Our History

Lewis Temple Church of God In Christ began as Whole Truth Church of God In Christ in 1956 on 21st Street, in Saginaw, Michigan. Under the leadership of Supt. T. R. Harris, Elder Fred Lewis, Mother Statha Lewis (first lady), and Missionary Vermell Franklin our history began. A house was rented on 21st Street. Fifty years ago Elder Fred Lewis along with his wife, started commuting from Flint to Saginaw. God blessed us on 21st Street in spite of the poor facilities. The membership grew and later we acquired another building on Astor Street. Through much prayer and dedication the church continued to grow, following the leading of the Lord. Through prophesy, we purchased another church at 3024 S. Washington. Elder Lewis’ love for the people grew.

The work grew as Pastor Lewis carried new saints from Flint to Saginaw. It grew so quickly that he started another church. In 1959 a sister church was founded: Hamilton Avenue Church of God In Christ, in Flint, MI. In 1981, the vision to build a church came to pass. Faith Temple Church of God In Christ (COGIC), located at 5802 Fleming Road, was build on “Devil’s Lake.” Faith in God’s plan and dedication to establish a beachhead, healed the land. Another miracle of “faith with works” was performed.

In 1996, again Elder Lewis demonstrated love for God’s people. His vision to build the Lord a house in Saginaw came to pass. He always said, “The people of God are so faithful, and loyal. I believe with the Lord’s help we can do it!” One of his favorite songs is: “I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me.” The trustees and members suggested a new name for this new edifice. Whole Truth COGIC became the Lewis Temple COGIC, 3300 Hess Street, Saginaw, Michigan.

Bishop Lewis meets the requirements as written in I Timothy 3:1”…If a man desires the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.” He is a believer in the holy scriptures, “holding the mystery of faith in a pure conscience.” I Timothy 3:9 In 1992 under Bishop L. H. Ford in Memphis, Tennessee, Pastor Fred Lewis was installed Bishop of Southwest Michigan 4th Jurisdiction, Church of God In Christ, Inc.

He refers to himself as a “family man.” He is the husband of one wife, Mother Statha M. Haralson Lewis. The father of eleven children, Pastor Clarence (Barbara) Lewis, Missionary Vivian (Deacon Leroy) Turner, Missionary Kathryn Dukes, Organist Sandra Lewis, Elder Fred Allen (Saxophonist Lydia) Lewis, Missionary Linda (Elder Gene) Buggs, Sister Sharyn (Deacon Donnie) Langston, Pastor Eric (Missionary Patricia) Lewis, Evangelist Deirdre (Pastor Keith) Dill, Organist/Missionary Fe’Neda Lewis, Sister Kineta Lewis.

Bishop Lewis has always been a man of prayer and faith, Holding the mystery of the gospel. This ministry has touched many people across the state and nation.

Today, Lewis Temple stands on 9 acres of land. It’s handicap accessible facilities include, a fellowship hall, spacious, air conditioned, sanctuary, administrative offices and adequate parking. This historical monument is dedicated to serving the city of Saginaw and it’s surrounding communities as a place of Worship.