OUR STORY

First United Pentecostal Church of Quitman, Mississippi, was founded in October 1970 by Reverend Glen McLeod and his wife, Sister Brenda McLeod. In its humble beginnings, the congregation rented a modest house on Archusa Avenue, sustained by the generous support of Mount Pisgah United Pentecostal Church. Under the leadership of Rev. Bill Moore, Mount Pisgah graciously paid the church’s rent for its first year. From 1971 to 1975, the growing congregation moved to a building previously used by the East Mississippi Electric Power Association.

Despite facing early challenges, the church witnessed God’s Hand at work, opening doors in the community. One of the most miraculous moments came when the congregation was able to purchase its current property on CR 151/Palestine Road for just $1,000. Shortly after, they cut and sold timber from the land, yielding $1,500—more than enough to cover the cost. A groundbreaking ceremony for the new building was held in the winter of 1973, officiated by Reverend Richard Forsyth. By 1975, the church held its first service in the newly completed sanctuary, marking the beginning of a season of growth. The addition of a fellowship hall in 1982 further expanded the church’s capacity to serve the community.

Reverend and Sister McLeod faithfully pastored the congregation for nearly 44 years, nurturing the church through decades of spiritual and physical growth. In April 2014, Reverend Shannon Thornhill and his wife were elected as pastors, serving until October 2015. 

Following them, Reverend TJ Jackson and his wife led the church from March 2016 until July 2018, during which the church experienced a period of revival and growth. 

In August 2018, Reverend Corbin Kill and his wife, Sister Summer Kill, were elected as the current Pastor, continuing the legacy of faith, dedication, and vision for the future that has always defined First United Pentecostal Church.

In 2022, First UPC received an unexpected financial blessing that opened the door to a much-needed addition, affectionately known as "the expansion." Construction began in December 2022 and was completed by the spring of 2023. Apart from the initial preparation and pouring of the foundation, as well as the installation of the HVAC system, nearly every aspect of the project was carried out by the skilled and dedicated hands of two faithful men, Brother John Morgan and Brother Larry Moore, with others stepping in to help as they were able.

The expansion was truly a testament to God's provision. Not only did a generous financial gift make the construction possible, but almost all the materials needed to complete the interior—including sheetrock, trim, doors, vanities, and toilets—were donated. Thanks to this outpouring of support and resources, the church was able to finish the project entirely debt-free, standing as a powerful example of faith, unity, and God’s abundant blessings.  

The expansion project blessed the church with two new children's ministry classrooms, four modern (and much needed!) bathrooms, and a versatile children's church and multi-purpose room. These additions have greatly enhanced the church's ability to serve its growing congregation, providing welcoming spaces for ministry and fellowship.