“Home is where the soul is.” That saying rings especially true as we stand before Denver Heights Church of God. This church is more than just a building. It’s a spiritual sanctuary with a rich history. Denver Heights Church of God is located in the Denver Heights neighborhood on the East Side of San Antonio. It is one of numerous century-old churches here.
Denver Heights Church of God was established in 1913. It holds a special place in history. The church is one of the first founded after the Azusa Street Revival. This revival took place in Los Angeles in 1906. Participants faced criticism for their unorthodox behaviors. Today historians consider the revival a catalyst. It helped spread Pentecostalism in the 20th century. Denver Heights is considered the birthplace of modern Pentecostalism in San Antonio and South Texas.
Pastor F. C. V. Foard arrived in San Antonio in 1913. He was 27 years old. He preached Christianity on street corners. He also preached in tents. He used any place he could find.
Services were held in a nearby building during the church’s construction on Dreiss Street. Before purchasing the land, Elder Foard and twenty members moved services. They went to Roberts Street on the Westside of San Antonio in 1917. This location is now West End Church of God in Christ. In 1920, Elder Foard and many members returned to Denver Heights. They held services in a leased building on Iowa and Mesquite. They called it “The First Church”. They remained there until constructing the present building.
Denver Heights has had several pastors after Pastor F. C. V. Foard. These leaders include Elder R. M. Paige and Bishop E. E. Hamilton. Others were Elder E. D. Childress, Superintendent N. R. Henderson, and Elder L. C. Smith. Many members also furthered the ministry’s causes. These members included Mother Montgomery and Sister Dobbins. Sister Milvin Biser and Missionary E. Moore were also key. Sister Nellie McNeal and Sister Eva Allen contributed. Deacon Chester Byrd, Bishop Grady, and Superintendent Grant helped. Bishop R. E. Ranger, Superintendent Crawford, and Elder G. T. Garcia aided as well. Superintendent Bell also helped.
After Elder L. C. Smith’s death, Bishop Thaddeus D. Iglehart installed Elder J. B. Pope Jr. as pastor. He led “The Mother Church”. Under Pastor Pope, significant renovations were completed. These renovations improved the 90-year-old building.
Pastor J. B. Pope Jr. made significant improvements. These upgrades touched the infrastructure and mission of Denver Heights COGIC. He died in July 2015. Bishop Samuel E. Iglehart appointed Pope’s eldest son, Elder Joseph Pope. He became the new pastor of Denver Heights COGIC. Joseph Pope continues the work today.
The Denver Heights Church of God currently affiliates with the Texas Southwest Jurisdiction. It is part of the Churches of God in Christ. Denver Heights COGIC also works with the Greater Alamo District. This collaboration provides regional representation. The church participates on a Jurisdictional, National, and International level.
Denver Heights Church of God stands as a testament. It shows the enduring power of faith. It also highlights community spirit. Its history reflects a journey of spiritual growth. The church’s story includes overcoming challenges and celebrating triumphs. It remains a beacon of hope. It serves generations in the Denver Heights neighborhood. The church preserves its legacy for years to come.