First United Pentecostal Church of Fulton

The journey of faith for Bro. C.L. and Sis. Dorthy Baine began as newlyweds when they attended a revival. On August 6, 1952—Bro. Baine’s birthday—Sis. Baine received the wonderful gift of the Holy Ghost. Determined not to be outdone, Bro. Baine sought and received the Holy Ghost the very next night. Since that moment, he has been a faithful servant of God.

For many years, they lived up north, pioneering and pastoring churches. In 1976, God directed them to the small town of Fulton, Mississippi, to begin a new work for His glory. Following God’s guidance, they established the First United Pentecostal Church in an old white house located directly across the street from where the church stands today.

God’s blessings were evident as the church grew. In 1978 or 1979, the congregation purchased a house that became the fellowship hall. Later, the sanctuary was expanded to accommodate the growing church family. Remarkably, Bro. Baine realized during a conversation with a minister friend that the new sanctuary was the one he had dreamed of years before.

Bro. Baine was a man of few words, but his comforting presence, encouraging spirit, warm handshake, silent prayers, and kind smile made a lasting impact on everyone he encountered. Despite life’s challenges, including health issues and accidents, he remained steadfast in his faith and leadership.

In 2003, after decades of dedicated service, Bro. Baine retired, and Bro. Billy and Sis. Vicki Burleson were elected as active pastors, with Bro. Baine serving as Senior and Founding Pastor. Bro. Burleson often remarked, “If you have a problem, call me. If you want to take someone out to eat, call Bro. Baine.”
Bro. Baine’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched and in the sanctuary that stands as a testament to his unwavering love and dedication to Fulton and the people of Itawamba County.