NewLife Community United Holy Church

NewLife Community United Holy Church stands as a beacon of faith in the community of Pie Corner, St. Lucy in the beautiful island of Barbados. Rooted in prayer, centered on Christ, and committed to community care, we are a circle of love—open and ready to receive all whom God will send. Formerly known as Bennett’s Temple United Holy Church, our congregation is richly diverse, welcoming individuals of all ages and backgrounds who desire to grow in faith, experience God’s love, and invite Jesus into their hearts.

The origins of Bennett’s Temple can be traced back to 1949 under the name Pie Corner Pentecostal. Some early accounts reach even further into the 1940s, when services began humbly in the homes of Sister Harper and Mother Butcher in Coconut Hall, St. Lucy. The congregation later met at Mother Leslie’s home in Pie Corner under the leadership of Bishop Allan Beckles and Pastor Alfred, gathering primarily elderly members who shared a deep passion for worship.

As the church grew, a small wooden structure was erected to accommodate the members transitioning from Mother Leslie’s home. Despite its size, this vibrant congregation drew the attention of local youth, who gathered around the windows to witness the powerful worship of the saints. In the late 1950s, Mother Bennett of the United Holy Church of America (USA), accompanied by Bishop Harry Gentiles, visited the fellowship. During this visit, she purchased the land on which the church now stands and gifted it to the congregation. In 1958, the building was relocated to this site, and the church was renamed Bennett’s Temple in her honor.

Throughout the years, the church was shepherded by faithful leaders including Brother St. Claire Boyce, Pastor Taylor, Brother Alvin Phillips, Pastor Kenneth Harewood, Evangelist Shirley Boyce, Bishop St. Clair Howell, Elder York Lewis, Pastor Lenora Boyce, and Elder Ronald Odle. Under Elder Odle’s leadership, the congregation and the wider Pie Corner community witnessed the construction of a new sanctuary, which was joyfully dedicated in 2014.

Now over 70 years old, the church continues to stand by the grace and favor of God. Over the decades, countless lives have been touched, transformed, and redirected through the ministry. On August 27th, 2017, leadership transitioned from Elder Ronald Odle to Elder Rico Griffith, a visionary Senior Pastor, along with his wife, Minister Karin Griffith.

Together, they carry the ministry into a dynamic new era marked by revival, renewed passion, and a deep commitment to reaching the community with the gospel expressed through love and care.

In 2024, Bennett’s Temple embraced a new identity and a renewed mission, adopting the name NewLife Community United Holy Church—a reflection of who we are and the future we joyfully anticipate.