CUC History
"The Early Years"
In 1939, mother Berry heeded the commission of the Lord. The Lord entrusted in her heart the task of a lighthouse to rescue the souls of the people. She began her pilgrimage by starting prayer services in her home with her family. As time moved on, prayer fellowship in her home spread to friends and family in the community. Fellowship services began to move from house to house. In the face of many obstacles, she continued to hold on to the Lord. Her efforts brought about a time of much change. God had given her a vision. Her vision guided her and prompted her to petition Bishop Carr to establish a place of worship for the new converts in her community. Bishop Carr sent sister Johnson and her family to oversee and assist this effort.
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In later years, the fellowship of the congregation moved yet again to the home of brother and sister Harvey. The work of the Lord began to germinate and flourish. Bishop Saunders, Sr., was pastor during that time. As the work grew, the need for a permanent place of worship was inevitable. Again, Bishop Carr intervened. In 1950, Bishop Carr directed them to erect a sanctuary. Mother Berry’s vision flourished. Thereafter, Bishop Carr sent mother Bailey, Elder Owens, and several elders to help minister in the fellowship services. Elder Owens pastored the flock for a few years. Soon thereafter, Elder McNeil and his wife were sent to Maryland. Elder McNeil remained a faithful supporter and worker until his departure to be with the Lord.
As time progressed, Bishop Johnson and his wife pastored our church which was then known as “Little Rehobeth Church of God in Christ Jesus (Apostolic).” Many people were added to the church and committed to the Lord. A time of transition began to take place. Bishop Johnson moved on to establish a work. His work was greatly blessed. His departure created a need for a shepherd at Little Rehobeth.
Bishop Berry was ordained by Bishop Carr and Bishop Saunders to pastor the church. With much honor, he continued in his mother’s vision and commission. In 1965, under the leadership of Bishop Saunders, Sr., Little Rehobeth was renamed Calvary United Church of Jesus Christ (Apostolic). Bishop Berry and his mother heeded the call of Jesus as stated in the Bible in St. John 21:15-16, “Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? Feed my Lamb. Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Feed my sheep.” Bishop Berry was a faithful servant until his death.
On May 1, 2004, he was ordained as the fine pastor of Calvary United Church of Jesus Christ.
