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Rose of Sharon History
In January of 2005 Reverend Carolyn Baskin-Bell became inspired by the Holy Spirit to plant a church in the Cerritos Norwalk community. After much prayer, she consulted with her pastor, Reverend Leslie R. White of Grant AME, Los Angeles, who previously supported a new church work in the St. Louis area. Reverend Baskin-Bell continued to pray, survey and consult until she experienced an overwhelming conviction to launch out on this divine adventure. The vision was also shared with and approved by Bishop John R. Bryant and the late Presiding Elder Howard S. Gloyd.

In the Fall of 2005, Reverend Bell met with Brother Merritt and Sister Billie Vincent, residents of Cerritos, who caught the vision and assisted in surveying the area for people and places to worship. On Sunday, June 17, 2006, the first official worship was held at the Marriot Hotel in Norwalk. The church was admitted to the Southern California Conference on Sunday, October 1, 2006. The founding members are: Brother Larry Bell; Carmena and Larissa Bell; Merritt Vincent; Billie Vincent and Sister Helen Ford.

The greatest challenge of the first year involved securing space for worship. Worship services convened at the Marriott Norwalk; Cerritos Sheraton; Norwalk Inn; Saddleback Inn; Kinkos Conference Center and Cerritos Park East. Rose of Sharon acknowledges that the church is not dependent upon four walls or brick and mortar but the church is wherever the people of God gather together in the Lord's name.

The following ministries have developed during the past six years: Andrew Ministry-Evangelism; Men's Ministry; Women's Ministry; Women's Missionary Society; Youth Ministry; Steward Ministry; Trustee Ministry; Church School; Prison Ministry; Outreach,Dance Ministry and Mid Week Spiritual Nourishment.

Since November 2007 to the present, services are held at the Saints of Value Center, a training center under the direction of Dr. Victoria Johnson. We are blessed to collaborate with the Food Ministry and community events.

Rose of Sharon AME represents God utilizing available servants to "Witness and Work for Expansion of the Gospel of Jesus Christ." All glory and praise to the Almighty God.