FPC United - McComb

In February 1951, Rev. C.C. Hoyt, while pastoring in a neighboring city, felt a call to begin a church in East McComb. The first meeting place is somewhat disputed as some say it was on Cherry Street; others say on North Live Oak. A rough structure was built with a canvas for a roof and walls. Rev. C.C. Hoyt eventually purchased property on North Live Oak and began to build a building, and the First United Pentecostal Church of McComb, Mississippi, was established.

Like many Pentecostal Churches in the south, the first few years had many changes in Pastors. After Bro. Hoyt resigned, the Church was blessed and led by Rev. Bobby Landsdale, Rev. Buford Sims, Rev. Royce Odom, and Rev. Raymond Moore. In 1970, Rev. T.M. Roberts was elected pastor. The Church was located on North Live Oak, and shortly thereafter, after Bro. Roberts relocated to Park Drive, the name of the Church was changed to Park Drive United Pentecostal Church. In 1976, Rev. J.J. Bourn became pastor. In 1985, Rev. A.L. Allen was elected and pastored for 13 years. In 1998, Rev. Wayne Cardwell was elected and pastored for five years.

McComb’s United Pentecostal history is rich and blessed because of the men and women God used to bring the church this far.

March 2003, Rev. & Mrs. Terry Ballard were elected pastor. The Church was looking to relocate when Bro. Ballard became Pastor, and in 2005, began building at 1117 HWY 98E, McComb. The last service in the building located on Park Drive was Easter 2005. The Congregation then moved to a property known as the Gospel Opry, where they had service for one year. In May 2006, they moved into their new building and went back to the original name, First United Pentecostal Church of McComb. Rev. and Mrs. Ballard now serve as the longest-serving Pastor, for over 20 years.

The First UPC of McComb is rich in Apostolic history and is grateful for their past and for every pastor and wife who have served, and all of the faithful saints who have been a part and give credit to not only God, but all of these precious people.