By JR Robinson, CEO & Co-Founder of JustMy

In Memphis, some of the most powerful community change comes from the intersection of faith and action. One Memphis CDC, founded in September 2021 by Living Life In Victory Church and led by Pastors Henry and Lorre Lavender, is a shining example of how spiritual vision can drive real, tangible progress in our city.

Faith, Unity, and Community Transformation

One Memphis CDC stands on the principle of “One Church, One Community, One City, One Memphis.” This isn’t just a slogan—it’s a call to action that unites diverse stakeholders, from city officials to local families, around a shared vision for a stronger, more resilient Memphis. The organization believes wholeheartedly in the power of prayer as a catalyst for change, regularly bringing together city leaders and residents for prayer collaborations that lay a spiritual foundation for practical solutions.

But their work goes far beyond prayer. One Memphis CDC is known for hands-on initiatives like distributing school supplies to families and providing Thanksgiving baskets to those in need. Their holistic approach bridges faith communities, local government, and citizens, tackling challenges like crime, poverty, educational disparities, and community division head-on.

Living Life In Victory Church: A Legacy of Service

The heartbeat of One Memphis CDC is the mission and spirit of Living Life In Victory Church. Pastors Henry and Lorre Lavender have dedicated decades to building strong people, families, and communities through faith, grace, and service. Pastor Henry, a native Memphian, has a remarkable background—serving in the U.S. Army, working in law enforcement and immigration, and ultimately answering the call to ministry over 23 years ago. Together with Lorre, his wife of nearly 40 years, they have raised five children and are grandparents to a growing family.

Living Life In Victory Church is rooted in the message of Isaiah 61: to heal the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty, and untwist mindsets. This vision is lived out daily through their outreach, their Victory Training Center, and their unwavering commitment to meeting both the spiritual and practical needs of their community.

Radical Compassion in Action

The Lavenders and their congregation have demonstrated what it means to love without limits. One especially moving example: when a young man broke into their church, instead of pressing charges, Pastor Henry and Lorre threw him a surprise birthday party—giving him the first birthday cake he’d ever received. This act of radical compassion made headlines and touched hearts across Memphis, embodying the church’s belief in redemption, forgiveness, and second chances.

Looking Ahead

As One Memphis CDC continues its mission, it stands as a beacon of how faith-based initiatives can create lasting, positive change. By combining spiritual principles with practical service, they are helping to build a Memphis where every resident feels supported, valued, and empowered.

In the words of Living Life In Victory Church: “We speak VICTORY over you and you shall not have lack. You will be VICTORIOUS!” This spirit of hope, unity, and empowerment is what drives One Memphis CDC and Living Life In Victory Church forward—uniting and uplifting Memphis through prayer, collaboration, and action.

Amplify Memphis. Amplify Faith. Amplify Community.