Church History

Pastor Beard moved to Nashville, TN, in December 1990 and began a Bible study in his small condominium. He invited a few friends over, luring them with delectable meals of Cajun cuisine and afterward captivating discussions about God. In a short period of time, the Bible study grew rapidly. He discovered that so many just wanted to learn the Bible without the trappings of “church as usual.” From that very humble beginning he moved to a local church that was gracious enough to share space with him. The Living Word Community Church was birthed November 1994 under Bishop Ralph Houston with three members.

After meeting at a church for a year followed by another year at a local high school, Living Word Community Church purchased a 10,000 square-foot tin building. It was there the congregation experienced phenomenal growth. In four years, Living Word Community Church grew from about 80 members to about 600. Years later, the church relocated to 409 Franklin Road in the heart of beautiful Brentwood, TN. This 100,000 square-feet facility housed 47 classrooms, a commercial kitchen and full gymnasium and about 1400 members and growing. Awaiting the move to their final church home in Antioch, TN, in February 2006 the church moved the worship services and administrative offices to 5253 Granny White Pike in Nashville.