Inspired by a revival in 1946, the old church located at 135th Street and Charlotte in Martin City has endured despite difficult circumstances. Below is a historical timeline showing the evolution of the church from 1946 to 2020. Read the full story>>
Homer “Roy” Lynn and Thelma Lynn donated part of their land for the construction of the Faith Tabernacle church building in 1946.
Planning construction on open land at 135th and Charlotte
Digging the church foundation at 135th & Charlotte in 1946.
Construction of the church was stopped due to tight controls on lumber and other materials needed in the nation’s World War II effort. Word spread all the way to the White House where Freeman says President Harry Truman stepped in and cleared the way for construction to resume. A handwritten note by Roy Lynn celebrates completion.
Walls in place for the Faith Tabernacle church building.
The first Sunday school at the church was held before construction was completed.
The first preacher takes his place, Pastor Johnny Rawie
John and Ginny Rawie
Construction of the Faith Tabernacle church building completed in 1946.
View of the Lynn home behind the church at 135th & Charlotte. You can see the back of the church on the left.
The Ruskin Heights tornado destroyed the parsonage next door, but it was still recognizable.
Roy and Thelma Lynn survived the Ruskin Heights tornado in an underground space beneath their garage. When they climbed out, they realized only their 1955 Oldsmobile (see the previous photo) was spared and they began driving around Martin City to help other survivors.
The church remained active until the early 2000s and then sat empty mostly until the Anointed House of Glory renewed its purpose in 2012.
Anointed House of Glory 2020
Anointed House of Glory 2020
Anointed House of Glory 2020
Pastor Darwin Neal of the Anointed House of Glory church in Martin City.
*Historical account and photos courtesy © Phil Freeman.