Our History 

Oakland Church of God first started in 1895 with a few families in a building known as the Kels Shumaker Store room. The first message was brought to Distant, Pennsylvania in a revival meeting held by Rev. I. S.  McCoy and Rev. Bill Gallagher. Brother McCoy labored long and faithfully in Western Pennsylvania encouraging this new church plant, developing the church we know today.

Church from 1895 to 1904

Church from 1904 to 1968

John L. Williams became the first pastor while here in 1904. Their stay was short, leaving in 1906. The local elders at this time continued to have services with visiting evangelists for the next 2 years. From this small seed of faith, this faithful pastor, and the ever faithful elders of the new church, there exists a wonderful church in Distant, Pennsylvania named the Oakland Church of God.

During the years of 1968-1982, a new church building was constructed with new additions. The church transitioned through many phases of growth during this time. 

Church from 1968 to 1982

Church from 1982 to present

Since those early days, 14 ministers including the current pastor, Jimmy Swogger, have lead our church to greater heights of serving the local community, Western Pennsylvania, and the world.

The church growth continues as a new building campaign has been started to replace the current sanctuary and offices. The church is growing to reach more families and provide more opportunities within the church and for the community. A new 600-800 seat sanctuary with state of the art audio and visual capabilities, along with a meeting area, snack shop area, information area, new office spaces, a green room, and new restrooms is under way with a building campaign.

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Future Church