Church History

It all began in the early 1930's when a great tent revival, conducted by the late Rev. Charles McDaniel, came to the community of Austinville, VA. The revival lasted for weeks with people walking for miles to attend the services, many of which lasted to early morning hours. Souls were saved with reports of healings an miracles taking place. From this revival, Austinville Pentecostal Holiness Church was born. The church was organized in the home of the late Andrew Beasley and worship services were held in homes while plans were made to build a House of Worship.

A parcel of land was donated by Sam Arnold and small donations began trickling in. all this took place during the depression and money was scarce but friends an volunteer labor were plentiful. Cinder blocks were made down by the river and in late 1933, the congregation moved into the first APHC with Rev. Charles McDaniel serving as Pastor.

The New River was unable to divide the community of Austinville as many would cross by boat or ferry in the summer and often walk the ice in the winter to attend services. Worship services were held for 40 years in the first APHC building with many milestones reached during those years. Then, on May 3rd, 1972, forty-nine people stood in the rain as ground was broken on Grayson Hill to mark the location of the second APHC facility. Once again, the congregation came together with the men donating labor and the ladies of the Women's Auxiliary preparing and serving them meals, while the new structure was built. On Sunday, March 17th, 1974 with Rev. Garland Porter as Pastor, worship began in the new APHC and continues here today. In the spring of 2003, a project was completed giving the facility an addition on the front providing two bathrooms, a Pastor's office and a new foyer.

Through the years, many individuals have worked and contributed to the ministry success of this Church and to those we are eternally grateful. The congregation and leadership remain dedicated to community outreach and are excited about the possibilities of ministry which exist until Jesus returns for His Church.