Celebrating 90 Years of Faith and Community
90th Anniversary Slidedeck
90th Anniversary Celebration
On Sunday, September 7, 2025, the Shenandoah Assembly of God Church (SAOG) celebrated 90 years of proclaiming Christ. What once was the vision of two women from St. Louis, Missouri, is now a thriving church with over 200 members. SAOG has been a spiritual beacon of its time, providing for the needs of its local community as well as welcoming in those who have strayed from the Lord. We are grateful for the mighty works God has done through our church, and look forward with excited anticipation to the wondrous things He will continue to do.
Our Journey Through the Decades
Explore the rich history of Shenandoah Assembly of God Church as we commemorate 90 years of spiritual growth and community service.
Year Unknown
Founding of the Church
Reverend Dorothy Brooks and Sister L. McDunn came to Shenandoah from St. Louis, Missouri. Immediately they began work at teh Pentecostal Mission on 7th Street. Leaving the mission, they began conducting prayer meetings in various homes before holding their first Sunday service in the home of John Sly with 13 people in attendance.
1934
Founding of the Church
Around the year 1934, they held their first Sunday evening service in the home of Herb Stanley. Eventually the group rented a store building on Front Street before renting a small church on Maryland Avenue. After several years, a piece of property was purchased at the corner of Maryland Avenue and 8th Street.
1950
First Expansion
Ground was broken for the new church under the direction of Reverend James F. Short.
Year Unknown
A Generous Gifting
The bell tower was given to the church by Reverend John Henderson. It was the bell that rang many times over from the top of Engine Number 553 that made its run between Shenandoah, VA, and Hagerstown, MD.
1985
50th Anniversary
The church celebrated half a century of faith with a grand service and community outreach programs.
TODAY
Modern Renovations
Due to the great blessing of growth within its congregation, the church built a larger and more up-to-date facility at 311 Comertown Road. The new property houses Phase One of building with plans for a larger church structure on the same property to be built at a later date. At that time, the current building will be home to the various ministries and outreach programs of the church.
Honoring Our Pillars
Acknowledgements
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Reverend Carter Dean, whose visionary leadership has guided our congregation for over two decades. His dedication to spiritual growth and community outreach has left an indelible mark on our church family.
We are deeply grateful for the faithful service of our board of directors. Their dedication, compassion, and commitment to meeting the spiritual and practical needs of our congregation have been a vital part of our ministry. We honor their leadership and thank them for the countless ways they have supported the church and its members with servant hearts.
We joyfully celebrate and honor the church family—both longtime members and cherished guests—who have been part of this journey. Your presence, prayers, and participation have shaped the life of this church and continue to fuel its mission. Whether you have walked with us for many years or are visiting for the first time, we are grateful for you. Together, we look forward to all that God has in store for the future.
Street Address
311 Comertown Road
Shenandoah, VA 22849
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 35
Shenandoah, VA 22849