For over four decades, Kendrick shepherded the Oasis of Praise Church in Bessemer, formerly known as Shades Crest Church of God and later as Pocahontas Road Church of God. His tenure, which brought spiritual guidance to many, ended on a somber note when he announced his retirement at the age of 73.

A Distressed Pastor Steps Down

Allan Kendrick decided to step down after spending months on administrative leave since December 18, 2024, grappling with the immense fallout from his grandson's actions and the accusations that people hurled at him and his wife, Gay.

Authorities charged Brandon Allan Kendrick II, aged 32, the pastor's grandson, with the murder of five family members. This tragic incident occurred in July 2024 in an apartment above the garage on Allan Kendrick’s property.

The victims included Brandon's wife, Kelse, their children, Kaleb and Kynli, and their cousins, Colton and Haley Daniels.

Community in Shock Over Family Tragedy

In the wake of the murders, Allan and Gay Kendrick faced intense scrutiny. Community members and relatives accused them of enabling the circumstances that led up to the violence, with some alleging that Allan Kendrick had prior knowledge of the events.

This scrutiny escalated into threats, compelling the couple to abstain from attending the victims' funeral. Allan Kendrick, devastated by the accusations and the loss, expressed the immense pressure and fear they experienced during this period.

Adding to the complexity, Brandon Kendrick II was reportedly battling worsening schizophrenia, which might have influenced his actions on that fateful day.

Past and Present Accusations Cloud Pastor's Career

Before these events, Allan Kendrick faced unrelated accusations of sexual harassment and abuse, all of which he vehemently denied. The mounting allegations prompted the Church of God denomination, based in Tennessee, to initiate a formal investigation into his conduct.

Facing potential disciplinary actions, including a church trial, Kendrick opted to retire and expressed his willingness to surrender his ministerial license should the investigation continue.

The narrative of Allan Kendrick’s retirement is compounded by his depiction of the incident. According to Kendrick, his grandson brandished a firearm in their home just moments before the murders. In a life-threatening moment, his wife managed to deflect the gun as it discharged, miraculously escaping harm.

A Lifelong Pastor Reflects on His Journey

“I’m just tired,” Allan Kendrick confessed, reflecting on the ordeal and his decades of ministry. His voice heavy with emotion, he highlighted the sacrifices and challenges he and his wife endured during his 41 years of leadership.

His retirement is colored by a mix of sorrow, controversy, and fatigue, marking an end to his long-standing role in a community that both praised and scrutinized him.

Critics like Haley Goodwin Beard have been vocal, focusing on the need for healing among the congregation and justice for the victims, suggesting a complex legacy for Kendrick; one fraught with tragedy and contention.

Looking Forward: The Community's Path to Healing

As Allan Kendrick steps back from his life’s work, the community at Oasis of Praise Church faces the task of rebuilding and healing from the collective trauma. His departure raises poignant questions about the future of the congregation and the surrounding community’s ability to move forward from such a profound tragedy.

The story of Allan Kendrick, marked by sacrifice, scandal, and sorrow, leaves a lasting imprint on the Oasis of Praise Church and all those connected to it.

With the pastor's final departure, the church and its members begin to navigate the arduous process of finding forgiveness and peace in the aftermath of a story that shook their world to its core.