It's very important to know your history and where you came from. There are so many experiences within the stories of our heritage that we can learn from, grow from, and use to better understand our present. Just as this applies to our individual lives, it also applies to institutions. Understanding the history and heritage of our churches should be a meaningful part of our current faith journey. In this vein, author Ulysses S. King, Jr., presents his father's work regarding the history of Christ Holy Sanctified Church. Fountainhead: The Beginning: A History of Christ Holy Sanctified Church by Bishop Ulysses S. King, Sr., revised and edited by Ulysses S. King, Jr., is a comprehensive narrative and history of the founding of this black classical Pentecostal church and denomination in the South. The story is told through three generations of the King family, from the late bishops Judge King and his son Ulysses S. King, Sr., to the third generation in Ulysses S. King, Jr., who was inspired to tell his father and grandfather's story and share their experience of faith, determination, and overcoming trials during the journey of creating the church, such as poverty, racism, and religious prejudice. Throughout the book, the author also leads readers to rethink the contemporary writings of the founding of the classical Pentecostal church from a singular view of a few sources, describes the major forces that have shaped the Black church during the past 100 years, and attempts to clear up some of the myths, misconceptions, misunderstandings, and misinformation about the where, when, and under whom Christ Holy Sanctified Church was founded. This meaningful work leaves readers with a much greater understanding and appreciation for the rich history behind this community of faith.
