The Sanctuary UPC

Reaching the Delta region of Mississippi has always presented unique challenges, and the church in Yazoo City is no exception. Established in 1950, the congregation affiliated with the United Pentecostal Church International as The First United Pentecostal Church and has been led by a number of faithful pastors throughout its history.

The founding families—Wade, Stokes, and Hickman—initially connected through shared Apostolic faith while attending various churches in the city. Recognizing their common burden for truth, they began holding services in one another’s homes. With a desire to establish a formal church, they contacted Mississippi District UPCI officials and soon purchased three lots at the corner of 15th Street and Swayze Street. On June 1, 1951, the church officially entered into affiliation with the UPCI.

From 1950 to 1957, Pastor Fred Wilson led the congregation. Using an inheritance of his own resources along with personal labor, he helped construct the first church building on the property. Once completed, the congregation secured a loan to reimburse him. Under his leadership, the church grew to approximately 30 members before his resignation.

From 1957 to 1982, Rev. Hamilton J. Sanders served as pastor, faithfully leading the church through decades of growth. His wife, Hazel Sanders, also served in evangelistic ministry. When Brother Sanders began his pastorate, the congregation had only a small group, but it eventually grew to around 130 members under their leadership. During this time, the church purchased additional property through a trade with a local physician and constructed the current sanctuary in 1978, later adding an educational wing in 1982. Through fellowship suppers and fundraising efforts such as peanut brittle sales, the congregation retired its debt in 1984.

Following Pastor Sanders’ passing, a series of pastors continued to lead the church, including Bobby Upchurch (1982–1984), George F. Holt (1984–1991), Glenn Maughon (1991–1992), Jay Trammell (1992–1994), David Moore (1994–1995), Steve Blaylock (1995–1996), Lonnie Mitchell (1996–2008), and Carl Lewis (2008–present). During this time, the congregation also became known as The Sanctuary United Pentecostal Church.

Reflecting on the church’s journey, Pastor Carl Lewis notes:

“Through the years and changing times, both the church and the city of Yazoo City have experienced many ups and downs. The congregation has fluctuated, especially as the local economy shifted after the decline of the oil industry. At one point, membership dwindled to just 10 faithful saints. Yet God has shown His favor, and the church is once again growing and reaching our community. With God’s blessing, we are excited for the next chapter—revival until Jesus comes.”