“Dedicated to biblical traditions.” That’s the promise First Church of God in Christ-Graham Temple holds. This isn’t just a building. It is a story of faith, migration, and community.
First Church of God in Christ began with families journeying to Minnesota. They were followers of Bishop Charles Harrison Mason. Mason founded the Church of God in Christ, Inc. in 1907. These families sought to establish a place of worship.
The church’s history has had its ups and downs. In December 2022, Elder Tierre A. Webster became the pastor. Bishop Fred Willis Washington installed him in 2023.
First Church of God in Christ is experiencing a revitalization. This comes after the challenges of COVID. It also follows the pastoral transition of Elder Hoarce Hughes. Pastor Webster has a vision. He wants the church to have both local and global impact. He wants it to embrace an ethnically diverse membership.
The story of First Church of God in Christ intertwines with another faith. The building at 810 Elwood Avenue North was originally a synagogue. It was built in 1926 for the Tifereth B’nai Jacob congregation.
In 1957, the First Church of God in Christ purchased the building. This marked a unique chapter. It became a shared space of worship. The building became a testament to two communities.
The synagogue suffered a fire only six years after opening. The small congregation repaired the damage. They hired Gunnar Dahlstrom and Martin Weinberger to redecorate. The sanctuary gained trompe l’oeil details and zodiac medallions. These decorations remain largely intact today.
Both Jewish and Black communities faced marginalization. They were often confined to North Minneapolis. Urban renewal and highway projects impacted them. Yet, they built a vibrant neighborhood.
Tifereth B’nai Jacob served Bessarabian Jews. They used the building to assert their presence. The First Church of God in Christ welcomed all. Their New Year’s Eve gospel concerts attracted members from various Black churches.
In 1940, Senior Bishop C. H. Mason sent Elder J. W. Graham to Minnesota. He reestablished First Church of God in Christ. He named it the Graham Temple Church of God in Christ. Graham became the first consecrated Bishop of the Church of God in Christ in Minnesota.
Superintendent Earl Demmings succeeded Graham. He became the pastor. He renamed it First Church of God in Christ.
Today, First Church of God in Christ stands as a testament to faith. It represents resilience and community. It reminds us of the intertwined stories of different cultures. It is a place where tradition meets contemporary ministry.
If you seek a deep connection with God. If you value biblical roots. If you desire relevant, modern approaches, consider this your invitation. First Church of God in Christ-Graham Temple welcomes you.