Did you know Straight Gate International Church started with just three members? Bishop Andrew Merritt and Pastor Viveca Merritt founded it. Their daughter Rachelle was the third member.
Straight Gate International Church stands as a testament to faith. It shows the power of community in Detroit. The church’s journey began in a small storefront. It has blossomed into a vibrant ministry.
Bishop Andrew Merritt felt called to preach at 24. He learned under Bishop William Bonner. He was ordained in 1972. In June 1978 Andrew met Viveca Cecelia Johnson. They married that same year. They founded Straight Gate International Church on October 28 1978.
Initially services were held in a modest storefront. The congregation consisted of only Reverend Merritt his wife Viveca and their daughter Rachelle. Under Bishop Merritt’s leadership Straight Gate experienced remarkable growth. It went from three members to thousands. The church relocated eight times. Straight Gate remains rooted in family values. It emphasizes that Jesus makes families whole.
Bishop Merritt’s teachings have reached many through church services. His message is spread through radio and television. His books include “Pursue Overtake and Reclaim” and “My Faith is Taking Me Someplace”. A song by Bishop Andrew Merritt and the Straight Gate Mass Choir even hit the Billboard charts.
Bishop Merritt has met several U.S. Presidents. These include Ronald Reagan Bill Clinton George W. Bush and Barack Obama. He gave invocations for the Michigan House and the U.S. House of Representatives. In 2003 he received the Keys to the City of Jerusalem. He was consecrated as Apostle and Gatekeeper over Detroit.
Pastor Viveca Merritt is affectionately known as “Pastor Vickey”. She has co-pastored Straight Gate International Church since 1987. She ministers to women. Her teachings focus on virtuous living. She authored “God Needs More Annas”.
Straight Gate International Church is located at 10100 Grand River Avenue. The building has a rich history. It was formerly Temple Baptist Church. Temple Baptist built it in 1952. The auditorium originally seated 5200 people. Temple Baptist moved in response to demographic changes.
Straight Gate’s mission is to reach the city nation and world for Jesus Christ. The church believes in one God. They see him as Father Son and Holy Spirit. They believe Jesus’ sacrifice provides healing. Straight Gate International Church is a beacon of hope. It is a place of transformation in Detroit.