Is it possible for a church to rise from humble prayer meetings to become a beacon of faith? The story of Pentecostal Temple Church of God in Christ begins with a small group seeking spiritual connection.
Pentecostal Temple Church of God in Christ started in 1924. A small group of saints gathered for prayer on Wells Avenue. They met in the home of Mother Jordan and Brother N. D. Jordan. Their services grew so much that they needed a bigger space.
Soon after, they found a storefront at Woodlawn and Wells. It marked the beginning of the Woodlawn Church Of God In Christ. Some original members included Brother and Mother Jordan. Others were Mother Virginia Gates and Mother Tommie Beasley. Sister Etta Howard and Brother Horace Carroll also joined. They chose Elder Harvey as their leader.
Revival services were held. Many people found salvation and joined the church. Again, the meeting place became too small. A lot at 1010 Woodlawn Street was purchased. The members built the church with their own hands. Over the years, pastors and members moved on.
In 1941, the Lord sent a new pastor Elder J. O. Patterson Sr. He was a studious, ambitious and dynamic young man. He had a vision for the people. Through his ministry, membership increased. New clubs and groups were formed. Pews were bought. The church was completely renovated. Woodlawn Church became a prominent church in Memphis, Tennessee.
Bishop J. O. Patterson was traveling from New York to Memphis. The Lord spoke to him saying build me a house. Go back to the old landmark on South Wellington Street. Name the church Pentecostal Temple. In a vision, he saw the church’s design. He was assured that the Lord would be with him. He knew the congregation’s finances were weak. He questioned God. Again, the Lord spoke Do not be afraid. I will direct thy path. Do not worry about the money. The wealth of this world is in My hands.
The project was presented to the Woodlawn Church Of God In Christ members. They received it with enthusiasm. First, they needed to find a site. As the pastor approached two lots on South Wellington Street he heard the voice of the Lord saying This is it. Attorney A. A. Latting was the church’s legal advisor. He was asked to negotiate the purchase. He advised against the project. He knew the church’s financial state. Seeing Bishop Patterson’s determination he proceeded with the deal.
On February 8, 1950, the Woodlawn Church Of God In Christ became incorporated. A board of trustees was elected. They were granted permission to manage the church’s business. A payment of $1,000.00 was made on lots at 225-229 South Wellington Street. The total cost was $15,750.00. Plans were made to raise funds. June 1, 1950 marked the start of a three-week revival service. Elder A. A. Childs from New York City conducted it. The meeting was a success spiritually and financially. A few months later, Woodlawn Church was sold. Services were held at the J. O. Patterson Funeral Home.
Scanning the phone directory Kirby Stringer’s name stood out. The pastor called him. He told him about the church plans. He said that the Lord directed him to call. Mr. Stringer said that the Lord asked you to call. I was just drawing a church sketch. The blueprints will be $2,000.00. I will draw them at cost $350.00. The balance of $1,650.00 will be my gift to Pentecostal Temple.
Pastor, members, and workmen labored day and night. On Easter Sunday 1951 foundation services were held. Bishop A. B. McEwen delivered the sermon. As work progressed funds diminished. They needed a secured loan. Several loan companies showed little interest. Bishop Patterson continued praying for guidance and courage. Mr. Alex P. Dumas showed interest. He sent a letter recommending the loan to the president of North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company. The loan application was processed and granted.
Initial services were held in the new church’s dining hall on June 1, 1952. Later, this hall was dedicated to Mother Virginia Gates. Opening Day of Pentecostal Temple was July 20, 1952. Rev. Blair T. Hunt delivered the sermon. Bishop O. M. Kelley laid the cornerstone. Bishop A. B. McEwen gave the dedicatory sermon.
In 1981, the new Pentecostal Temple building was completed. It cost approximately four million dollars. The members and friends contributed. Bishop J. O. Patterson Sr. received the plans and knowledge. The church is located on the corner of Linden and Danny Thomas Blvd. The main sanctuary seats about 2,500. The illuminated figure of Jesus welcomes you.
Pentecostal Temple continues to thrive. It’s a testament to faith and vision.