1999 to Present
The church was without a permanent pastor for three years but was led by Reverend Ralph Jackson, Interim Pastor, until the invitation was extended to the Reverend Dr. Robert Charles Scott, a Monticello, Mississippi native who was pastoring a church in Lexington, North Carolina. He would be the youngest pastor to be called to this church.
Reverend Scott has added several teaching ministries to Central: TNT -Thursday Night Teaching (Bible Study) (a noon class was added in 2004), CEO-Christian Education Orientation (New Disciple’s Class), and Teacher Training (training classes for those working with young people). These additional ministries were also established by Reverend Scott: Women of Central, Nursery and Child Care (Sunday mornings), Guys Night Out (Recreational), Couples Ministry, CBC Learning Clinic (Tutoring Services), Pastor’s Choir (Daytime Choir), Technology Ministry, Young Ladies of Christ (for 5-17 year old girls), Young Men of Christ (for 5-17 year old boys), and Friday Night Live, a contemporary praise and worship service.
The church has experienced an increase of finances due to the teachings and encouragement of tithing by Reverend Scott. The budget has increased dramatically and funds have been at an all time high because of the increase in discipleship and stewardship.
Renovation of the Dr. William H. Claiborne Educational Center and a new women’s lounge in the sanctuary building were completed, and plans are underway for a major project to create an administrative building. Additional land has been purchased for parking expansion.
In 2004, Reverend Scott revealed our vision for the church and a new church logo. New officers have been appointed to fill vacancies and training is recurring for all the leadership of the church. It is expected that the leaders of this church tithe, attend at least one of the teaching ministries of the church, and be committed to the teachings of Jesus Christ and incorporate the church vision into their ministries.
Pastor Scott licensed the church’s first female minister, Executive Minister Dr. Alice C. Price, and several other ministers including Cheryl Goliday, Latasha Milton and Craig Maddox. Other ministers that have come to serve include Tracy Watkins, Jason E. Evans, and Reverend Vincent Gaitor. Pastor Scott also ordained the church’s first female deacon, Cora Mae Hicks.
Some of the country’s most distinguished preachers of the gospel have graced Central’s pulpit due to Dr. Scott’s invitation. Among them have been Reverend Dr. Charles Booth, Reverend Dr. William Curtis, Reverend Dr. William J. Shaw, Reverend Dr. Wyatt Tee Walker, Reverend Dr. Joan S. Parrott, Dr. Bernadette Glover-Williams, Reverend Dr. Sir Walter Mack, Reverend Dr. Carolyn Knight, Reverend Jasmin "Jazz" Sculark, and Reverend George Waddles.
Central continues to prosper because of wonderful leadership. Central’s history is long and rich and we give all the Glory to God for His goodness and blessings.
