Imagine a beacon of hope shining brightly in the heart of Oak Cliff. That’s Grace Temple Pentecostal Church. It stands as a testament to faith and community.
Grace Temple Baptist Church began in October 1940. Fourteen people and Pastor Virgil H. Fisher founded it. The first church was on the corner of Sunset and Tyler. That location was just one block south of where we stand now.
Rapid growth marked Grace Temple’s early years. Buel R Crouch became pastor on February 16 1941. In just a few years the members needed a bigger place. On March 7 1947 they marched together. They moved from the old building to this corner of Tenth and Tyler.
Growth continued. In February 1954, an educational wing was added. A Day Care Center opened in 1962. It cared for over 150 children.
God continued to bless Grace Temple. Soon, a larger sanctuary was needed. The new sanctuary was dedicated on February 10 1966. It had seating for 1440 people. In 25 years, Grace Temple grew immensely. It expanded from a single frame building. Now it occupied nearly a whole city block.
Brother Crouch retired on February 17 1974. He had health problems. His retirement took effect on his 33rd anniversary.
Douglas L Laird arrived in 1974. Under his leadership, the church paid off the final building in 1982.
Oak Cliff changed in the 1970s and 1980s. Grace Temple stayed true to its mission. It remained a lighthouse. The church ministered God’s love to the community. Membership became smaller. But the ministry never stopped.
In 1954, Betty Hatfield started working at Grace Temple. She greeted visitors for 52 years. She was the pastoral and financial secretary. People knew they could ask Betty anything.
In the fall of 2008, the church fasted and prayed. Pastor Ryan Jespersen led them. Since then, attendance steadily climbed. A ministry to Spanish-speaking people began.
Today, Grace Temple is bilingual. They worship together on the last Sunday of each month. Small Groups meet at 9:30 a.m. The Joint Worship Service begins at 11:00 a.m. It is in English with Spanish translation.
Marco Castillo became Senior Pastor on July 28 2013.
Grace Temple stands at the corner of Tenth and Tyler. It stands as a beacon. It welcomes all. Its history shows faith and resilience. It is a place where everyone can share their spiritual gifts.