In the year 1948, the House of God, Church of the Living God (CLG) local congregation, under the pastorate of Bishop A. purchased a sanctuary on the corner of 58th & Thompson Streets in West Philadelphia. The church became known as the “National Temple” or the "Mother" church. For years, this building served at the CLG headquarter site. In addition to leading the National Temple family, under Bi
shop White, the CLG ministry also flourished in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Ohio, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, Illinois, Michigan, New York, the West Indies, and Africa. Through all of this, Bishop White gave the credit to God and those who stood with him in faith. Under the leadership and vision of Bishop A.H. other ministries were added in Philadelphia, such as the CLG Publishing House, a Convalescent Home, a school known as the White’s Theological Bible School and Business Institute, and a radio broadcast. Many souls were saved, baptized, licensed, ordained and sent forth to do the work of the Lord from the "Mother" church location. White remained the National Temple pastor and CLG Senior Bishop until his demise on January 25,1981. Since that time the National Temple congregation has experienced trial and transitions during the pastorates of Bishop Raymond White, Mother Anna Cardwell and Bishop John Broomer, Sr. who carried the ministry over the last four decades. In October 2010, Elder Barbara R. Jones, a daughter of the church was appointed to serve as assistant pastor. She worked in that capacity until there arose a need for an interim pastor. In 2012, Elder Barbara Jones was officially appointed as pastor by the General Board of the church, installed on March 22, 2014. Since that time, she has faithfully carried the pastoral torch. Under her leadership the church has been committed to the total restoration of all phases of the ministry. More recently, this historic building has suffered vandalism and decline. The small congregation refuses to give up the fight to maintain a vibrant ministry on the corner of 58th & Thompson Streets. It’s in our hearts to complete the work that Bishop A. started in 1948. A faithful remnant is determined to rebuild the worship life, building structure and community service of the church. While there is much to accomplish to bring in a harvest of souls, the congregation is daily about the Father’s business. Our hands have been strengthened for this good work! The National Temple vision includes revival, restoration and renewal of spiritual health, stewardship, evangelism and community outreach. For we believe the scripture according to II Chronicles 7:16 - “I have chosen and consecrated this temple so that my Name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will always be there.”
