The air was filled with joy, reverence, and gratitude as the congregation of Community Memorial Church of God in Christ gathered for the official dedication and blessing of their cornerstone on October 25, 2025. This sacred occasion marked not only a physical milestone in the church’s history but also a profound celebration of spiritual perseverance, visionary leadership, and community faithfulness under the guidance of Elder Dr. Otho James McKenney, Jr.
The ceremony opened with a spirit of unity and prayer as the Presiding Bishop of the Ecumenical Church Worldwide, Bishop Redfern II, delivered the invocation—calling upon God’s presence to sanctify the work of faithful hands and hearts that built the church. His words set a tone of sacred purpose, reminding all that the true cornerstone of every believer’s life is Christ Himself.
The highlight of the service came as Jurisdictional Prelate, Bishop William A. Prioleau, officiated the formal blessing and dedication of the cornerstone. With solemn dignity and joyful praise, he anointed the stone, declaring it a symbol of divine foundation and faith unshaken by time. The act was both a tribute to the labor and sacrifice of generations past and a charge to the current congregation to continue building
Bishop Redfern II, Presiding Bishop of the Ecumenical church of Christ Worldwide; Bishop William A. Prioleau, Jurisdictional Prelate, Church of God in Christ; Dr. Ortho James McKenney, District Superintendent and Pastor of Community Memorial Church of God in Christ
upon the legacy of holiness and service.
Elder Dr. McKenney, who has faithfully pastored Community Memorial Church for decades, stood as a living embodiment of that legacy. His life and ministry—marked by humility, hard work, and unwavering faith—have transformed lives not only in Columbia but across South Carolina and beyond. Under his leadership, the church has grown spiritually and physically, becoming a beacon of hope for countless families.
Dr. McKenney’s influence extends far beyond the pulpit. In partnership with Bishop Redfern II and the Ecumenical Church and University, he has helped build schools in Africa, ensuring that faith and education walk hand in hand in nurturing future generations. His ministry, rooted in both word and deed, reflects the enduring
truth of 1 Peter 2:5: “Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house.”
As Aaron and Regina McKenney led the congregation in singing hymns of praise and lifted prayers of thanksgiving, the cornerstone dedication became a moment of renewal and recommitment. It honored the founders who laid the church’s spiritual groundwork and celebrated Elder Dr. McKenney’s ongoing mission to serve God through faith, education, and compassion.
Community Memorial Church of God in Christ stands today as a testament to what can be accomplished when faith, vision, and community unite. The cornerstone now bears witness—not only to the building’s strength but to the enduring legacy of Elder Dr. Otho James McKenney, whose ministry continues to inspire and shape generations of believers.
