On a sunny day in Tampa, the First Church of God stands as a testament to a rich history. The First Church of God has been a part of the Tampa community for over a century. Its story began between 1900 and 1912 when the Rev. W.O. Williams held meetings in a small church on the property of what is now Sulphur Springs Elementary School. Imagine the humble beginnings on the corner of 12th Street and Waters Avenue, where the seeds of faith were first sown.
In 1920, the church, under the leadership of Rev. George Lorton, moved to the corner of 10th and Sitka streets. The congregation witnessed a significant milestone when a basement structure was completed during Rev. John W. Lorton’s time as pastor. This momentous occasion was marked by a dedication ceremony on Thanksgiving in 1926. The congregation came together, pledging 25 cents a week, and by the 1940s they had paid off the mortgage, a testament to their dedication.
The First Church of God continued to grow. Under the leadership of Rev. Cliff Braschler in the 1970s, a new chapter unfolded. The church found its current home at the corner of Busch Boulevard and 22nd Street. It’s more than just bricks and mortar; it represents the enduring spirit of faith and community. The First Church of God has touched the lives of countless individuals and families. It continues its mission to serve the community, offering a beacon of hope and a place of worship for all who enter its doors.