In the early 1970s, the Highway and Hedges Church took root on 1085 Clarkson Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, planting spiritual seeds in the Brooklyn community and the streets of New York City witnessed a remarkable movement of faith and compassion. On January 4, 1971, the New York Times chronicled the powerful ministry of Highway and Hedges Church, highlighting its transformative outreach to the underserved and forgotten. 

At the heart of this mission was a yellow school bus, boldly marked with a plea: "Lord, help us to help somebody." Each Sunday, men and women from shelters and hotels across the city—including those battling addiction and homelessness—were gently invited aboard by Reverend Willie Gilmore, Rev. Jones Wren, and Rev. Roy Price. What awaited them was more than transportation; it was a journey toward hope. 

The bus carried them to 1085 Clarkson Avenue in Brooklyn, a humble storefront adjacent to a kosher meat market, where the Highway and Hedges Church extended open arms and open hearts. There, each visitor received clothing, a hearty meal, and—most importantly—a place to belong. Services resounded with prayer, gospel singing, and soul-stirring sermons, often delivered by Rev. Willie Barlow, (1928-2016) a native of Georgia and former sharecropper turned passionate preacher, who poured life into his message: 

His wife, First Lady and Evangelist Doris Barlow, (1935-2016) and dedicated volunteers like Mrs. R. Light and Mrs. Ogletha Smith prepared warm meals ranging from baked and fried chicken, pig’s feet, potato salad, mac and cheese, and baked rolls to sweet potatoes—nourishment for body and soul. The church’s outreach program, funded by donations and a rummage store, even provided housing for those ready to leave the Bowery behind. 

Among the ushers helping newcomers find their seats were former Bowery residents—men like John Morgan, Gerald Griffin, and Jerry Sheffield—who served in the church’s rehabilitation ministry. Their presence was a living testament to the church’s ability to lift lives from despair into purpose. 

His nearly five decades of leadership marked a transformative era in our church’s journey—one shaped by growth, resilience, and grace.

Rev. Barlow was known not only for his eloquent preaching and deep theological grounding, but also for his gentle spirit and profound commitment to pastoral care. He walked with our members through seasons of joy and sorrow, always offering the comfort of Scripture and the warmth of genuine compassion.

Under his guidance, the church expanded its outreach ministries, enhanced its spiritual education programs, and deepened its culture of fellowship and service. His vision helped shape our identity—a community devoted to worship, discipleship, and the embodiment of God’s love.

Rev. Willie Barlow served our congregation for 46 years with unwavering dedication, spiritual insight, and a heart firmly anchored in the love of Christ. He was called home from the pulpit on November 6, 2016. He was 91 years old.