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OUR HISTORY
Founder:  Supt. H.L. Fountain
Mother Grace Fountain













Turin Church of God in Christ (now Solid Rock Fellowship) ministry is in its 62nd year.  During the 60+ years of ministry, numerous souls have been saved which is a testament to the Glory of God.  The Turin Church was organized and founded by the late Superintendent Henry L. Fountain, known affectionately as “Papa.” He came to the metro Atlanta area as a result of his job with the railroad. He was saved and held the office of a deacon at that time.  He relocated to Peachtree City, where he began mission work in the Senoia, Turin, and Blackjack communities.  His work on the railroad led to his meeting a man who would become a pivotal part of the Turin District—Alonzo Penson (later to be ordained Elder Alonzo Penson).  The two would meet at the railroad, and “Papa” would witness and teach the Word in such a way that led to Elder Alonzo Penson receiving Christ who then became a shining light which eventually led to the entire Penson family being saved.  Bishop James Hinsley of the Central Georgia Jurisdiction, aware of Deacon Fountain’s tremendous impact, ordained him as an Elder. Elder Fountain and Elder Alonzo started holding meetings in a tent between Deacon Penson’s and Elder Alonzo Penson’s home, and later services were held in Blackjack at a storefront owned by Mr. Grady Hill.  In 1961, land was purchased and services were then held at the old school building next to the building site of the new church.  Construction on the church began late in 1961.  The congregation officially entered the church building in March 1962.  Papa Fountain proved to be an excellent leader, and around 1963, he was appointed Superintendent of the Turin District by Bishop James Hinsley.  Supt. Fountain passed away in 2005, but had remained pastor of Turin Church of God in Christ until he became ill - when he then requested Elder Charlie J. Barkley be named as Pastor (nearly 30 years ago).

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OUR HISTORY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Former Pastor:  Pastor Charlie J. Barkley

Lady Karen Barkley

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Pastor Charlie J. Barkley assumed pastorship of Turin Church of God in Christ under the district leadership of Superintendent Woodrow Pinson and the Jurisdictional leadership of Bishop Norman O. Harper.  He served as the District Chairman and the Finance Treasurer of the Turin District. Under Pastor Barkley’s leadership, Turin Church of God in Christ paved its parking lot and acquired additional land.  In addition, Pastor Barkley led the church in extensive renovation including bricking the outside as well as renovating much of the inside.  A few projects included adding the steeple, upgrading the heating and air system, installing new floors in the kitchen and bathrooms.  In addition to enhancing the edifice, under Pastor Barkley’s direction, Turin C.O.G.I.C. added several new ministries two of which included the nursing home visitation ministry and married couples’ ministry.  The church embarked upon several community projects including distributing “bountiful baskets” to the elderly or those in need during the holidays and holding an annual can-a-thon.  Because Pastor Barkley was such a visionary leader, the church has realized several major milestones.

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Pastor Charlie J. Barkley was a dedicated pastor who cared deeply for all visitors and members.  He welcomed all people of all ages and backgrounds.

We were small enough to have a true family type atmosphere, yet large enough to do big things in ministry and services the Lord unconditionally.  He believed that when praises go up to God, blessings flow down to the people who trust in the Lord’s promises.  These promises provided inspiration and direction that enabled all who entered our doors to live a happier and blessed life regardless of the challenges they faced in everyday living.

A few things Pastor & Lady Karen Barkley did:  Bountiful Boxes (Thanksgiving & Christmas), youth outings and events (trips to skate park, King Center, zoo, Vacation Bible School; Family and Friends Day and Annual Valentine's Banquet, and much more.)  

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