OUR FOUNDERS: HOW IT ALL BEGAN

To everything there is a season,

A time for every purpose under heaven:

A time [a]to be born,

And a time to die;

A time to plant,

And a time to pluck what is planted;

A time to kill,

And a time to heal;

A time to break down,

And a time to build up;

Ecclesiastes 3:1-3

The late Pastor Isiah Claytor and Pastor Victoria Claytor are the proud founders of the Rock City Church International. Biblically and historically, God has used generation after generation to herald the message of this glorious gospel. The Claytor family has been charged like generations before them to tell the story.  

As life would have it, “June-Boy”, the brother-in-law of Pastor Claytor was the family’s spiritual ROCK.  Even on his death bed, June-Boy was found imparting strength, wisdom, and intercession.  There was no physical weakness that would change his strong faith. This inspiring portrait is how Pastor Claytor described him in remarks given during his celebration of life. 

During this critical time, God began to lay before Pastor Isiah Claytor his next steps. “Build me a church where the weak could become strong through the revelation of Jesus Christ.” After confirmation of this word during a retreat, in August of 1993, the Rock City Church was born. 

With only six people participating in Wednesday night Bible Studies, the Claytors begin the faithful work of the ministry. Since then, Rock City Church International (RCCI) has grown to be a world-wide ministry, operating with partners in European and African countries. 

In 2020, our Sovereign Lord saluted our founder with his crown and he was given eternal rest on December 14, 2020. Much like His call to Pastor Claytor from June-Boy’s impartation, God had already chosen his next leader. Not knowing what was ahead, Pastor Deonta A. Riley, Sr. turned over his church at the Lord’s leading to wait to hear what God would say. Pastor Riley would receive a call from RCCI to come lead them onward.

No one could write this story better than God… and He’s not done.  To our founders, we will forever honor you!