A Great Legacy Continues…
I’m sure he never thought his name would continue the legacy of the late Honorable Bishop James A. Johnson as Pastor of Bethesda Temple Church of the Apostolic Faith, Inc., but God knew that Pastor Julian R. Johnson was destined for something great. Although he began pastoring in 2017, he has been involved in various facets of ministry; to include over 25 years of service with the PAW Inc.’s CEOS, 3 years as Evangelism Director for the IPYPU, Treasurer for the Midwestern District Council, Board Member for the IMD, Ecumenical Leadership Council Member of Greater St. Louis, Member of the Korean and African American Pastor’s Association of Greater St. Louis, and his most recent elevation as District Elder in the Puerto Rican District Council under Bishop Gregory Irving.
As congregation leader (2015-2017) and then pastor, the Lord has allowed him to grow the ministry by 10%. His strategy has included implementation of noon day bible class for seniors and evening workers, new members classes, development of ministry curriculum for those coping with loss, and establishing more community outreach initiatives. He also installed Bethesda Temple’s first female Assistant Pastor.
Pastor Johnson leads the Bethesda Temple family with the scripture John 13:35 “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” and after the mantra “Enter expectantly, you will depart triumphantly!”
September 2nd 2018 I was baptized in the name of Jesus and received the Holy Ghost! Pastor Johnson and Lady Melanie are great examples of what Christian leaders should be. My life has changed for the better in so many ways because of this family and this church. Pastor Johnson teaches us to live like Jesus would want us too, and it shows in his congregation. I have a small family, (just me and my 3 daughters) and when I say, this church has embraced us, and truly cares about us, it is an understatement. The best things that have happened in my life besides the birth of my children, have been been because Jesus pricked my heart one day listening to a sermon from pastor Johnson. He teaches about faith, he teaches about love, he teaches us to be better than we have been, and then he backs it up with a scripture that explains why we should do it. My faith in the church has been restored because of this man and I am thankful everyday that my family and I joined Bethesda. From the deepest part of my heart, I thank GOD for the Johnson family and the lessons that I am learning from them at this great church!
Pastor Johnson keep feeding the people of God with the royalties which is God word’s.
Thank you, pastor for letting God use you! I will be GREATFUL for your contribution towards my introduction ceremony.