-
1983
On December 4, 1983, West Phoenix Missionary Baptist Church was organized by Reverend Daniel and Jeanette Watkins, Deacon James and Virginia Walls, Emily Hudson, and Elsie Burnie. The first service was held at the home of the Watkins. Reverend Dale E. Johnson led this brand new family of believers from December 4, 1983 to January 15, 1984 as the first pastor. Subsequent meetings were held at the Greater Phoenix Urban League Manor until May 1, 1985.
-
1988
It was then that Reverend John Wilson (pastor from March 4, 1984 through September 20, 1987) saw membership grow enough to move inside a 4 bedroom house at 2539 North 51st Avenue. The gradual conversion from a house into a place of worship began immediately and lasted nearly ten years. During that time, Reverend Eugene J. Dew pastored from February 1, 1988 through December 18, 1988. Nearly two years later, God brought a fresh wind to the family:
-
1990
Reverend L. Gary Ransom took up the mantle as pastor on February 2, 1990. A graduate of Bishop College, Pastor Ransom led major building site changes in 1994 that included a vestibule, a wheelchair-accessible ramp, offices, classrooms, a fellowship hall and kitchen facilities, and modern heating, cooling, alarm, and electrical systems. Under the guidance of Pastor Ransom, the family grew over the next decade from 40 members to over 700 lives changed.
-
1998
In March 1997, the name of the church was changed to Greater Progressive Christian Church. This name change reflected the next level of faith that God would guide this family toward: as a place not bound by geography, but free to move forward for the sake of God’s Kingdom. In February 1998, the church relocated to 1529 West McDowell Road, our present location.
-
The Future
We don't know what the future holds, but we certainly know WHO holds the future! God is doing amazing things at GPCC, and we want you to be a part of it. Maybe you're new to the Valley or looking for a place to call "home." Maybe you're interested in learning more about Jesus Christ. Maybe you just have questions. Whoever--and wherever--you are, there is a place for you at Greater! Come visit us soon. You're welcome at Greater...