FA Memphis Connection: What Is the History of First Assembly Memphis in the 901?
From the dusty streets of 1907 Memphis to the vibrant community in Cordova today, the story of First Assembly Memphis is a 100-year testimony of God’s faithfulness in the 901.
How has First Assembly Memphis served the 901 for over 100 years?
Since 1907, First Assembly Memphis has been a spiritual home in the 901, growing from storefront revivals to a multi-generational community in Cordova. Guided by the Assemblies of God doctrine, we remain dedicated to strengthening families, supporting local missions, and sharing the Gospel globally.
A Century of Faith in the Heart of Memphis
When you walk into First Assembly Memphis today, you aren’t just entering a place of worship, you’re stepping into a legacy that began long before most of us were born. Our roots go back to 1907, a time when the Pentecostal message was just beginning to sweep across the nation. It started with a lawyer and teacher named L.P. Adams and a small group of believers who met in homes and tents, hungry for a deeper move of the Holy Spirit.
This wasn't just a "church start-up" in the modern sense; it was a movement of people who believed that the power of God they read about in the Book of Acts was still available for the families of Memphis. From those early tent meetings on Trigg Avenue to downtown storefronts, the heartbeat of this church has always been the same: Jesus at the center, and the Spirit as our guide.
The Milestones of Our Journey
Over the decades, First Assembly has moved across the Memphis map, following the growth of the city and the needs of our neighbors. Each location, from Jefferson Avenue to South Third Street, and eventually to our current home in Cordova, represents a season of God’s provision.
In 1934, during the height of the Great Depression, two congregations merged to officially become "First Assembly of God." It was a time of healing and unity, a reminder that we are stronger together. By the 1940s and 50s, under the leadership of pastors like William Pickthorn and James Hamill, the church saw phenomenal growth. We weren’t just "going to church"; we were building a community that cared for the 901 through bus ministries, radio broadcasts, and local outreach.
Defining Terms: What We Believe
To understand our history, it helps to know the foundations we stand on:
Assemblies of God: A global Pentecostal fellowship that emphasizes the authority of the Bible and the empowering work of the Holy Spirit in every believer's life.
Pentecostal: A biblical movement focused on the personal experience of God's presence, as seen in the early church during the day of Pentecost.
Sanctification: The lifelong process of being set apart for God’s purposes and growing more like Jesus in our character and actions.
A Legacy Beyond Sunday Morning: FACS
In 1972, First Assembly took a bold step to serve Memphis families by founding First Assembly Christian School (FACS). For over 50 years, FACS has provided a Christ-centered, academic environment for students from Pre-K through 12th grade. The goal has never been just about education; it’s about equipping the next generation of leaders to carry the light of the Gospel into their workplaces, homes, and communities. You can read more about our commitment to the future in our Mission and Vision statement.
The Modern Era: Stability and Vision
One of the most remarkable parts of our history is the stability of our leadership. In over 115 years, we have had only ten senior pastors. This continuity has allowed FA Memphis to remain anchored in our core beliefs while adapting to the needs of a changing world.
Since 1994, under the leadership of our tenth pastor, we have continued to seek "the highest point" for the Gospel in Shelby County. Our move to Walnut Grove in Cordova wasn’t just about a new building; it was about positioning ourselves to be a "Pentecostal lighthouse" for the entire 901 region.
FA Memphis History by the Numbers
1907: The year our earliest roots were planted in Memphis.
10: The number of senior pastors who have led the congregation over a century.
1934: The year the name "First Assembly of God" was formally adopted.
50+: Years of providing Christ-centered education through FACS.
1,000+: The number of lives touched weekly through our local and digital ministries.
5 Ways We Continue the Legacy Today
Spirit-Led Worship: Every service is an opportunity to encounter God’s presence, just as our founders did in those first tent meetings.
Multi-Generational Community: We value the wisdom of our seniors and the energy of our youth, ensuring there is a place for everyone.
Local Outreach: From Cordova to the inner city, we are committed to being "missionaries in our own backyard."
Global Discipleship: Through Boundless Online Church, we are reaching people who cannot attend a physical campus.
Biblical Authority: Our teaching remains firmly rooted in the 16 Fundamental Truths of the Assemblies of God.
Your Place in the Story
History isn’t just about the past; it’s about what God is doing right now. Whether you have lived in Memphis your whole life or you’re just passing through, there is a place for you in this story. We are a "local church with a global heartbeat," and we believe your best days are still ahead.
The same Holy Spirit who moved in 1907 is moving today in Cordova, Bartlett, Arlington, and across the globe. We invite you to be part of the next chapter.
A Life Takeaway
The history of FA Memphis proves that God uses ordinary people who are willing to say "yes" to His Spirit. Your life, your family, and your legacy matter to Him. Just as this church has weathered depressions, wars, and cultural shifts by staying anchored in Christ, you can find that same stability today.
Will you join us in writing the next chapter of faith in Memphis?
We'd love to connect with you. Visit www.boundlessonlinechurch.org to join our community from anywhere, or if you're in the Memphis area, find us at www.famemphis.org.
Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341. (Note: This line is for prayer and pastoral support, not emergency services. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call 911.)
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