LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — The legacy of a longtime pastor and advocate for Lima and its youth will forever be remembered with a street that bears his name.
Friends, family, and city officials gathered to dedicate the honorary renaming of the 1800 block of South Main Street for Pastor Charles C.M. Manley. Manley passed away in 2022, but his impact was felt through his congregation at New Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church and the thousands of people he baptized during his many revivals. He also worked with local police to clean up troubled areas of the city and helped youth find direction under his guidance.
“There's not very many churches who do not have people who he baptized and who he helped to get into the church ministry. So, he was a rare man. He wasn't selfish. He always will help you whenever he can. I miss him,” said Pastor Sylvester Day, a friend of Manley.
Manley’s daughter, Patricia Carter, worked with Lima officials and City Engineer Ian Kohli to rename a portion of South Main Street in her father’s honor.
“It's been a long journey, and all I want to say is I thank God. First, Ian said he didn't understand what his part was. He was my faith partner, and he didn't even know it. So I want to thank the community and everyone that came out today and everyone that supported this,” said Patricia Manley-Carter.
Manley served as pastor of New Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church for 55 years.
