“The Church Chosen by Jesus Christ for the blessings of multitudes.” This declaration greets visitors to Greater Refuge Temple Church. It stands as a testament to the church’s mission. Greater Refuge Temple Church in Washington D.C. has a unique history.
Founded on December 12 1989 by Chief Apostle Bishop William L. Bonner it began humbly. The first services occurred at Days Inn. It was located at 12th and K Streets N.W.
In February 1990 the church moved. Kelly Miller Junior High School became its temporary home. It was located at 49th and Brooks Street N.E. The Lord blessed the founder. Chief Apostle W.L. Bonner acquired land for the church in just three weeks.
Ground was broken on October 27 1990. Construction of the church began. Many doubted its success. Some predicted the church would fail.
However on June 1 1991 the first service was held. It took place at Greater Refuge Temple Church. God miraculously brought this work to pass. This was only the beginning. It marked the continuous winning of souls for His Kingdom. This occurred in the Washington D.C. area.
On March 8 2012 an important vote took place. Chief Apostle Bishop William L. Bonner conducted it. It was for the next Pastor. Bishop W. Michael Fields won the majority of votes. Apostle Bonner named Bishop W. Michael Fields the Pastor. He would lead Greater Refuge Temple Church in Washington D.C.
Greater Refuge Temple Church has a clear statement of faith. They believe in one Lord one Faith and one Baptism. They consider the Holy Bible as the Word of God. It contains the keys to eternal life. It reveals the mystery of faith.
The church believes in the oneness of God. He was the Father in creation. He was the Son in redemption. Today He is the Holy Ghost in the Church. They believe that Jesus is God. In Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form. They proclaim Lord Jesus Christ as the only name for salvation.
They accept God’s plan of salvation. This includes baptism by water and spirit. Jesus Christ was their perfect example. He was baptized to fulfill righteousness though sinless. Water baptism in Jesus’ name is essential. It provides forgiveness of sins. It confirms belief that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Rebirth by the Holy Spirit is essential today. It was essential in the days of the Apostles.
The Word of God must be proclaimed. It should spread throughout all the world. This aligns with God’s commandment. Their blessed hope lies in Christ Jesus. He has given them victory over death and hell. They anticipate the second coming of Christ. On that great day the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then the living will be changed. They will be caught up together in the air. And so they shall forever be with their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Greater Refuge Temple Church also has a vision. This includes believers devoted to The Word prayer praise fasting and worship. They envision a unified leadership team. These leaders labor for God’s glory not with selfish ambition. They envision an altar on fire for the Lord. Intercessors are anointed to fulfill God’s call. The youth will be filled with the Holy Ghost. They will speak in other tongues.
The church cultivates an environment for a great harvest of lost souls. They serve the Ward 7 Community with loving-kindness. They follow God’s method. Their commitment supports prayer services Bible Study engagements and worship services. They envision laborers perfecting their kingdom-gift. The church regularly confesses victory. They believe in a body of rapture-ready believers. They will be prepared when the trump of God sounds.
Greater Refuge Temple Church actively engages with its community. They run the Love Is Action Food Pantry. This meets the natural needs of the community. It is a member of the Capital Area Food Bank. The Music & Fine Arts Ministry edifies the kingdom. It uses a creative blend of music song praise worship and drama.