Question 1

1896 - 1906

Accepted Answer

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On a crisp autumn Sunday morning in 1896 in Orangeburg County, Liberty Township, a small group of Stalwart Baptist men and women gathered together under a "Brush Arbor" on a hill dotted with stately hickory nut trees. Although they had been holding meetings for a period of time, this was their first official meeting as an organized baptist church. Members unanimously agreed that their church would be named Hickory Hill Baptist Church. Willey Kennerly and Stella Sheppard, prosperous farmers in the community, donated the land on which the church was to be built.
 
Deeds to the property show that Willey Kennerly on January 24, 1896 and Stella Sheppard on November 21, 1896 each conveyed an acre of land to Furman Jamison, James Jamison, and James Hall, "Trustees of the Missionary Baptist Church and their successors.” On this land, the congregation built a brush arbor at the top of the hill. This was their church, the place they went for worship services, church conferences, Sunday school, "Big Meet'n," holiday programs, and social gatherings. By 1901, a building fund had been established.
 
Conference minutes and financial records from 1901 to 1906 revealed that members were faithful in their giving. Many "Rally Days" and other fund raising efforts enabled them to reach their goal. In 1905, under the energetic leadership of the Reverend Charles D. Salley, the congregation completed their first church building. Born in slavery, Rev. Salley was a very capable and forceful preacher and leader. Hickory Hill called him to be Pastor in 1898, and he served until January 17, 1905. As Pastor, Rev. Salley was supported by Deacon Furman J. Jamison, Trustees James Hall, James Jamison and other officers. His organizational ability and church management skills were evident in the orderly, well- planned church conferences and the church's active participation in the Beaver Creek Association, the Union, the Sunday School Convention and other religious organizations. *Rev. Salley also set high standards of moral conduct for all members.
 
Church Conference minutes show that the church did not hesitate to "withdraw the right hand of fellowship" or exclude a brother or sister found guilty of transgression - - adultery, getting drunk, gambling, disorderly conduct, mistreatment of another person, cursing, spousal abuse and many other offenses. In cases of conflict between husband and wife, three deacons and two members in good standing were authorized by the Church to resolve the conflict.
 
*After the members repented, appeared before the congregation and asked for forgiveness; they were lovingly restored to full membership and given the right hand of fellowship.  Rev. Salley resigned on January 17, 1905, after seven years as pastor.  His letter of resignation below explains why he resigned.
                                                                                             Neeses, SC
                                                                                              January 17, 1905 
To the Hickory Hill Baptist Church officers and members:
I received a letter from the clerk of the church stating that I was elected back as Pastor.  That shocked me.  I was called last year under an indefinite call, which means as long as I give satisfaction to the church.
I won't [serve] you all under no other call.
My salary was cut down from $75.00 to $65.00.  I am sorry to say I can't preach for it.  I have been with you all for seven years.  I have served you all the best I could.  In my humble way, I feel the good Lord has been pleased with my labor with you all.  When I came to you all, the church had seven members. She has grown to 105 members.
May God's blessing rest on you all. May peace and love attend you all this year.
Dear Church, I offer you all my resignation.  I hope this will be satisfactory to you all.
I remain your humble servant.
                                  C.D. Salley

