Written by Tanya Terry with LaDon McNeil, with photo provided by LaDon McNeil
Grant Street, in Flint, will be renamed Rev. Dr. Lewis Randolph Street to honor the legendary Pastor and community leader for more than four decades of faith, service and community impact. The honorary street renaming ceremony will take place at 1 p.m., on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, located at 1083 E. Stewart Avenue. There, Rev. Dr. Randolph faithfully served as Pastor for over 41 years.
Rev. Dr. Michael Pettigrew, Pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church, reflected on the significance of this tribute, describing how Rev. Dr. Randolph devoted his life to serving God, uplifting families, mentoring young people and building a stronger Flint community. He noted Randolph’s leadership extended beyond the church into education, healthcare, economic development, youth mentorship, anti-violence efforts and spiritual leadership.
Pettigrew stated: “Rev. Dr. Lewis Randolph was more than a pastor; he was a statesman of the faith community, a mentor to Pastors and a tireless advocate for the people of Flint. His leadership extended beyond the walls of the church and into every corner of our community. He demonstrated what it means to lead with conviction, compassion and humility. This street naming is a fitting tribute to a man whose life exemplified servant leadership and whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”
Rev. Dr. Randolph’s role as President of the Concerned Pastors for Social Action lasted over a decade until approximately 2013, where he was respected by businesses, banks, city administration, law enforcement, prosecutors and the general public.
The Concerned Pastors for Social Action (CPSA) was founded in March 1969 by 32 Black pastors from six denominations. They established the C.P.S.A. Courier in 1976. The coalition later gave up the publication, which evolved into what is now the Flint Courier News.
Rev. Dr. Randolph organized anti-violence rallies and prayer services that brought together Black and White communities to address crime and racial divisions in Flint. Randolph emphasized the importance of voting, family life and breaking down racial barriers, calling on all people to work together as one community to solve Flint’s problems.
Marcus Randolph, family representative, also spoke about the importance of the street renaming.
He stated: “For our family, this moment is deeply humbling and profoundly meaningful. Rev. Dr. Lewis Randolph devoted his life to serving God, uplifting families, mentoring young people, and helping build a stronger Flint community. To see his name permanently placed on a street in the city he loved is more than an honor—it is a reminder that a life dedicated to service can leave footprints that never fade. We are grateful that future generations will see his name and ask about the man whose faith, compassion and leadership touched so many lives.”
