In 1952 the late Rev. Ruben Iglehart founded Dunbar Street Church of God in Christ, as a result of a tent revival on South 9th Street. Pastor Iglehart and the congregation purchased a small building on the corner of South 10th and Bend Street and remained there for six years. Due to the spiriual outpouring the church outgrew South 10th and Bend and purchased what is currently known as The Living Word COGIC located at 1005 Dunbar Avenue.

During the year of 1971, the late Supt. Walter Bailey took leadership. Under the leadership of Supt. Bailey, the church continued to thrive spiritually and numerically. Elder Bailey pastured Dunbar Street for thirteen years before the voice of the Lord directed him to Hearne, Texas.

Upon his departure the Lord placed Elder Gilbert Gillum, Jr. in leadership of the church. Being a man that is full of vision and faith, the church has grown to new heights. In 1988, the Lord gave Elder Gillum a vision to expand  Dunbar Street C.O.G.I.C.  to accomodate the overflow of souls being reached.  In June of 1990, the church broke ground to begin construction on the new edifice which was completed in August of 1991.  Once complete God gave Dunbar Street a new name... The Living Word C.O.G.I.C.