Question 2

1906 - 1961

Accepted Answer

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Rev. Salley was succeeded by Reverend H.N. Van.  Recorded minutes from that era stated: “On the second Sunday in December, 1906, the church met and called Rev. H.N. Van as pastor for the ensuing year, 1906.” **
On February 11, 1906, Rev. Van installed church officers for the year: Clerk, R.L. Livingston; Sunday School Superintendent, J.M. Yon; Treasurer, S. Tyler; and Chorister and Sexton, J.S. Jamison. Deacons selected to serve in 1906 were the following: L.V. Dykes, F.J. Jamison, A.L. Gordon, L.D. Johnson, R.L. Livingston, S.S. Seabrook, and J.M. Yon.
There are no written records of Hickory Hill's continued growth and development during Rev. Van's pastorate, but according to oral accounts, the church continued to take on a new life.  By 1906, the membership had increased from seven in 1898, to 105 members in 1906. Rev. Van was followed by several devout, effective ministers, each of whom contributed to the growth of the church.  They include: Rev. Johnson, Rev. Corbitt, and Rev. Turner.  Hickory Hill continued to flourish until the year 1917 when a devastating storm destroyed the church that the congregation had worked so hard and so long to build.
Before long, however, the rebuilding began.  After years of hard work, sacrifice and disappointments, the church, a magnificent edifice with stained glass windows all around it, a vestibule and a large bell tower, stately columns and other grand appointments, was completed.  Men sat on the right side of the church and women sat on the left side.  The beautiful church had a seating capacity of five hundred, and during “Big Meet'n,” every seat was filled.  Rev. Turner, Rev. McPherson, Rev. John Wright and Rev. W.B. Coleman served during the building of the new church. The officers serving during this time were Deacon Jake Barnes, Trustees James Hall, Furman Jamison, and James Jamison.
 Members often reminisced about the wonderful times they spent inside and underneath the church.  The space beneath the church was so high, that children could play underneath.  Some remember getting a "whipping" for getting their clothes dirty before church service began.  They also remember the fish fry’s, and holiday programs, especially Children's Day when children showcased their speaking and singing talents. Once again, the congregation was distraught when they learned that their second church would have to be torn down.  Due to hard times, the congregation could not maintain the repairs that were needed for such a large church.  As time passed, the church deteriorated to the point that it was no longer safe for occupancy.
 During this period of transition and rebuilding, Hickory Hill was blessed to have a strong and anointed man of God in the person of Reverend W.B. Coleman.  Rev. Coleman who was a native of North Augusta, South Carolina became pastor in 1929.  Under his leadership, the third church was completed.  It should also be noted that, Rev Coleman holds the distinct honor of being the longest serving pastor in the history of Hickory Hill Baptist Church. He faithfully and dutifully served the congregation of Hickory Hill for thirty-three years (1929-1962).  After thirty-three years as pastor, he resigned because of his declining health.  Deacon Louie Tyler was one of the deacons and Sister Marie Gleaton was the Church Clerk who served faithfully during Rev. Coleman’s tenure. 
 After the departure of Rev. Coleman, Hickory Hill was blessed to have Rev. Lemuel M. Jamison, a son of the house, serve faithfully and capably for two years as Supply Pastor.*
 *Another important observation that should be made about Hickory Hill during its early and formative years is that the responsibility of selecting a pastor rested with the deacons/deacon board, rather than the congregation.  It was not until decades later that the process changed and a “Search Committee” was given that responsibility with the congregation voting on the Committee’s selection.

