A native of Bessemer, Rev. George R. Blanks is the founder and pastor of the Perfecting Reconciliation Church International. Opened in 2014, the church is located in the former First Presbyterian Church on the corner of 18th Street and 3rd Avenue, North in downtown Bessemer.
Everybody is made welcome at the church. A friendly, outgoing personality, he is committed to making a difference in the lives of others, especially in Bessemer. Pastor Blanks is proud of his hometown. He is passionate about the church and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. An engaging minister, Pastor Blanks proudly proclaims, “Christ is the head of the church.” His hopes and dreams for the church and the city are great.
Tell me about the church?
Pastor Blanks: The Lord sent me back to Bessemer from Detroit in 2014 for the purpose of starting a church in Bessemer. People might talk bad about Bessemer. God does not. He loves Bessemer. The church on earth is the Father’s house.
How do you grow a church?
Pastor Blanks: If you want the church to grow there are three ways: Invite, Bring and Compel, found in Luke 14: 15-23.
What gives you joy?
Pastor Blanks: Seeing people’s lives change as they seek and serve the Lord.
What is the mission of Perfecting Church?
Pastor Blanks: To reconcile, perfect and equip people for the work of the ministry. Read II Corinthians 5: 18-21.
What is your favorite Bible verse?
Pastor Blanks: Mark 9: 23, “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.”
What is your favorite meal?
Pastor Blanks: I enjoy chicken and rice with broccoli, green beans and for dessert peach cobbler. I also enjoy a traditional southern meal.
Why do people not come to church?
Pastor Blanks: Because of a lack of revelation of what the church is and the function of the church. The church is a living organism. If we belong to Christ, we are part of the body of Christ.
Tell me about your family?
Pastor Blanks: I am the knee baby of 10 siblings of the late Mattie Pearl Blanks and Charlie Harris. I have been married to LaTonya Blanks for 23 years, and we have four children, George, Jr., 31, Joi Christina, 21, Judaea Rene, 20 and Junia Pearl, 12. They all serve in the ministry at the church in some capacity.
