Our Story

Led by the Holy Spirit, God has brought us together to begin this church, forming a community rooted in His purpose. This is the start of a story He is writing—one that will display His faithfulness through us and for generations to come. We exist to connect people, walk in the Spirit, and live like Jesus!

In the Beginning

The First Assembly of God congregation lead by Pastor Ron & Judy Denham invited Dr. Bishop Burton Ross Sr. and Lady Bernice, from Guyana, South America, to pastor a new work. New Life Assembly of God was founded in the neighborhood of East Florence and flourished there for over 27 years under the leadership of Dr. Bishop Burton & Minister Bernice Ross.

Transition & The Fire

Early on Good Friday morning, March 29, 2013, Bishop Ross made his entrance into the presence of the Almighty God. After the transition of Bishop Ross, Pastor Andrew found the mantle of leadership placed on his shoulders. On Palm Sunday in 2016, Pastor call that the church was engulfed in flames. New Life was was gutted by fire with the church being declared a total loss.

The Merge

While meeting in the First Presbyterian Church they also enjoyed worshipping with First Assembly. After several powerful worship experiences the Denhams and Rosses enjoyed fellowship and began seeking Holy Spirit on merging the two churches. Believing God had given them an initial green light to proceed, the men brought their churches’ board members and spouses together for fellowship and prayer several times. After prayer, fasting, and church bodies met and leaders ratified their decision of their pastors and church boards with nearly unanimous approval. 

The Assembly Was Born

First Assembly of God --a predominantly white congregation, and the New Life Assembly of God—a majority black congregation, have made the decision to permanently merge under one roof and new name: The Assembly, naming Pastor Burton Ross as the Senior Pastor. On Nov. 6 2016, the two churches came together for their first official service as one church, and to announce the renaming of the now unified congregations as “The Assembly” at 2925 West Palmetto Street.