A wise man produces good fruit in his life, demonstrating wisdom through his actions, speech, and relationships.
James 3:17-18
Superintendent Carl Payne
Pastor Emeritus
In 1982, God recognized the unwavering devotion of a humble servant—a man who loved Him and His people deeply, and obeyed His call without hesitation. Thus, God appointed Elder Carl Payne as Pastor of the Millington Church of God in Christ. With just eight members, Pastor Payne remained steadfast in his mission with enthusiasm and great hope. He faithfully shepherded this small congregation until God brought growth in members who had received Christ as their Lord and Savior. Then, in 1988, God blessed a merger between the Millington Church and New Hope Church in Drummonds, TN. As a result many people received salvation, healing, and a newfound freedom in and through Jesus Christ.
For 16 years, Pastor Payne faithfully served as the shepherd of New Hope Church of God in Christ in Drummonds, TN. Then, in 2004, he received a divine directive from God to return to Millington, TN. Without hesitation, the congregation followed their shepherd, trusting in both his obedience to God and God's provision. Despite uncertainty about where they would gather for worship, they remained steadfast in their faith.
When Pastor Payne announced the move back to Millington as per God's instruction, the congregation embraced it wholeheartedly. In November 2004, God provided a house for worship, which they gratefully accepted, although they considered purchasing it, believing God had greater plans. God continued to guide them, assuring them of His presence and provision. In August 2005, another place of worship was provided at Jefferson Mortuary Chapel in Millington, TN. Gratefully, they accepted this new location and continued to give glory to God, witnessing the growth of the church with every new place of worship provided.
Their journey led them from Jefferson Mortuary Chapel to their present location on Wilkinsville Road, Millington, TN, where they became Greater New Hope Ministries COGIC. Through it all, they recognized God's blessings and faithfulness.
In 2022, Superintendent Carl Payne was honored with the status of Superintendent/Pastor Emeritus, and Elder E. Page Reynolds was appointed by TN Central's Jurisdictional Prelate, Bishop Brandon B. Porter, to serve as their Pastor. In 2023, Pastor Shun Clark served as interim pastor and was officially installed as Pastor of Greater New Hope COGIC in January 2024.
As we reflect on our journey thus far, we are filled with gratitude for the blessings and guidance we've received from above. As Greater New Hope Ministries COGIC, we stand as a beacon of hope in the Millington community, committed to spreading love, faith, and compassion to all. As we move forward, let us continue to embrace growth, both spiritually and as a local church family, shining brightly as the "Hope in the Mill." Together, with unwavering faith and determination, we will illuminate the path ahead, leading others toward the light of God's grace and everlasting hope.