Our Story.
Eighty years of faith, fellowship, and spiritual growth. One enduring commitment to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Eight Decades of Faith, Fellowship, and Spiritual Growth.
The story of The New Light Church is one of faith, perseverance, spiritual growth, and an enduring commitment to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Rooted in Faith.
Founded approximately 80 years ago as a Baptist congregation, the church was established upon the foundational principles of biblical preaching, prayer, Christian discipleship, and service to the community.
Through the faithfulness of its founders and succeeding generations, the church became a place where families worshiped, believers grew in their faith, and the Gospel was proclaimed.
Growing in the Spirit.
Under the pastoral leadership of Pastor Benedict A. Dorsey, the church entered a new season of spiritual development and ministry.
While honoring its Baptist heritage, the congregation began a transition toward a broader, non-denominational identity, embracing a strong Pentecostal/Holiness expression of worship, biblical teaching, and spiritual life.
This transition was not a rejection of the church's foundation, but a continuation of its commitment to following Jesus Christ and responding to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
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Honoring Our Past. Embracing Our Future.
Today, The New Light Church is a non-denominational congregation whose membership reflects a rich fellowship of believers from Baptist, Pentecostal, Holiness, and other Christian traditions.
Our history reminds us of where God has brought us from. Our faith challenges us to continue growing. And our vision calls us toward spiritual maturity—measuring up to the full stature of Jesus Christ.
We honor those who laid the foundation, celebrate those who have carried the work forward, and embrace the responsibility of preparing future generations to serve Christ.
Bishop Benedict A. Dorsey, D.Th.
A Life of Faith. A Legacy of Service. A Heart for God's People.
Bishop Benedict A. Dorsey is a preacher, teacher, author, and spiritual leader with more than four decades of pastoral experience. His ministry is distinguished by a commitment to biblical preaching, theological understanding, Spirit-filled worship, and the spiritual development of God's people.
A lifelong learner, Bishop Dorsey holds a Doctor of Theology (D.Th.), a Master of Theology, a Master of Fine Arts (MFA), and a bachelor's degree. He is also a Certified Christian Grief Counselor, reflecting his commitment to ministering to individuals and families during life's most difficult seasons.
Faithful Stewardship. Transformed Lives.
Under his pastoral leadership, The New Light Church transitioned from its historic Baptist roots into a non-denominational congregation with a strong Pentecostal/Holiness identity.
Through God's guidance and the faithfulness of the congregation, Bishop Dorsey led the ministry from a 75-seat storefront to a historic sanctuary seating more than 500 worshipers. Today, the church's property is fully paid for—a testimony to God's provision and faithful stewardship.
Beyond the pulpit, Bishop Dorsey is a devoted husband to his wife, Charlene. Together, they are blessed with four children, several grandchildren, and an extended family of cherished godchildren and bonus sons and daughters.
Measuring Up to the Full Stature of Jesus Christ.
His pastoral vision is grounded in Ephesians 4:13: “Measuring Up to the Full Stature of Jesus Christ.” He believes that the greatest evidence of successful ministry is not found in buildings or accomplishments, but in lives transformed by the power of Jesus Christ.
Central to his personal philosophy is a simple yet powerful mantra: “Be Kind!” For Bishop Dorsey, kindness is more than a courtesy; it is an expression of Christian character and a reflection of the love of Jesus Christ. He believes that even the simplest act of kindness can make a lasting difference in someone's life.