Matilda Berry was inspired to begin sharing the gospel with the community in Pacoima in 1953. Word of mouth and distribution of tracts and other literature led to a small group of women requesting Bible studies. They met in each other’s homes until their growing numbers required a larger venue. One of these women, Myrtle Williams, invited Anderson Fields, a recent Oakwood College (now Oakwood University) graduate, to help shepherd the growing ministry, which later became Pacoima church. Under Pastor Reginald O. Robinson’s leadership (1997-2009), the congregation was encouraged to change the name to Valley Crossroads, which highlighted its geographical area at the crossing of five freeways as people travel north, south, east, and west.
The congregation celebrated 65 years of ministry this October, reflecting on the past and their renewed commitment to God leading their future.
Celebrations began Friday evening with music, prayer, and a message from former Valley Crossroads Pastor Royal Harrison (2010-2014), recent Greater Los Angeles Region director and current executive vice president of the Southern California Conference (SCC).
The church’s heart for the community and respect for history were reflected during the Sabbath service. A representative from Councilmember Monica Rodriguez’s office presented a certificate of gratitude, and a video from Easterseals Southern California, a nonprofit organization providing disability services, expressed thanks for their partnership with the church. The congregation surprised Richard Davis, a Valley Crossroads patriarch, with his certificate of baptism, which he hasn't received since his baptism in 1959.
“I’m so grateful that I’m still here,” Davis said. “The Lord has been good to me, my family, and this church. I never went anywhere after I joined this church, for I knew that’s where God wanted me to be. And through these years, I’m glad I’ve witnessed the growth of our church here.”
Kathleen V. Diaz, SCC Treasurer/CFO, shared a congratulatory letter, urging the church to always proclaim the message of God’s love and salvation. She presented the congregation with $2,500 for evangelism.
Guest speaker Trevor Kinlock, president of Allegheny East Conference, shared memories from his teenage years as a member of Valley Crossroads before delivering a message about claiming your identity in Christ.
“We are celebrating 65 whole years,” Roscoe Shields, current pastor, said during the celebration. “With normal circumstances, 65 years means you’re getting ready to retire, but 65 years for us is a launching pad for what God is getting ready to do here in this particular community.”
