Our History

The story of Conway Church of God began in 1943 with a burden for the people of Conway and a desire to see a Church of God established in the community. From humble beginnings in a revival tent to the growing church family we are today, our history is a testimony of God's faithfulness, the dedication of His people, and the power of the Holy Spirit.

In 1943, Olive Hyder Wrote to the State Overseer L. W. McIntyre expressing the need for a Church of God in Conway, South Carolina. In response, the State Evangelist's tent was sent on July 5, 1943, and the Lord blessed the community in revival!

On August 8, 1943, Rev. J.B. Cole officially organized the church with eight charter members: Woodrow Leigh, Claude Hyder, Olive Hyder, Mary Lois Hyder, Mary Wofford Baker, Estelle Floyd, Leona Holt, and Betty Ruth Lee.

Rev. E. W. Hunter became the congregation's first pastor in 1943. With World War II underway, resources were scarce, and the prospect of purchasing property and constructing a church building seemed nearly impossible. Nevertheless, the congregation moved forward in faith.

On February 17, 1944, the church purchased two lots from Brought and Collins Co. for $400.00. Despite difficulties obtaining lumber and building permits, Brother Hunter secured building materials from several locations and hauled them to Conway. He and Brother Hyder worked on the building during the day, while other church members joined in the afternoons. Women and children also contributed by carrying lumber, shingles, and nails and by providing food and water for those working.

Even in the face of hardship and neighborhood opposition to the holiness movement, these faithful believers persevered. The roof was added on July 4, 1944, and the first service in the new church building was held on July 30, 1944, followed by dinner on the grounds. What began as a revival tent had become a permanent place of worship.

In 1946, Rev. H. R. Giles became the church's second pastor. During his ten-year ministry, a Sunday School Department was established, strengthening the church's commitment to teaching God's Word to future generations.

Rev. Paul Brady arrived in 1956, and the parsonage was remodeled during his administration. In 1958, Rev. J. A. Belt became pastor. Under his leadership, the ladies Auxiliary held its first dinner, raising funds to purchase hardwood flooring for the church. Furniture was also purchased for the parsonage.

Rev. Robert Taylor came from Iowa in 1959. During his ministry, the church purchased an additional lot from Hoyt E. Davis on September 11, 1959, for $480.00.

In September 1962, Rev. F. W. Black began his ministry in Conway. During his administration, a new parsonage was built, and construction began on a new church building. The completed sanctuary seated approximately 268 people and featured oak pews, pulpit furniture, hardwood floors, oak paneling in the choir and front of the church, and central heating and air conditioning. The educational department measured 28 by 72 feet and included ten classrooms and a kitchen. The new facilities represented a significant step forward for the growing congregation. 

Rev. A. L. Stone arrived from Florida in 1965, followed by Rev. M. R. Shaw in 1970. On March 21, 1974, the church purchased two additional lots from Mildred T. Johnson for $7,000.00, and construction began on a new fellowship hall.

Rev. F. W. Black returned for a second term in 1974. As the congregation continued to grow, the fellowship hall was converted into six classrooms to accommodate the increasing need for educational space. Construction then began on another fellowship hall, which continues to serve the church today.

In August 1978, Rev. Bobby Wynn became pastor. His administration brought several improvements, including a new roof for the parsonage, a walkway connecting the church to the educational building, and the beginning of a children's church ministry.

In July 1987, Rev. Bill Johnson became pastor, followed by Rev. Bobby Duncan in August 1988 and Rev. James Goude in January 1992.

Throughout these years, the church continued to grow, and God's Spirit continued to move among His people. During Rev. Goude's administration, three tithe records were broken within an eight-month period, reflecting the congregation's growing commitment and faithfulness.

In March 1998, Rev. Leon Parker began his ministry at Conway Church of God. During his administration, the church purchased more than 40 acres of land on Cultra Road for $640,000.00. This property would provide room for future growth and plans for a new church campus.

Rev. Stuart Jacobs arrived in March 2004, beginning a new chapter in the church's history. Under his leadership, construction of the first phase of the new church began and was completed in October 2006.

In July 2005, the position of church secretary was established. Rev. Jacobs also introduced and incorporated the Elders Program, providing a biblical framework for church leadership and oversight as the congregation continued to experience the growth God had entrusted to it. 

The completion of the new church facilities marked a significant milestone in the life of Conway Church of God. The vision and sacrifices of earlier generations had helped prepare the way for continued ministry, outreach, and opportunities to serve the community. 

In November 2024, Rev. Brett Davis became pastor of Conway Church of God. Under Pastor Brett's leadership, the church has experienced significant growth through new conversions, baptisms in the Holy Spirit, increased church membership, and financial stability.

As we look toward the future, we remain committed to sharing the Gospel, making disciples, reaching our community, and creating opportunities for people to encounter the life-changing power of Jesus Christ. We believe the best days of ministry are still ahead as we continue following God's direction for our church. 

From a revival tent in 1943 to the ministry God has entrusted to us today, the history of Conway Church of God is a story of faith, perseverance, sacrifice, and divine provision.

We give God all the praise and glory for His faithfulness throughout the years. We are deeply grateful for the pioneers who labored, sacrificed, prayed, and remained faithful so that a Church of God could be established in Conway. Their dedication help build a foundation that continues to support the ministry today.

As we honor our past, we embrace the opportunities before us with faith and expectation. Our mission remains the same: to serve the Lord, reach the lost, strengthen believers, and share the hope of Jesus Christ with every generation.