Question 3

1962 - 1997

Accepted Answer

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In 1962, Hickory Hill was once again blessed with an anointed man of God.  Reverend Lee Malcom Tyler accepted the call to become pastor of Hickory Hill.  Rev. Tyler exhibited fine qualities of leadership and was a very effective preacher.  Under his pastorate, the church was renovated; five Sunday school classrooms and two indoor restrooms were added.  Prior to the addition of the indoor restrooms, members had to walk outside and down a hill to the rear of the church to use the restroom.  The old restroom remains as a part of the original structure of the church.  [It’s located directly under the current left choir stand in the church].  
During Rev. Tyler's pastorate, women assumed more prominent roles in church leadership. Prior to that time, men held all church offices. In 1965, Mrs. Ethel Floyd, daughter of Ransom Livingston, one of the founding members of Hickory Hill, assumed the position of Clerk.  Since that time, women have served in a variety of positions, including the trustees, Sunday School superintendent, and sexton.   Working beside and in support of the men and the church, women continue to serve admirably and responsibly to carry out the Mission of the Church.  
Another noteworthy change that occurred during Rev. Tyler’s tenure is that Hickory Hill went from having service one Sunday a month to having service two Sunday’s a month.  Service was held on the second and fourth Sunday’s every month. After thirteen years of commendable service, Rev. Tyler resigned as pastor.  Contributing to the success of his pastorate, were Deacon Walter B. Livingston, Chairman; Trustee Chair, Theodore Gordon and other officers.
  In 1973, Reverend Leon Stephenson was called as pastor of Hickory Hill Baptist Church. Rev. Stephenson was not only a strong leader, but he was a church builder. Under his leadership the church added a much need fellowship hall, a church library, a number of Sunday school classrooms and additional storage space.  The physical appearance of the church was transformed.
Deacon Walter Livingston was serving as chairman when the decision was made to add additional Sunday school rooms and a fellowship hall.  Rev. Stephenson was also a licensed General Building Contractor and was contracted to make these additions to the church. There were mixed emotions about adding the additional wing because of the high water grade level and steep hill. The concerns were more about the fellowship hall on the lower level. Nevertheless, the church decided to move forward.  Once the wing was completed, it was a beautiful addition to the Church. The rear restrooms were expanded.  Two of the original Sunday school classrooms were converted to a Christian Education office and the Pastor’s office. The old pastor’s office and restroom were eventually converted to a choir robe room and storage room. 
At the time that Rev. Stephenson served as pastor, church services were still being held on 2nd and 4th Sundays.  On those Sundays, the members filled the pews and choir stands. Members often arrived early to ensure they would get a good seat. Hickory Hill was known throughout the Neeses and Norway communities for its good preaching and singing. The choir singing was very uplifting.  At that time, Sister Joanne Johnson was the musician for the Young Adult Choir and Dr. Verdis McMichael was the Director/Organist for the Youth and Senior Choirs.  
 Because music is such an integral part of the worship service, the Young Adult Choir’s spirit-filled selections helped to set the atmosphere and prepare the Pastor and the congregation for the spoken word.  When all hearts were on one accord, it made preaching so much easier for the pastor. The Senior Choir was anointed as well. Mrs. Rosebud Jamison was one of the many ‘spirit-filled’ soloists on that choir.  Rev. Stephenson had a style of preaching that really captured the congregation’s attention and moved them spiritually.
The first Family and Friend’s Day celebration was instituted during Rev. Stephenson’s administration.  Deacon James Johnson was the coordinator for this event.  It was a fun filled activity with family and friends enjoying games, barbecuing, and side dishes prepared by the ushers.  After serving as Pastor from 1973 – 1984, Rev. Stephenson tendered his letter of resignation to the church on the Sunday that he delivered his final sermon in Hickory Hill.  After delivering his farewell sermon one of the most memorable sermons of his pastorate, he walked down out of the pulpit and handed Deacon Livingston his resignation. 
Among the deacons, trustees, and officers serving at the time that Rev. Stephenson was pastor, were Deacon Walter B. Livingston, Chair; Trustee Theodore Gordon, Chair; and Sister Adele Davis, Church Clerk.
   In 1984 Reverend Mark A. Robinson became the pastor of Hickory Hill.  Under Rev. Robinson’s leadership, Hickory Hill transitioned from worship service twice a month (2nd & 4th Sundays) to four Sundays a month on a trial basis.*  Because members were not accustomed to attending church every Sunday, the church was almost empty on 1st and 3rd Sundays.  There were some uncertainties as to whether the church would be able to afford to pay a pastor’s salary every Sunday. After a period of time and with much prayer and faith, attendance eventually increased on the 1st and 3rd Sundays and the church leadership and members agreed to permanently have worship service four Sunday’s a month.  [Although times change and seasons change, people can change, but slowly.]   [We are creatures of habit and it’s amusing that in these current times, more members still attend church worship services on the founding original 2nd and 4th Sundays than any other Sunday.] 
