Picture this A majestic building stands before you. This is Parkwood Gospel Temple a testament to faith resilience and community. Its history is a captivating journey spanning almost a century.
Parkwood Gospel Temple’s story begins not in Detroit but across the river in Windsor Canada. In the 1920s amidst a burgeoning industrial Detroit the Holy Spirit moved believers from both sides of the Detroit River. Prayer meetings began in homes led by Brother William Blake. The first public Pentecostal meeting on the Canadian side followed in August 1923.
The church’s early years were marked by humble beginnings. Rev Clifford Nelson became the first pastor in December 1923. He rented a storefront. Soon a revival broke out. The congregation moved several times eventually purchasing and renovating a Baptist church. This became Bethel Pentecostal Church.
Through the Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression Bethel thrived. It grew in numbers and in its missions work. Rev William Fitch became pastor in 1943. The mortgage was paid off and a new building was constructed. This new Bethel Pentecostal Church was completed in May 1951.
Bethel continued to flourish. New ministries emerged and missions giving reached new heights. In 1977 Rev Jack Counsell became senior pastor. Under his leadership the church expanded. Major renovations took place and surrounding properties were purchased. The name changed to University Gospel Temple.
Rev George Carroll succeeded Counsell in 1985. He oversaw a massive building program. A new 5.5 million dollar facility was constructed. It included a 2000 seat sanctuary a chapel classrooms a gymnasium and a seniors apartment complex. The grand opening of Parkwood Gospel Temple took place on August 6 1989.
Rev Mark Hazzard became lead pastor in 1996. A ten-year debt reduction program was launched. Through sacrificial giving the mortgage was paid off in January 2006. Further renovations and building projects followed. The church’s name changed to Parkwood Gospel Church.
Rev Daniel Gray became the lead pastor in 2018. He continues to guide Parkwood. In 2023 marking the church’s 100th year Parkwood purchased a building in Windsor’s downtown core. This is just six blocks from its original site. This new location houses the Parkwood Outreach Centre a bridge to the community.
Parkwood Gospel Temple stands as a beacon. Its history is one of growth perseverance and unwavering faith. It continues to inspire hope and provide a home for its community. To God be the glory.