Heritage
Reformation History
The “Our History” page on the Church of God Ministries (Anderson, IN) web site (www.chog.org/) chronicles the origin of the Church of God movement. Rather than summarize the contents we have included the direct link. Also, information concerning the Virginia State organization is available at www.VirginiaChurchofGod.com
Local Congregation History
1954:
The original vision for a church in Chilhowie Virginia began in the hearts of Rev. and Mrs. Graham Chapman. A vacant “white frame church” located at 24 Main Street was acquired and on September 5, 1954, the church held its first worship service with 55 people in attendance. The original Board members and their families are owed a deep debt of gratitude for their dedication and commitment to the Church of God.
1967:
The land located at 1121 W. Lee Highway was purchased on July 24, 1967.
1968:
On July 14, 1968, the church held a ground-breaking and dedication service for the facility located at 1121 W. Lee Highway.
1969:
The first service was held June 8, 1969, in the 1121 W. Lee Highway facility. This facility “maximum comfortable seating” capacity is approximately 170 people and the square footage is approximately 9,800.
1979:
On October 7, 1979, the church celebrated a “Mortgage Burning Service” with the debt for the new property paid in full.
1989:
Pastor Bobby Dunn moved here from the Atlanta area to become the fifth pastor of this local congregation. Prior pastors in descending order were Dale Volmer, Roy Dennis, Everett Crockett and Graham Chapman.
2000:
The option to expand the 1121 W. Lee Highway facility or relocate to another place was evaluated and the decision was made to relocate. This set in motion the new building program. Dates and more building information are under the “Building Program” page.
2001:
On May 15, 2001, a five acre track on Highway 107 was purchased as the next site for the First Church of God, Chilhowie.
2007:
Effective August 9, 2007, the church became incorporated under the new Virginia Incorporation provisions. The purpose of the corporation is to facilitate the business activities. It is not the intent of this congregation for any human laws or business forms to interfere with, change or modify the doctrines and religious customs and practices of the Church.
2009:
Finally, the New Facility located at 257 Highway 107 was completed in October and the first service was planned for the 25th. Dedication was scheduled for November.