During Rev. Robinson’s tenure, the church continued to make improvements.  The church installed central heating and air conditioning in Sunday school classrooms and in the Fellowship Hall. The lighting fixtures were replaced in the sanctuary, and sidewalks were built around the front and sides of the church.  Also in 1985, Mr. C.B. Bonnette, Jr. gave Hickory Hill an acre of land. All of these improvements enhanced the beauty and comfort of the church.  Dr. Verdis McMichael, who was over Christian Education at the time,  ensured the church maximized the Sunday School/Christian Education classrooms by facilitating 'After School Tutorial Sessions' for the youth as well as establishing Hickory Hill as an Extension of the Morris College School of Religion.
This was quite an accomplishment for the Church and Dr. McMichael. Thanks to Dr. McMichael, Hickory Hill became well known throughout the Beaver Creek Association and beyond for its affiliation with the Morris College School of Religion.  After serving Hickory Hill for seven productive years, adding numerous improvements to the church and ministry, Rev. Robinson resigned in 1991 as pastor of Hickory Hill Baptist Church.  Among the deacons and trustees serving during Rev. Robinson tenure, were Deacon, Chairman Matthew Hartwell, Trustee Chair, Samuel Jamison, Church Clerk Adele Davis who was succeeded by Mrs. Lovell P. Brothers.
Reverend Lawrence T. David was welcomed as Pastor of Hickory Hill on Sunday, March 7, 1993.   Pastor David was the first pastor of Hickory Hill to be selected by a “Search Committee” and voted on by the congregation. (Prior to that the deacons selected the pastor without input from the congregation.)  In a tribute to Pastor David, Dr. Verdis McMichael said it best; “What a beautiful, wonderful day that we experienced in Hickory Hill.  We had waited so long.   Pastor David came in the nick of time.  He came at just the right or critical moment for Hickory Hill. Our Pastor came in like a mighty rushing wind, and he brought with him a beautiful sunshine after the rain (his smile that glowed, demanded a smile in return).  He brought also a purpose.He brought with him a goal (outlining all the duties and responsibilities of every church member).  He knew it would take time to accomplish all the tasks he had laid out to do – the period in which work remained done.  He was working against time with an imminent time limit.”
  During Pastor David’s tenure, the church installed stained glass windows and improved the overall program of the church. He implemented Children’s Church led by Sister Leois Jamison. Then was succeeded by Sister Lovell P. Brothers and Sister Tracey Smith years later; he also implemented the Nursery Ministry and educated Deaconesses about the Christian Calendar Seasons and how the Church should observe/acknowledge those seasons. We were also blessed with two additional Deacons.  Brother Charles E. Jamison and Brother Clyde Yon were ordained as deacons of Hickory Hill Baptist Church. 
Pastor David wasn’t the kind of preacher that took 30 – 45 minutes to give a word from God. His sermons were succinct.  He would reference the scripture that supported his sermon topic and did what some would call ‘free flowed.’  Within 15 – 20 minutes the soul was fed and he was opening the doors of the church for prayer and new Christ believers.  He had so many sayings that resonated with the members.  One such saying was “Stand up and be seen, Speak up and be heard, Sit down and be appreciated.”  Another favorite saying or expression that he used often was that the word was like Maxwell house coffee, “It’s good to the last drop.”  He often used a disclaimer that “This ain’t Burger King; you can’t have it your way.”  One of his favorite scriptures was Romans 12:2.  “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.”
 While serving as pastor of Hickory Hill Pastor David became ill.  However, like a good shepherd that watches over his flock, Pastor David didn’t leave the congregation without guidance and someone that could lead the church spiritually. During his absence due to illness he asked Reverend. Frank Wood, to serve in his absence.  From November 1995-1997, Rev. Frank Wood very ably served as Interim (Supply) Pastor of Hickory Hill during Rev. David's illness and subsequent death in November 1995.
The church was stable and members’ attendance didn’t waiver during this time.  Many thought Rev. Wood would inevitably become the next Pastor of Hickory Hill, but it wasn’t in God’s Plan.  He was only there to serve for a purpose, and for a season.  With the passing of Pastor David and Rev. Wood starting his own ministry, the Church had a minor setback.  Many of the younger adults left the church. Some returned over time, but many didn’t.  At Hickory Hill, we believed Romans 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”
 There were laborers in the vineyard, and with God’s loving hand he sheltered us through the storm. Among the officers serving during this time were Deacon Matthew Hartwell, Trustee Marion Brothers, Church Clerk Lovell Brothers and other officers.

