Apostolic Faith Church

John H. Ford came to Water Valley in April 1985. At that time, church services were being held in the old church located in the Camp Ground area of Water Valley, with an attendance of 18 in Sunday School. Soon after his arrival, the Lord began to bless the church with a mighty revival, and two people received the Holy Ghost.

On August 8, 1985, the congregation moved into a new church building constructed by the members on Highway 7 North. Once again, revival broke out under Brother Ford’s leadership, with several receiving the Holy Ghost and being baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. The church soon began averaging between 50 and 70 in Sunday School attendance. The congregation also sponsored 12 missionaries and planned to increase that number.

The church unanimously elected Brother Ford as pastor. He and Sister Ford accepted a tremendous responsibility, as the church carried an indebtedness of $111,000 at 13.5% interest. Truly, it was a step of faith. The congregation of Water Valley was deeply grateful that the Lord had blessed them with such a wise and dedicated pastor and pastor’s wife.

Then came the miracles.

In April 1991, the church completely paid off its indebtedness. This accomplishment was made possible through hard work, sacrifice, and sound financial stewardship. The Lord blessed numerous fundraising efforts, including the selling of peanut brittle and calendars, as well as craft fairs. The ladies of the church also faithfully cooked meals and served food at the church for a small charge to help raise funds.

Brother Ford gave all the glory to God for the miracles that had taken place. He often stated that these accomplishments were possible because the members of the Water Valley church were like the people in Nehemiah’s day: “For the people had a mind to work” (Nehemiah 4:6).

The anniversary services began on December 5, 1991, with Brother James E. Sandy, Presbyter of Section 3, serving as guest speaker. On Friday night, December 6, Brother G. R. Travis, District Superintendent, was the special speaker for the Note Burning Ceremony, assisted by Brother Doyle Spears, Mississippi District Secretary.

On Saturday night, December 7, Brother Doyle Spears ministered as the special speaker. Brother Travis also preached both Sunday morning and Sunday night on December 8.

The Water Valley church was thankful that God had sent them such a wonderful pastor and wife. Whatever Brother Ford taught or preached, he faithfully lived by example before the congregation.

Brother and Sister Ford gave God all the glory for every miracle that took place on the hill at Water Valley First United Pentecostal Church.

The church has since changed its name to Apostolic Faith Church and is pastored by Brother Charles Compton.