Holy Temple Celebrates 100 Years of Faith and Legacy in Bunnell

BUNNELL, Fla. — A century of worship, family legacy, and community service was celebrated Sunday, May 17, as Holy Temple Church of God in Christ marked its 100th anniversary while honoring its founder, Elder James A. Pompey, and welcoming a new pastor.

The centennial celebration at Holy Temple Church of God in Christ brought together generations of members and visitors to reflect on the church’s history and look ahead to its future. The service recognized the enduring impact of Elder James A. Pompey, known to many as “Preacher Pompey,” whose ministry reached far beyond the pulpit.

Among those sharing memories was Mother Queenie Jackson, whose family connection to Holy Temple dates back to its early years. Jackson said her mother joined the church after hearing Elder Pompey preach during a street service. Though she had been a lifelong church member, Jackson recalled the date of her personal salvation with certainty.

“I was saved Jan. 2, 1952,” she said.

Jackson also remembered Pompey’s commitment to the congregation, recalling how he would walk from Daytona Beach to Bunnell to minister. “There wasn’t a highway then,” she said with a smile. “So I guess he could take some crooks and turns to make it a little bit shorter.” The memory drew laughter and painted a picture of the dedication required to build a church nearly a century ago.

Pompey’s grandson, Rodney Williams, shared stories preserved through family conversations and community memories. Williams recalled that many knew Pompey as one of the first people in the area to have an office inside his home. He also remembered Pompey’s radio ministry on WELE and later WPUL, where listeners became familiar with his signature greeting:

“Thank you, and a good, good morning.”

Williams also shared a lighter family story involving a young Willie Durden Sr., who had just learned to drive. According to family recollections, Pompey quickly saw an opportunity. “Good,” Pompey reportedly said. “You can drive me to Bunnell.” Durden Sr. was more than willing to help, Williams said, because he had his eye on a young lady who would later become his wife and First Lady Mamie Durden.

The celebration also featured Bishop Michael E. Hill Sr., interim prelate of the Florida Eastern Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction, who traveled from Michigan and delivered the Word. Overseeing the church’s pastoral transition, Hill spoke of being impressed with Holy Temple and expressed excitement about the installation of Elder Willie Durden Jr., a transition that has deep family roots.

Durden Jr. is the son of former pastor Elder Willie Durden Sr., who led the congregation for years and helped guide the construction of the church’s current sanctuary. Durden Sr. also is the nephew of founding pastor Elder James Pompey, linking Holy Temple’s past and present through family and ministry. The service concluded with the pastoral installation of Elder Willie Durden Jr.

During the ceremony, Mother Shelia Johnson reflected on the legacy of Elder Willie Durden Sr. “He always had something to teach you,” Johnson said. She remembered him as a pastor who led by example. “He set a prime example for his members,” she said. “He showed you how to love by example.” Johnson also praised his dedication and leadership in bringing members together to build the sanctuary where the church worships today.

The historic celebration received recognition beyond the church walls, with coverage appearing in the Daytona Times newspaper, marking the occasion as an important milestone for both Holy Temple and the wider community.

The significance of the day rested in more than headlines or history. It lived in stories of sacrifice, ministry, and family.

One hundred years after Elder James A. Pompey founded Holy Temple Church of God in Christ, the church continues to stand as a testament to faith, perseverance, and the power of legacy.