Question 4

1997 - 2018

Accepted Answer

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In May, 1997, Reverend Eddie Jones was called as Pastor.  Under his leadership this church continued to grow.  Mrs. Gladys Fanning gave acres of land to Hickory Hill.  Her property was adjoined to Hickory Hill, and she said, “I just want this church to have it."  This was in November 2001. 
At the same time "Speedy" Davis was kind enough to clear the ground for the Church.  Sadly, however, the Church was shocked and saddened to learn that Mrs. Fanning passed the next month.  Upon her passing, it was comforting to the congregation to know that the Church had properly responded to the gift of land that she made to the Church.  She knew how grateful the Church was to her.  It made Mrs. Fanning happy to see how much we appreciated what she had done for us. 
 Continuing under Pastor Jones's leadership, the church took on a more beautiful appearance with the landscaping of the church yard and other beautifications.  A vestibule was added to the church, which included a beautiful lobby, a restroom for "ladies" and "gentlemen," and a media/sound technician room.  A computer was purchased along with a financial/membership software application. To add to the comfort of the sanctuary, cushioned pews were installed. 
The Hickory Hill Ushers under the leadership of Sister Bertha Mitchell worked diligently to support all efforts of improvement for the Church.  We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the Usher Board led by Sister Bertha Mitchell.  Whenever there was a project to be completed Sister Mitchell and the Ushers were supportive financially as well as in other ways, be it food preparation or beautifying the church grounds.    The Hickory Hill Ushers prepared and served many delicious meals for all events at the church.  This includes revivals, Family & Friends Day, banquets and funerals.  When the Fellowship Hall began to have leaks and water build-up, and it became evident that a new fellowship hall was the resolution, the Ushers immediately launched a fundraising campaign for a new building.  They were committed and worked tirelessly to raise funds.  The funds raised by the Ushers under Sister Mitchell’s leadership remain earmarked for a new fellowship hall.
As Pastor Jones continued to remain true to his calling, he conducted Bible Study each Wednesday from seven to eight o'clock p.m.  He was elected to the position of Moderator of the Beaver Creek Church Union, also Vice Moderator of the Beaver Creek Baptist E&M Association.  In 2003 Rev. Jones was elected to serve as chairman of the UNCF at Claflin University where they sponsored their first Prayer Breakfast which was a record breaking success. As time passed, membership declined as a result of some unrest in the church. There wasn’t clarity about the spiritual growth or the mission of the church. The Pastor, Deacons and Ministry Heads weren’t on one accord.  Several attempts were made to reconcile for the greater good of the church, but unfortunately during a Church Conference in 2005, Rev. Jones consensually resigned as Pastor of Hickory Hill Baptist Church.  Some of the officers who served and supported the Church during Pastor Jones’ ministry were Deacon Matthew Hartwell, Trustee Marion Brothers, and Church Clerk Lovell P. Brothers.  While the search for a pastor took place, Hickory Hill was blessed to have in the interim Rev. Saunders Walker, Jr to serve as Supply Pastor.
In March of 2006, Reverend Freddie Smith, Jr., accepted the call to serve as Pastor of Hickory Hill Baptist Church.  In addition to his family, Pastor Smith brought with him a love for Christ of course, but a love for people, a spirit of service, and the gift of singing and preaching.  Rev. Smith worked diligently to build upon the legacy of service, family, and community that have been the trademark of Hickory Hill for many-many decades.  
He worked with the various ministries of the Church to promote the Church Mission: "To be accountable to God through the study and application of the word, thereby, making us successful citizens of the kingdom of God." Rev. Smith took pleasure and interest in the spiritual and educational wellbeing of all His members, but he was especially concerned about the spiritual growth of the Youth.  During his tenure, he baptized as many as eight youth on Baptism Sunday.  He was effective in drawing the youth of Hickory Hill to Christ.
