Did you know Christ Temple Church of Christ has a history rooted in miracles? In fact, it is a testament to faith and community. Christ Temple Church of Christ is more than just a building. It’s a story of growth, resilience, and divine intervention.
In 1982, Christ Temple Church of Christ began its journey at 3085 54th Street. Dr. Donnie N. McGriff, his wife Dr. Shirley J. McGriff, and their children founded it. The Pentecostal Assemblies of the World organization blessed the milestone.
Within two years, the Christ Temple Church of Christ quickly outgrew its original location. The congregation of 75 members moved next door to 3081 54th Street. Pastor McGriff called it “The Miracle on 54th Street”. God’s power was evident during this time.
By 1996, the church had 220 members and needed more space. Christ Temple Church of Christ moved to 5952 El Cajon Blvd. They renovated a two-story building to include offices, classrooms, a boardroom, and a sanctuary. The Philadelphian Outreach and Holy Convocation ministries developed here. Foreign missions expanded. Pastor McGriff was elevated to District Elder at Christ Temple Church of Christ.
In 1998, the McGriff family and the entire church witnessed a miracle. Dr. Shirley J. McGriff experienced God’s healing power. Her sickness was not unto death. She became a testimony to God’s miraculous ability.
In 1999, Christ Temple Church of Christ opened the International Apostolic University of Southern California. It became fully accredited. By 2002, the name changed to Christ Temple International Apostolic University. The university educates and trains leaders in Christian Education, Theology, and Church Administration. Many graduates serve in the church and the workforce.
By 2001, Christ Temple Church of Christ needed a larger facility. Bishop McGriff sought guidance through prayer. God led them to their current location at 309 Prescott Avenue in El Cajon. This new location featured a sanctuary seating 400. It included a media ministry balcony and an overflow room for 50 people. The property also includes offices, a fellowship hall, and a trailer. The Sunday School Department and the Christ Temple International Apostolic University use the trailer. The fellowship hall was named the Dr. Donnie N. McGriff Multipurpose Hall.
Through dedication, the church invited people to visit. Young and old attended Sunday School and church services. The Lord saved souls through this ministry. Under Dr. McGriff’s leadership, many ministries served the community. These included the Philadelphian Ministry, Armed Forces Ministry, and prison ministry. They provided food and clothing. They supported foreign missions in Mexico, India, and Belize. Senior and college students mentored youth.
Currently, Christ Temple Church of Christ has 28 in-house ministries. Each ministry addresses spiritual, physical, and mental needs. Twenty-five ministers have answered the call to pastoral roles. Many seek spiritual covering under Dr. McGriff’s leadership. People desire to experience God’s presence at Christ Temple Church of Christ.
In 2003, Dr. Donnie N. McGriff became Suffragan Bishop. In 2014, he was consecrated as Bishop over the Southern California District Council. He transitioned to Emeritus Bishop in July 2022.
On July 2, 2020, Dr. Shirley J. McGriff passed away. She served as First Lady for 22 years. She was the Executive Board & Trustee member, Vice President of CTIAU and Women’s Ministry president. She was the church’s interior designer and bulletin editor.
On December 17, 2022, Bishop McGriff married Dr. Gladys Grier. The Christ Temple Church of Christ family remains committed to spreading God’s word. Their mission is to prepare families to change the world. The church celebrates 42 years of faithful service.