Smithfield Baptist Church will be handing over its building to Smithfield’s daughter church, The Church of Abraham, this Sunday. Smithfield Baptist has existed in Gloucester County since being founded in 1880. The Church of Abraham had been located in a storefront in 17 Plaza, Ordinary.

Pastor Julian Joyner has recently been called to lead another church. Church member Martha Hughes, who joined the church when she was nine years old, 70 years ago, said that Joyner received a prophetic word from God that the congregation of Smithfield would continue under the leadership of Pastor Sheron Green of the Church of Abraham.

The changing of pastors will coincide with the changing of the building’s name. Smithfield Baptist will be renamed The Church of Abraham. Hughes said that the members of Smithfield voted to approve the change, and are excited to see it. She said they see it as a move of God.

TYLER BASS / GAZETTE-JOURNALSmithfield Baptist Church becomes the Church of Abraham after...