The Church, as a whole, grew and progressed in many areas, under the guidance and leadership of Rev. Smith. New ministries were born. The Hickory Hill Praise Dance Ministry was one of those ministries.  Marlena Brothers organized the first group of praise dancers.   When Marlena could no longer serve as advisor for the praise dancers, First Lady Tracey Smith became advisor and choreographer.  Youth Sunday and Children’s Church were major aspects of Pastor Smith’s ministry.  This was another way to get the youth more involved and active in church service, but also a way to teach them proper church etiquette. Through much prayer and thanksgiving, the Church successfully undertook and completed many projects to enhance the appearance of the building.  In the rear of the Church, restrooms for females and males were modernized.  Those renovations included painting and replacing carpeting, replacing and repairing doors, windows and locks as well as renovating the Library/Resource Center to add computers as well as a Payroll software application.
Additionally, the Pastor's study and restroom were renovated.  The roof was replaced, and the steeple was repaired.  There were numerous attempts to make improvements to the fellowship hall. All of the improvements and additions to Hickory Hill under the leadership of Rev. Smith were "all to the glory of God" and a testament to how much can be accomplished when the church works together for the common good.
 In keeping with the church’s mission, Rev. Smith conducted Bible Study on Wednesday evenings.  He incorporated technology into his teaching style to make Bible Study more interesting and interactive. Sometimes videos and book studies were incorporated into the lessons. Wednesday evening Bible Study for the Youth was encouraged and initiated during Pastor Smith’s ministry.  Sister Ruby Hickson, was the lead teacher of the youth bible study.  She was assisted by Sister Smith and Emilyn Brown.    The use of technology became more expansive during Pastor Smith’s tenure; Pastor Smith and Trustee Elliott B. Johnson made sure the Church kept up with the latest technology.  Overall, more and more media resources were used. 
Rev. Smith's service extended beyond these physical walls; Rev. Smith had actively represented Hickory Hill as a member of the Beaver Creek Baptist Educational and Missionary Association Executive Board.  In addition to serving on the Executive Board of the Association, he had ably served as the Moderator of the Sunday School Union and prior to that, Vice Moderator.
Growth is vital to a successful ministry and Rev. Smith worked faithfully and diligently to achieve that goal.  One of the accomplishments that Rev. Smith was proudest of was the ordination of two of the "Sons of the House."  On October 13, 2013, Minister Darryl Waymyers and Minister Charles O. Snyder, IV were ordained through the Beaver Creek Association. 
Rev. Darryl E. Waymyers is now the Pastor of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Cope, South Carolina and Rev. Charles O. Snyder, IV is a Bible Teacher at Sunny Vista Church of God in North, South Carolina.  Pastor Smith was also proud of the Deacon's Ministry growth.  Brother Todd M. Jamison was ordained as a Deacon of Hickory Hill Baptist Church on April 9, 2017.  Accomplishments such as these are a testament to a growing Church.  God blessed Hickory Hill with a committed and dedicated leader in Rev. Freddie Smith, Jr. However, over time, seasons change, and circumstances change.    
Many refer to the relationship between a pastor and church as a marriage. During a pastor’s installation, a pledge/oath is made both between the Pastor and Church Congregation.  They celebrate and rejoice when things are jubilant and pray for guidance and strength when the winds of change become unsustainable. Unfortunately, the relationship between the pastor and deacons was irreconcilable. Despite efforts to work through their grievances, Rev. Smith resigned on March 19, 2017 as pastor of Hickory Hill Baptist Church. 
Among the officers serving during this time were Deacon Charles E. Jamison, Trustee Elliott B. Johnson and Church Clerk Lovell Brothers and other officers.  After Pastor Smith’s departure, Rev. Isaac Odom served in the interim as Supply Pastor.  On occasion when Rev. Odom was unable to come, Rev. Kenneth Waldo served.

