Featured Branch:
Kingstree, South Carolina

Early in the 1930s, the small congregation in the Apostolic Faith Church of Kingstree, South Carolina, held services in cottages and rented buildings. Eventually, they decided to construct their own building, and secured a property in a wooded area. The first building was constructed from poles harvested from the site, with pews made from poles mounted on shorter lengths of the same material. The roof consisted of poles with bushes used to make a sort of thatched roof, and sawdust covered the floor. It was a very humble building, but God honored the small, enthusiastic group and blessed it with His presence, continually adding to the number of worshippers.

During the 1940s, another building was constructed of a more sturdy nature. This church was built with a stucco exterior and metal roof. Oil lamps were used for illumination, while wood and coal stoves were used for heat when necessary. The congregation in this structure experienced steady growth. In 1963, it was apparent that a larger place was needed. New property was purchased 1500 feet from the former location, on the same street. Once again the willing workers were busy, and a new church was dedicated on May 3, 1964. Four years later an educational building was added. This facility included a conference room, five Sunday school classrooms, a pastor’s office, two bedrooms and full bath for visiting ministers, a kitchen and dining area, and women’s and men’s restrooms. This structure greatly expanded the facilities and usefulness of the church.

The “willing workers of Kingstree” were not yet finished, however. Under the energetic leadership of the Reverend William McClary, who was appointed pastor during August of 1986, the congregation continued to grow in numbers. On April 16, 1990, remodeling of the church was in order. The goal was to enlarge the main sanctuary, put a new roof over the whole structure, rebuild the restrooms, install new windows, and enclose the breezeway between the two buildings. While the labor of removing the roof structure from the original building and covering the whole building was in progress, the church people prayed earnestly that the Lord would withhold the rain, and He did! During the time of this remodel, church services were held in the educational building.

All the work progressed on schedule, making it possible to hold a rededication of the church on May 5, 1991. Time has passed quickly, but the Kingstree congregation is still enjoying the fruit of their labors. In the words of their pastor, “Our church now can seat about three hundred persons." The combined choir (adult and young adult) has 40-45 members. Rev. McClarey is assisted by an assistant pastor and youth pastor. They have a cafeteria that operates for special dinners, namely revivals, weddings, youth groups, etc.” The structure is very attractive with a beautiful brick exterior, and the welcome sign is always out. The Kingstree Apostolic Faith invites all to“Come and see us!”

For more information about our Kingstree schedule of services and location click here.