Street
The Batesville Church of God was organized December 14, 1969, according to the church minutes. At the organizational meeting there were eleven members present, as follows Rev. James Strange (pastor), Rick Gant, Eddie David, Howard Bradley, Clarence Appleton, Sandra Gant, Mae Strange, Mae Bradley, Ida Morrow, Mattie Appleton, and Betty Berryhill. Rev. Culpepper, State Overseer of the Church of God, in the State of Mississippi was Chairman presiding over the meeting.
Although there were no written records, it is believed that the church really started by a revival with Rev. James Strange as evangelist, later as pastor. The church services were held in the parsonage downstairs with the living quarters upstairs. The church remained in the parsonage about one year until God blessed the church with a mobile chapel.
The members of the newly formed Batesville Church kept a vision of God that the church would grow and they would need a bigger place to worship. The first church service was held in the new building on January 2, 1972, which is where we worshiped until we moved to the new church. Through the years, there have been good times and difficult times. We praise God for His continued blessings on the Batesville Church of God, which has since been changed to New Hope Church of God.
Former Pastors and Their Tenure
December 1969- June 1972 James Strange
July 1972 - April 1973 Mike Errington
May 1973 - April 1974 Lonnie Hill
May 1974 - November 1974 Willie Raines
December 1974 - May 1975 James Kelly
June 1975 - June 1978 Claude Mason
August 1978 - May 1982 David Turman
June 1982 - May 1983 W. L. Jones
June 1983 - February 1984 Norman Barrentine
April 1984 - June 1987 Thomas Bordeaux
July 1987 - June 1989 Norman Barrentine
July 1989 - March 1994 Clarence Kirksey
May 1994 - August 1998 Timothy Stewart
September 1998 - March 2000 Jimmy Massey
April 2000 - August 2005 Billy Byrd
August 2005 - to Present Raymond Aven
how we started
The Legacy of Faith at New Hope Church of God
A Church on the Brink
At one time, New Hope Church of God stood on the edge of closure. Attendance had dwindled, and the absence of a minister left the sanctuary empty and silent. The sense of community that once filled the church was fading, and it seemed as though the doors might close forever.
A Woman of Unwavering Faith
But in the midst of this decline, one faithful member refused to give up—Faye Burns. Every Sunday and Wednesday, Faye made her way to the church, determined to keep the spirit of worship alive. If another person arrived, they would hold a service together. If not, Faye would kneel alone at the altar, her prayers rising from the quiet, empty sanctuary. She pleaded with God to save the church, to send a minister, and to bring people back through its doors.
Sacrifice and Commitment
Faye's commitment went beyond her prayers. When the church faced financial hardship and lacked the means to cover its expenses, she paid the bills herself. She refused to let the building fall into neglect or be forgotten. Faye reached out to anyone who might be able to help, forging a friendship with the state overseer in her efforts to save New Hope Church of God.
Prayers Through Pain
Despite her steadfast resolve, there were undoubtedly moments when Faye felt hopeless, lonely, and deserted. In those solitary moments, she poured out her heart to God, praying and crying in the quiet church. Yet she never wavered in her belief that there was still life and purpose in that old building.
God's Faithfulness Revealed
Today, the story of New Hope Church of God is one of revival and answered prayers. The church is vibrant once more, filled with members and alive with worship. Faye did not live to see the entire church completed, but she was able to visit the newly finished back area, her heart full of gratitude. She thanked God for hearing and answering her prayers, witnessing the rebirth of the church she so dearly loved.
A Lasting Legacy
Faye's legacy endures through her family, who continue to attend and support New Hope Church of God. Her daughter and son-in-law, Carolyn and Mike Windham, her grandchildren—Angie (Jeff) Campbell and Wayne (April) Williams—her great-grandchildren, Grace Campbell and Kyle (Sarah) Campbell, and her four great-great-grandchildren all remain active in the church. Their presence is a living testament to Faye's faith, perseverance, and love for her church.
Conclusion
The story of New Hope Church of God is a powerful reminder that one person's faith and determination can make a lasting difference. Faye Burns' devotion sowed seeds of hope that continue to bear fruit, ensuring that the church remains a beacon of faith for generations to come.
Matthew 21:22
And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.