In 1995 Bishop D.l. Isom, Jr., appointed Rev. Jackson Presiding Elder of the St. Louis District. Rev. Jackson replaced Presiding Elder James Tyrone Morris who left to pastor the St. James C.M.E. Church in Chicago Heights, Illinois. That same year Bishop Isom appointed Rev. Dr. O'Neal Shyne, Jr., as pastor of Lane Tabernacle. Dr. Shyne pastored the St. James church in Chicago Heights where Elder Morris went to pastor.

Upon his arrival, Pastor Shyne initiated a revised order of worship and bulletin format. He initiated the Sacrificial Offering concept, hoping to finance the church strictly through tithing and sacrificial giving. He cooperated with three other local C.M.E. pastors to implement the JPSL Annual Revival. He initiated the idea of "Family Communions," "Why Try God in 1996," Family and Friends Day, added the 8am worship service and organized the Lane Foundation as a 501c3 exempt corporation. Dr. Shyne was a good preacher who enjoyed delivering the gospel. While serving as our pastor he authored one book and wrote many articles. Pastor Shyne had a love for children and youth. He often made the parsonage available for special events for children.

On February 12, 1996 the Educational Building was damaged by fire. The Church Conference voted to demolish the building and rebuild a multi-purpose structure. The congregation hired an architectural firm and plans were drawn for the new building. We encountered many obstacles and set backs during the process but we remained optimistic that one day the building would be completed.

In August of 2000, Bishop D.I. Isom, Jr., appointed Rev. Dr. James T. Morris as the 19th pastor of "The Tabernacle" as Pastor Morris affectionately calls Lane. Upon his arrival, he told the congregation of his determination to "see the educational building rise from the hole in the ground." In September of 2000 Lane held the first of several very successful Fashion Shows at the Airport Marriot Hotel. Over 400 persons were in attendance. The show netted over $10,000 in proceeds. Pastor Morris was welcomed to Lane Tabernacle with a two day gala entitled "Celebration of A New Ministry." The event included a Testimonial Luncheon. Mae Lady Jazz Wheeler serenaded Pastor Morris while family and friends allowed the members of Lane to get a peek into our new pastors' life. A Community Welcome Service which attracted civic and religious leaders from throughout the metropolitan region was held on Sunday with a lavish reception following.

Through the perseverance of Pastor Morris, the follow ship of Lanes' officers and cooperation of the congregation, the new building was dedicated in October of 2001. Pastor Morris, who since his arrival has been noted for "doing things in a big way," orchestrated an outstanding service of consecration and dedication for the new building. The new building was named The Dotcy Isom, Jr., Community Center in honor of Bishop Isom.

Since his arrival, or splashdown, as he calls it, Pastor Morris has brought many new and innovative ideas and programs to Lane. To name a few: From The Cotton Fields To The Cotton Club, The Hog Killin, Birthday Roast, Hanging of the Green, Sacrifice Of Praise and the newest program The Snow Ball.

Pastor Morris, who was Dean of Students and Professor of CME History and Polity, and African American Theology at St. Paul School of Theology, is an innovative and interesting teacher. He has an interesting way of weaving his teaching skills into his thought provoking sermons. In addition, he has a great passion for liturgy which can be experienced through his attention to detail and ritual during special occasions. His vestments also attest to his knowledge and love of ritual. Under his pastorate we have added a bass guitarist and flutist. He often utilizes the musicians from the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra during worship.

Rev. Morris is beyond a doubt a mover and shaker in the St. Louis religious community. He has spearheaded many movements and campaigns to better the lives of the poor, disenfranchised, marginalized and senior members of metropolitan St. Louis City. He has challenged our cities Mayor, our states Governor and even our nations President. When he speaks, he is heard. We are proud of his accomplishments.

Dr. Morris is married to Lisha DeGail Price Morris and they have three sons, Damien, Tyler and Dominique. Mrs. Morris is a lovely and fashionable First Lady who loves interior decorating and gardening. To these ends, she has made the parsonage a show place inside and out, beautified the church grounds and turned a room that was once a place to throw things, not being used, into a beautiful church nursery. We are proud to call her our First Lady and we love their children.