John Hoyt

Rev. J.S. Hoyt received the Holy Ghost in 1932 during a revival being preached by Rev. Johnny Magee in Springhill, Louisiana, at the age of 15. Shortly afterward, at the age of 16, he was baptized in the Name of Jesus at Ponchatoula, Louisiana. He quickly became involved in the ministry. Almost immediately after his conversion, he began traveling throughout Mississippi, preaching revivals and seeing many souls saved. Bro. Hoyt's ordination took place in Vidor, Texas, with Bro. and Sis. Freeman (foreign missionaries) in July 1942.

Bro. Hoyt's ministry spanned over 60 years. During this time, he built over 12 churches throughout Mississippi and Louisiana. Only God knows the exact number, as Bro. Hoyt did not keep thorough records. His love for the Lord and the need to spread God's word often kept him pastoring two churches at a time. He would build one and then start the another one, pastoring both until he could find a preacher for one of them, while trying to support a wife and a growing family.

He was a man of great faith with an unwavering love for the Lord. He also had an inherent belief in the goodness of people. Ministers of many other faiths would seek guidance from Bro. Hoyt, and he enjoyed sharing the Word with them. He would say,"If I can't help them, I won't discourage them either.”

Bro. Hoyt served Mississippi as presbyter for several years in Section Eleven of the Mississippi District United Pentecostal Church.

If he was with us today, he would likely recite Acts 2:38, a favorite verse of his. Then he would tell us that faith in our God and His holy Word, forgiveness of our sins, and a little fresh caught catfish fried just the right way is all any of us need to keep us moving closer to Heaven.

Then he would play "I'll Fly Away" on his harmonica.