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Longtime Church Moving, But Not Far

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: June 21, 2008

TAMPA - The Rev. James Givins is sentimental about the 99-year-old church he is leaving behind.

The congregation welcomed him and his family about three years ago to Mount Olive African Methodist Episcopal Church, 1747 W. LaSalle St.

It is the first Tampa church he has led.

But he is also looking forward to moving in to the new 8,000-square-foot church and sanctuary, 1920 W. LaSalle St.

The 400-member church is holding its cornerstone celebration at 2 p.m. today and will dedicate the new sanctuary at 4 p.m. Sunday.

"I am happy to be on this side," said Givins, sitting in the new sanctuary this week as workers applied finishing touches. "We were cramped because of the square footage. It the old church can't be more than 3,000."

The new location is a striking building painted in jade, olive and ivory.

It has a large, white steeple with a cross.

The 450-seat sanctuary has a chandelier, cushioned pews, carpeting, an oak pulpit and altar, and a choir loft at the rear.

The building, which cost an estimated $1.5 million, also has a pastor's office, Communion preparation room, classrooms and conference rooms.

At the rear are the fellowship hall and a commercial kitchen.

The old sanctuary's future is uncertain.
Jose Patino Girona

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