Our History
Woodstock Park CHC is dedicated to spreading the Gospel and empowering individuals to grow in their relationship with God. Our mission is to be a lighthouse in our community, guiding souls to the light of Jesus Christ and providing a safe harbor for all who seek refuge from life’s storms.
Join us, and be a part of our story.
Beginnings
In 1948, a group of about fifteen dedicated Christians, led by Reverend Horace Ricketson, founded the Woodstock Park Congregational Holiness Mission. Their goal was to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ in the west side of Jacksonville. They initially held cottage prayer meetings in the homes of Brother and Sister Frank Combs and Brother and Sister W. L. Ayers on Woodstock Park Avenue.
Establishing a Home
In April 1949, the group purchased property at 3201 Columbus Avenue for $2,000. They relocated a Camp Blanding Army barracks building to the site, providing a physical home for their growing congregation.
Joining the Florida Conference
On August 20, 1949, the Woodstock Park Congregational Holiness Church (CHC) was officially voted into the Florida Conference of the Congregational Holiness Church, Inc., along with the Rock Landing Church and the Green Cove Springs Church. Reverend Horace Ricketson served as the first pastor, leading seven charter members.
Our Faith and Resources
Woodstock Park CHC is a member of the Florida District and adheres to the CHC Articles of Faith. Our church library houses records of the FL District Minutes starting from 1971, as well as General Minutes and Disciplines dating back to 1956. The library also includes works by CHC authors such as Rev. B. L. Cox, Rev. Benjamin F. Duncan, Bishop Cullen L. Hicks, Dr. Hugh Skelton, and Bishop Ronald Wilson.
Building and Renovations
- 1953: Construction of the present church auditorium.
- 1960: Addition of choir and Sunday School rooms.
- 1969: Auditorium renovation with new pews and light fixtures.
- 1975: Construction of the fellowship hall.
- 1992: Addition of a new entrance lobby with a steeple.
- 1999: Installation of new restrooms.
- 2014: Major renovation of the auditorium and choir with new walls, insulation, carpet, lights, pulpit, pews, and choir chairs.
- 2021: Renovation of the Fellowship Hall’s dining area.
- 2022: Renovation of the kitchen and oasis areas.
Our Dedicated Leaders
Throughout the years, Woodstock Park CHC has been blessed with the guidance of many dedicated pastors. Their leadership and commitment have helped shape our church into the vibrant and welcoming community it is today. Below is a list of the pastors who have served our congregation, each contributing to our rich history and spiritual growth.
| Duration of Service | Name of Pastor |
|---|---|
| 2022 – Present | Rev. Bryan Keith Taylor |
| 1989 – 2022 | Rev. George L. Dugger |
| 1979 – 1989 | Rev. Willard E. Lee |
| 1978 – 1979 | Rev. Harold E. Seagert |
| 1974 – 1978 | Rev. Joseph M. Sikes |
| 1973 – 1974 | Rev. Charlie F. Shadrick |
| 1972 – 1973 | Rev. William Hadden |
| 1970 – 1972 | Rev. Charlie F. Shadrick |
| 1964 – 1970 | Rev. Milton Luke |
| 1963 – 1964 | Rev. William R. Dial |
| 1962 – 1963 | Rev. Hazel Crews* |
| 1961 – 1962 | Rev. Clyde Newmans |
| 1961 | Rev. Fred Combs* |
| 1956 – 1961 | Rev. Jimmy Dobbs |
| 1954 – 1956 | Rev. Fred Combs |
| 1953 – 1954 | Rev. Clyde Newmans |
| 1953 | Rev. Fred Combs* |
| 1949-1953 | Rev. Horace Ricketson |
Grow With Us
Woodstock Park CHC has a rich history and a vibrant community. We welcome everyone to join us in worship and fellowship as we continue our mission to share the gospel and serve our community.