Gaffney’s African-American Female-Led Bible College Celebrates Its First Graduating Class

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by Becky Faulcon Kaniho

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The Peach Capital of South Carolina prepares to solidify its standing in higher educational history with the advent of City of Hope Bible College Gaffney (COHBCGaffney). Opening its doors to students in 2018, the institution celebrates its footing in the community. 

 

Excitement reigns high as this African-American female-led college proudly honors its first field of graduates. The commencement along with a gala and scholarship fundraiser starts at 7 p.m. Friday, December 16th at the Buford Street United Church Family Life Center. 

 

COHBC Gaffney was envisioned by its owner, Pastor M. Alice Littlejohn who also serves as Dean. In 1998, she accepted the call to preach with licensure and ordination soon following. She served as the Assistant Pastor and Interim Pastor of Antioch Baptist Church before the 2008 formation of Antioch Kingdom Building Ministries where she currently leads as the pastor.

 

Littlejohn stated, "The actual vision started in 1999 from the desire to learn more of God's Word, but I didn't have anyone to teach me." After enduring several embarrassing experiences stemming from the lack of understanding ministry etiquette, she decided it was time to create a shift in the old guard of ministry.

 

With that decision, COHBC Gaffney was officially birthed in 2015. "My passion is to see people grow in God's Word, so they don't have to experience embarrassments like I did, I never want anyone to go through that." Although not expounding on the details of the hurtful events, Littlejohn said, "If what I went through can change a person's ministry walk, then my assignment was worth it all." That shift will come to fruition as the first class of graduates move their tassels from right to left. 

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Consisting of a wide array of ages and backgrounds including a proud 81-year-old, business owners, ministers, pastors, and single parents, the candidates of the Class of 2022 will always share the commonality of being the first graduating class. Located at 300 Serene Drive, COHBCGaffney offers Bachelors, Associates, and Certificates in Biblical Studies. Beginning January 2023, the institution welcomes its first Masters class. 

 

COHBCGaffney is fully accredited through Transworld Accrediting Commission International and has affiliation with the International Bible Training Center. Although a separate entity, the Gaffney campus branched from COHBCGreer which is the main campus and is spearheaded by Bishop Dr. Allen Bruton. His divine guidance has been invaluable.

 

For additional information about COHBCGaffney, follow them on facebook or antiochkbm.com, or call (864) 487-7025. To support the scholarship ministry, mail donations or use Cashapp $akbmi. COHBCGaffney looks forward to your partnership.