They Know Us By Our Love . . .

 

 

August 7, 1957 marked the official beginning of Good Temple M. B. Church and our late Pastor’s ministry here.  This date also signified the end of a dream envisioned and the beginning of a lifetime commitment.

 

The very name “Good Temple” grew out of what it represented and the unique relationship it had with the community surrounding it at 4936 S. Wells Street where it was first established.  Through our late Pastor’s direction and encouragement, a spirit of giving has always prevailed in our congregation.  It was a young boy’s perception of the spirit that prompted him to say, “This is a good church, you ought to call it Good Temple.”  Thus, Good Temple was born.  A spirit of goodness and giving continues to thrive in our midst.

 

Displaced by the coming of the Dan Ryan Expressway in 1959, we relocated to 641 W. 63rd Street, where we experienced one of our most thriving and vital growth periods.  Through faith and the personal sacrifice of Pastor Coleman Sr., membership, and a few struggling small businesses, we were able to sponsor a broadcast hour over the radio station WMPP.

 

Then in 1968, we were again forced to move due to the coming of the Englewood Mental Health Center.  So, we continued south to 1452 W. 69th Street.  It was at this location that we experienced the home going of some members who had been most significant in our very survival up until that time.

                                                                             

However, God said the work must continue on and so it did until 1977 when Satan sent fire to our doors and again we were forced to move.  This time the move seemed to be almost impossible because there was simply no place to go or means to get there.

 

From some of our friends (Christ Temple, Sunrise, Fellowship and others) came supportive arms and invitations to share worship facilities.  Then from God the idea came, let’s go to our Pastor’s home.  And from a small space cleared in the corner of a variety shop operated by Pastor Coleman Sr., we have struggled to this our present facility where we are continuing to labor to build a house of worship for the Lord.  We have been at our present location for 38 years (1977 - 2015).

 

God in our later years continued to rain down blessings upon our church.  In 2006, He added to our fellowship a Youth Director - Rev. Ellis Jimmerson.  Rev. Jimmerson greatly expanded our resources and spiritual horizons.  He enabled us to finally unite with an organization of churches: Southside Christian Fellowship District, a valuable resource to our congregation. 

Rev. Jimmerson also served as a personal mentor to many of our young people.

 

Our ministerial staff growth has been noteworthy.  Their diverse speaking delivery methods have provided different perspectives on the word of God.  We continue to lift them up in prayer so that they would continue to grow in the Lord and bless us with the power of His word.  Thank you Rev. Denson.

 

On March 19, 2008, we experienced the passing of our Pastor Emeritus, Rev. Reuben E. Coleman Sr.  During the same time, we witnessed the ordination of our Pastor, Rev. Reuben E. Coleman Jr. on March 7, 2008 and his installation as Pastor on March 14, 2008.

 

Under Pastor Coleman Jr.’s leadership, we purchased our current property, becoming first-time property owners.  We now have a thriving Women’s Ministry (Sista Love) under the direction of Lady Joyce Coleman and Sis. Carrie Coleman, and we have a thriving Youth Ministry under the direction of Minister Gabrielle Manuel.  We surely have our sights set on future growth!

 

Pastor Coleman is fervently working with numerous groups and organizations in an effort to build constructive, positive relationships to support our church, the membership and the community.  These groups include him being:

 

•           A member of the Board of Directors for the Southside Christian Fellowship District Association                                       

•           Land Use Coordinator of the 95th Street Panel of Development                                  

•           A Member of Pastors for Change and                                    

•           A Member of Pastors United for Change                                     

 

This anniversary year has also seen a significant amount of fruit added to our church family.  We baptized 6 new converts.  “To God be the Glory”.

 

This year also marked the third year that our congregation was able to support five college-bound students each with a $500 scholarship award in honor of our Pastor Emeritus, Rev. R. E. Coleman Sr.

 

Our Pastor has led the church in purchasing a vacant lot to be used for parking and church activities (tent services and witnessing).

 

We have added additional classrooms, an office, a meeting room, and a kitchen to the 2nd floor space of our property.

 

For 58 years, we say thank you Father and may you continue to empower us with your word and your spirit!  58 years of helping somebody!  Good Temple is pressing forward, continuing our spiritual legacy - being a “good church!”