A shining light celebration center of praise and worship.
At First Church of God, we're dedicated to providing a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone to come together in fellowship and support. If you're looking for spiritual guidance, our dedicated team is here to help. Whether you need support, prayer, or have questions about faith, feel free to reach out to us. If you'd like to benefit from personalized support and counseling, head to our Services page and connect with our pastoral care team. Or if you need more information, you can simply send us your inquiries via the Contact Us form and get prompt responses. To keep up to date with everything happening at First Church of God, including upcoming events and special services, just head to our News & Updates section!
Our History
The First Church of God of Rochester began in 1922 in the home of Rev. Lewis Johnson. Over the years, the church grew and moved multiple times, finally settling at 408 Clarissa Street in 1941 under Rev. Ottie L. Cook’s leadership. By 1973, under the guidance of Rev. Harold Mars, the church expanded into a new building at 334 Clarissa Street, becoming a central hub for the community.
Rev. Willie Drayton and later Bishop Dr. Dwight Fowler continued to build on this legacy, launching numerous ministries that enriched the church's spiritual life. By 1996, under Bishop Fowler’s leadership, the church successfully paid off its mortgage, marking a significant milestone in its journey of faith and service. Today, the First Church of God of Rochester remains a vibrant community dedicated to spiritual growth and outreach.
OUR TEAM
Minister Theresa James
Reverends, Ministers, Evangelists
Minister Tylifa Milton
Reverends, Ministers, Evangelists
Rev. Gwendolyn Dorsey
Reverends, Ministers, Evangelists
Deacon James O'Neal
Deacons and Deaconesses
Deaconess Gloria McCullough
Deacons and Deaconesses
Deacon John McCullough
Trustee
Board of Trustees, Deacons and Deaconesses
Sister Myrtle Day
Chair
Board of Trustees
Minister Ivan Thompson
Reverends, Ministers, Evangelists
Evangelist Janice Boyd
Reverends, Ministers, Evangelists
Rev. Pauline Stevens
Reverends, Ministers, Evangelists
Deaconess Sharon Hester
Deacons and Deaconesses
Deacon John Mourning
Trustee
Board of Trustees, Deacons and Deaconesses
John McCullough
Deacon
Deacons and Deaconesses
Sister Linda Webb
Church Secretary
Church Office Staff
Minister Deborah Fowler
Reverends, Ministers, Evangelists
Rev. Jerry Fontaine
Reverends, Ministers, Evangelists
Deaconess Viola Curry
Deacons and Deaconesses
Deacon Simon Hester
Deacons and Deaconesses
Sister Deborah Fowler-Kilbourn
Trustee
Board of Trustees
Mother Viola Curry
Vice-Chair
Board of Trustees
Lady Shelly Fowler
Office Ministry
Church Office Staff, Reverends, Ministers, Evangelists