Our History

In January 2000, on a chilly day, a gathering of eager individuals convened in response to an invitation extended by Reverend Dr. Edward P. Harding, Jr. Their destination was a classroom within Largo High School, situated in Largo, Maryland, where discussions regarding a new church development project were to take place. 

Among the attendees were a diverse array of individuals, including Elder Anita Moore Hackney, Elder Dr. Shirley Ulmer, Elder Dr. Wiline Carr, Arli Gordon, Charlie Johnson, Elder Edna Davis Brown, Mother Bowie, Mother Henderson, Elder Arnicia Downing, Deacon Allen Rica, Deacon Dozier, and the esteemed Mother Flora Rice, among others.

Each person present had their own motivations for attending, yet they shared a common belief: they viewed Pastor Harding as a divinely appointed shepherd, and they were eager to align themselves as sheep within his flock. 

We were “Walking by Faith, Not by Sight”. 

Following the inaugural gathering, a series of planning meetings ensued to lay the groundwork for the New Church Development project, fondly dubbed Prince George’s Community Church. However, amidst the preparations, a sobering revelation emerged: Pastor Harding's health had deteriorated, necessitating surgery. The diagnosis carried grave implications, possibly even terminal, yet for Pastor Harding, his loved ones, and the members of the New Church Development Committee, it presented yet another opportunity to entrust their paths to divine guidance. 

We were “Walking by Faith, Not by Sight”. 

In April 2000, Pastor Harding underwent major surgery, necessitating an extensive period of recovery. Despite this challenge, the decision was made to press on with PGCC Bible Study every Wednesday night. Without a physical church building, divine providence intervened, leading to our gatherings for Bible Study, Praise, Worship, and Fellowship at Christian Community Presbyterian Church. 

Our inaugural Bible Study took place in April 2000, with Pastor Harding leading the session. Approximately 50 individuals attended, and 32 charter members officially joined PGCC. Reverend Greg Purnell assumed the role of Youth Pastor, while Reverend Carolyn Byers served as the Choir Director, with the entire congregation forming the choir. 

We were “Walking by Faith, Not by Sight”. 

Prior to each Bible Study session, we cherished the opportunity for dinner and fellowship. Elder Arnicia Downing exemplified dedication by traversing the beltway from DC to procure and deliver dinner for our gatherings week after week. Additionally, others tirelessly made trips to SAM's Club to ensure ample supplies of cold drinks and essential paper products were available. 

Throughout Pastor Harding's surgeries and challenging recoveries, the PGCC New Church Development Group united in 24-hour prayer vigils, marked by fervent prayer and fasting. Amidst these trials, First Lady Karen faithfully attended Bible Study, providing updates on the Pastor's recovery to the growing congregation. Week after week, we shared meals, shed tears, and lifted our voices in prayer. 

Pastor Harding, in coordination with esteemed ministers such as Chaplain Admiral Barry Black, Father Tallentino, Reverend Lois Anthony, and Reverend John Graverly, ensured that each session was enriched with a much-needed Word from the Lord. As months passed, our Pastor continued to recuperate, while members of the congregation experienced the full spectrum of life's milestones and challenges – births, losses, new job opportunities, and unemployment. 

Despite the trials, our congregation continued to flourish, bolstered by unwavering faith in the Lord, which remained steadfast, unmovable, and unshaken. 

We were “Walking by Faith, Not by Sight”. 

After a span of 10 months, Pastor Harding returned, signaling the need to establish a permanent church home. On Palm Sunday, April 8, 2001, we held our inaugural service at Charles Herbert Flowers High School. Four years later, on May 3, 2005, during our Chartering service, our congregation had burgeoned to nearly 300 members. 

During this period, our ministries flourished, enabling us to meet the needs of both our congregation and the wider community. Welcoming Sister Deneen Worrell as our exceptional Administrator (now Rev. Deneen Worrell) and later Reverend Dr. Willie Thompson completing our team, Pastor Harding ensured PGCC operated at its fullest potential. 

From the outset, Pastor Harding emphasized the importance of having a skilled Minister of Music and a vibrant choir to usher in the Spirit of the Lord. Our Hospitality Ministry, led by Elder Charles Lawson, Elder Kim Barnes, Paul Jones, and Mr. Todd, consistently extended warmth and hospitality to all guests. Whether commemorating Women’s Day, our Church Anniversary, or our Annual Church Picnic, our dedicated team ensured every event was a success. 

Additionally, Elder Robyn Bouknight directed an anointed liturgical dance ministry, while Deacon Joanne and the Usher Board, followed by announcements from Sister Donna Blackman or Deacon Sharon Scott, provided a seamless transition into each service. With gratitude, we thanked God for yet another year of blessings and growth. 

On July 7, 2019, we were blessed with the transition to our new Church home in Temple Hills, Maryland. Among the dedicated individuals who contributed to making this dream a reality were our Session members, including Elder Brenda Zanders, Elder Dr. Wendy Dooley, Elder Ken Jeffries, Minister Raymond Reeder, and Deacon Ken McFadden. Their tireless efforts exemplified our commitment to walking by faith and not by sight. 

When Pastor’s health started to challenge him, Rev. Denise Anderson, Rev. Dr. Shawn Richmond and Elder Dr. Wendy Dooley brought Praise, Power and Preaching in the name of Jesus to the PGCC Pulpit. 

Pastor Harding transitioned on March 24, 2024. He has passed the baton and he expects us to run with it. This is not the end, but a new beginning. 

On April 1, 2024, Rev. Dr. Shawn P. Richmond accepted the position of our Pastor of Congregational Care. As a long-time member of PGCC, our Minister of Christian Education, our pulpit supply for nearly three years, our family, and friend, she is honored to serve. 

We continue to walk by faith and not by sight.