Mayor Eduardo Martinez
City of Richmond
July 1, 2025
Honoring the 100th Anniversary of McGlothen Temple Church of God in Christ
WHEREAS, for 100 years, McGlothen Temple has served as a spiritual beacon in Richmond, offering hope, compassion, and unwavering commitment to uplifting others through ministry and outreach; and
WHEREAS, McGlothen Temple Church of God in Christ was founded in 1925 as a small gathering of believers in Richmond, California, and over the past century has grown into a thriving congregation grounded in faith, service, and community; and
WHEREAS, originally named the Richmond Community Church of God in Christ, the church held its first services in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Willie Miles, and under the leadership of Elder S.W. Harrison, the church was formally organized and grew steadily, with services held in the homes of early members before securing its first building at 1452 Filbert Street; and
WHEREAS, the church was shepherded in its early years by devoted pastors, including Elder F.E. Fears, Elder S. Heyman, and Elder C.A. Perry, under whose leadership a small church building was constructed, laying a strong foundation for generations to come; and
WHEREAS, during World War II, McGlothen Temple supported the families of local shipyard workers, providing strength and encouragement during a time of national sacrifice; and
WHEREAS, in 1941, Bishop George W. “Dad” McGlothen was appointed pastor, and under his leadership, the congregation raised funds and completed construction of the current church location in 1946, which was named McGlothen Temple in his honor; and
WHEREAS, McGlothen Temple later gained national and international recognition as the home church of Dr.
Mattie “Mom” McGlothen, who served as the International Supervisor of Women for the Church of God in Christ from 1976 until her passing in 1994, becoming a beloved spiritual leader worldwide; and
WHEREAS, Bishop Clarence Davis led the church with distinction for 22 years, from 1964 until his passing in 1986. Under his leadership, the dining hall and sanctuary were significantly remodeled; and
WHEREAS, Pastor John Jennings served as pastor from 1987 until his retirement in 2021. During his tenure, he oversaw improvements to the church campus, including the dedication of both the Dr. Mattie McGlothen Library/Museum and the Bishop Clarence James Davis Education Center; and
WHEREAS, in August 2021, Pastor Willie C. Haynes III became the church’s eighth pastor, bringing renewed energy and vision while continuing McGlothen Temple’s rich tradition of faith leadership and community service; and
WHEREAS, the church’s legacy of service includes food distributions through its Missions Ministry, educational and youth empowerment programs, and events such as the annual Winter Wonderland, which brings joy and support to families in need; and
WHEREAS, the City of Richmond proudly recognizes the deep historical and cultural contributions McGlothen Temple has made to the life of our city, and honors the church’s enduring commitment to the spiritual and social well-being of its residents;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Eduardo Martinez, Mayor of the City of Richmond, on behalf of the Richmond City Council, do hereby extend our warmest congratulations and deepest appreciation to Pastor Willie C. Haynes and the entire congregation on the occasion of your 100th Anniversary, with profound gratitude for a century of service and blessings for the years to come.
Vice Mayor Cesar Zepeda
City of Richmond
July 1, 2025
Councilmember Doria Robinson
City of Richmond
July 1, 2025