Reverend Leonard Charles Adley
1975-2006
Reverend Leonard Charles Adley was elected in June 1975, and membership rose to two hundred and two. Rev. Adley was friendly, modest, and strong. He came with his wife Sister Ora Lee Adley and children Charles and Cassandra. LeDale was born after moving to the “new church.”
Beulah Grove was his third church. He previously pastored Greater Mt. Cora in Metcalfe, MS and Pleasant Hill in Panther Burn, MS. He later pastored Rose Hill in Anguilla, MS.
In 1986, the church voted to acquire property at 404 James Trimm Drive, Leland, Mississippi, from Mrs. Hattie Wingate. Due to low ground, women of the church raised funds to level the ground. Trees were donated by USDA/ARS Stoneville, MS, and planted by youth members. The new church was designed and built by Mr. Rufus Robinson of Leland, MS.
A week-long anniversary celebration was held October 19–23, 1987. The official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony took place Sunday, October 25, 1987 at 11:00 a.m., followed by dedication services October 26 – November 1, 1987.
A rebuilt cornerstone was laid in October 1987 by A.E. Lodge #712 F&AM. The church mortgage was paid off quickly due to strong support.
Upgrades included:
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Paved parking lot and church van (June 1995)
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Resurfaced parking lot, expanded choir stand, painted baptism pool, televisions installed (April 1997)
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July 2000 – 29 passenger bus, upgraded technology
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July 2004 – concrete laid in back parking area
Additional renovations included foyer, bathrooms, steeple, Sunday school rooms, and fellowship hall. Renovations were completed by William Henry Johnson.
Annual programs included Black History, Easter, Mother’s Day, Children’s Day, Father’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
Youth fundraisers supported trips to Dallas, St. Louis, Memphis, Atlanta, Nashville, Magic Springs, and more.
Choirs included Adult Choir, Young Adult Choir, Junior Choir, Sunshine Band, and YSBCC (Young Sisters and Brothers in Christ Community Choir).
In August 2006, Reverend Leonard Charles Adley passed away. Pastor Gregory Tucker was elected in January 2007.