Eighth Avenue Church of God in Meridian was established in 1903 as a part of the Church of God Reformation Movement. Its congregation is made up of those who believe in the virgin birth of Jesus Christ, His death, burial, and resurrection. Their motto then and still is, “We reach our hands in fellowship to every blood washed one.”

Many pastors have come and gone since 1903, but many of the foundations they laid are still part of the congregation’s traditions.

Rev. James Hopson has served as the pastor for the past 1 1/2 years. He is married to Bessie Hopson and they have two daughters and two grandsons.

The church will hold a pastor appreciation service on Oct. 22 at 10:45 a.m. The congregation will use the service to thank Pastor Hopson, tell him they love him, and pray God’s continued blessings upon him and his family. After the service, there will be a luncheon featuring the pastor’s favorite foods.

Under Pastor Hopson’s leadership, the church’s mission statement has become more viable and active in the community. Thus, church attendance has grown and its outreach programs have touched the lives of many outside the church walls.

About the church:

Name: Eighth Avenue Church of God.

Mission statement: To evangelize, educate and encourage individuals for the glory of God and for positive change in the community.

Pastor: Rev. James Hopson – 1 1/2 years.

Denomination: Non-denominational.

Founded: 1921.

Members: 91

Address: 1901 8th Ave., Meridian, MS 39301.

Contact info: 601-482-8095 or 601-479-0512 or 601-693-1677.

Service Times:

Sunday School – 9:30 a.m., Morning Worship – 10:45 a.m.

Weekly Programs:

Wednesday night Prayer Meeting/Bible Study – Youth Activities – 6 p.m.

Bible Study and Tutoring 4th Wednesday each month – family fun night – 6 p.m.

Outreach Ministries each month:

Poplar Springs – 2nd Saturday – 10 a.m.

The Pines – 2nd Sunday – 9 a.m.

The Pines – 4th Saturday – 11 a.m.

Hunger Ministry at L.O.V.E.’s Kitchen – every other third Sunday – 12:30 p.m.

Repair and upkeep of widows and single mothers homes and yards when requested/needed.

Annual event special to our church:

In December, the church designates a specific Sunday to receive a special offering referred to as the Christ’s birthday offering and all money received is used to help foreign missionaries to spread the good news of the gospel. Also in December, the church will have a live nativity scene depicting the Christmas story.