Question 5

2018 - Present

Accepted Answer

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In January of 2019, the "charge" was given to Reverend Rickey James, who accepted the call to serve as Pastor of Hickory Hill.   On March 17, 2019 Pastor James was installed as the 8th pastor to serve Hickory Hill since 1929.  Pastor James was “no stranger” to the church community.  He grew up in Norway, SC and was a member of Bushy Pond Baptist Church. He is currently a member of St. Paul Baptist Church in Orangeburg.  He also served as Treasurer of the Beaver Creek Association for over twenty years.   Pastor James came to Hickory Hill at a time when the Church needed healing and reconciliation.  He approached his ministry, not as a challenge, but rather as a calling from God.  He felt that he was put in this place at this time for a reason, and that was God’s plan not man’s plan.  In his first meeting with the ministry heads, Pastor James discussed his vision for Hickory within the context of God’s plan. One of his first goals was to complete the Constitution and By-Laws for the church which had been a work in progress for decades.  Major progress had been made on the Constitution and By-Laws under the leadership of Pastor David and Pastor Smith, but the document was finally completed and shared with the members under Pastor James. 
Pastor James incorporated praise and worship led by “The Praise Team” to the worship service.  The Youth Choir became the designated choir to perform on the 3rd Sunday, Youth Sunday.   This gave more prominence to the role of the youth in worship service.
In keeping with Pastor James’ vision for growth with focus on the youth, he established the Youth Academy.  The Youth Academy is a program designed for youth.  The basic concept is that on the 5th Sundays a program would be held to allow youth to worship and praise God outside of the boundaries of traditional church service, by using various forms of artistic expression, such as song, dance, speeches, drama, etc.
All to the glory of God.  Sister Cammie Brailey served initially as the Youth Academy Coordinator.  These are some of the accomplishments that were achieved during Pastor James first year at Hickory Hill.  Additionally, the use of technology has been expanded under the leadership of Pastor James.  Easy Tithe online giving was launched.  This has proven to be an effective alternative to giving, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 Pandemic. 
The Bridge Ministry and Media Ministry have also proved to be invaluable for “such a time as this.”   Just around the time of Pastor James’ first anniversary with Hickory Hill, Hickory Hill along with the rest of the world was faced with a pandemic unlike anything that had been witnessed before.  The Covid-19 virus caused major shutdowns throughout the United States, including churches and schools.  On March 15, 2020, was Hickory Hill’s in person church service for the year. After that, services went virtual due to the pandemic.
This could have been devastating for a new pastor who had been with his congregation for just a year.  That was not the case for Pastor James and the deacons and leadership of Hickory Hill.  Like a good shepherd, Pastor James put the health and well-being of his members first.  The doors of Hickory Hill may have been closed on March 15 for in church service, but God’s word is still going forth.  Thanks to Pastor James’ leadership and the members of the Bridge and Media Ministries, the members and friends of Hickory Hill continue to enjoy Sunday School, Sunday morning worship and praise, and Bible Study by way of zoom and facebook.  Likewise, the church business has not gone undone.  Ministry Head meetings have been held; the Church Conference has been held; various ministries have held meetings, and the Anniversary Committee has held regular meetings, all by zoom or tele-conference.
Pastor James, a mighty prayer warrior, has been faithful and diligent to his calling as Pastor of Hickory Hill Baptist Church.  Officers serving this ministry include:  Deacon Charles E. Jamison, Chairman; Trustee Elliott B. Johnson, who is succeeded by Trustee Valarie (Johnson) Watson (the 1st female chair of the trustees), and Church Clerk, Sister Lovell Brothers along with the other deacons and trustees.