“Little Green Church” was its first nickname. Today, we stand before Onehundredfourteenth Street Church of God. It has been a pillar in the Los Angeles community for over a century. The church’s journey began in 1921. Bishop E. R. Driver, Overseer of California, sent Elder L.C. Patrick to establish a church in Watts.
Elder Patrick, a skilled carpenter, constructed the first church building. He was aided by church members and friends. This simple, green structure became affectionately known as the “Little Green Church”. It was also known as the “114th Street Church.” Over time, more names were added. It became Triedstone Church. Later it was known as Revival Center Triedstone Church. Finally, it became 114th Street – Revival Center Triedstone.
Deacon George Smith joined Onehundredfourteenth Street Church of God at the young age of seven. He remembered attending Sunday school there with his younger brother. They were drawn in by the joyful atmosphere. The children were welcomed with love. The church gave them Sunday School cards. Deacon Smith’s family became dedicated members. Mother L. O. Hale was his mother-in-law.
Mother Hale’s dedication continued. She became State Supervisor of California with Bishop S. M. Crouch. Onehundredfourteenth Street Church of God became a hub. National leaders of the Church of God in Christ held meetings here. Bishop C. H. Mason, the founder, visited. Bishop E. R. Driver also came. Mother Lizzie Woods Robinson visited. She was the First General Mother of the Church of God in Christ.
Throughout its history, Onehundredfourteenth Street Church of God has had several influential pastors. Elder L. C. Patrick became a Bishop and National Superintendent of the Sunday School. Bishop M. Crouch, Bishop of California and a National Leader, pastored in 1926. Elder Geary served in the late 1930s and early 1940s. Bishop Moses Davis led in the late 1940s and 1950s. Bishop J. D. Smith and Mother Rebecca Smith were a powerful evangelistic team.
Elder Dr. Joseph W. Mayfield became pastor in 1972. He oversaw significant improvements to the church building. A larger church was needed due to growth. The cornerstone for the new building was laid in 1998. Elder Johnnie C. Smith was appointed pastor in 2008. He had served as Assistant Pastor since 1979. Elder Michael Jackson became the current pastor in 2018.
Onehundredfourteenth Street Church of God is a Mother Church. Many members have become pastors and leaders. It has played an important role in the community. The church’s website is itsfilmedthere.com. It shares filming locations in Chicago and Los Angeles. The Onehundredfourteenth Street Church of God is more than just a building. It’s a place of history and community.