Church History
" For on this rock I build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it."
- Matthew 16: 18
In the summer of 1974, a small but devoted group of seven individuals, all West Indian immigrants, planted the seeds for what would become the New Testament Church of God in Philadelphia. These early pioneers had previously encountered the Church of God in Jamaica or England and felt called to establish a spiritual home for the burgeoning West Indian community in Philadelphia. By 1975, with Reverend Robert M. Varner, the Regional Overseer, leading the organizational efforts, the church was officially recognized and legally organized on August 24, 1975, at 58th Street & Baltimore Avenue.
Reverend Felix F. Poyser, an ordained minister, answered God's call to leave England and relocate to Philadelphia, where he began ministering to his native people and others in need of the Gospel. Under the leadership of Reverend Poyser and his wife, Sister Lilith Poyser, the church experienced remarkable growth. Within just sixteen months, membership increased by 400%, and the church quickly outgrew its rented facilities at 944 South 58th Street.
In 1978, the church purchased its first building, a former bank at the intersection of 58th Street, Baltimore Avenue, and Cobbs Creek Parkway, marking a significant milestone in the church’s journey. The congregation continued to thrive, establishing close fellowship with other congregations across the Greater Philadelphia area and beyond, including New Jersey, New York, Washington, and Maryland. Annual rallies, often attended by as many as 700 people, further solidified these connections.
The church experienced a profound spiritual awakening in February 1981, when a Holy Ghost Revival broke out during a Sunday evening service, leading to a year-long revival that saw a great harvest of souls, particularly among the youth. This revival marked a turning point for the church, cementing its role as a beacon of spiritual vitality in the community.
By 1985, the church celebrated its tenth anniversary of being legally formed, receiving its first citation from the City of Philadelphia, recognizing Pastor Poyser's contributions to both the congregation and the broader community. As the congregation continued to grow, they outgrew their Baltimore Avenue location and, in 1994, moved into a larger facility, a former factory at 935 South 53rd Street. This new location was officially opened on September 10, 1994, with a grand celebration attended by the Mayor of Philadelphia and other dignitaries. In recognition of Pastor Poyser's unwavering dedication, the City of Philadelphia named the church's block "Reverend Felix Poyser Way."
Throughout his ministry, Bishop Poyser was known for his humility, faithfulness, and deep care for his congregation and the wider community. His leadership extended beyond the church walls as he served as the District Overseer for the Philadelphia Westside District of Churches and was an active member of the Pennsylvania State Prayer Team. His life's work was a testament to his favorite song, "If I can help somebody as I pass along, my living shall not be in vain."
The church continued to receive recognition for its impact, with Bishop Poyser being honored by the City of Philadelphia in 1999 and later receiving the Jamaican Consul General’s Heritage Award in 2013, as well as being inducted into The Pentecostal Theological Seminary Hall of Prophets in 2016.
In 2017, after more than 60 years in ministry, Bishop Poyser retired, passing the mantle of leadership to his eldest son, Bishop Stephen S. Poyser, Sr. Bishop Stephen, who was born in Sheffield, England, had witnessed the humble beginnings of his father's ministry and actively served in various roles within the church, from musician to choir director, before assuming the role of Pastor. Alongside his wife, Jennieve Poyser, who leads the Ladies Ministry, Bishop Stephen has continued to build on the legacy established by his father, expanding the church’s outreach and impact. Under his leadership, the church has developed a bi-weekly food pantry that serves underprivileged families and seniors in the Philadelphia and Delaware County regions.
In 2024, the church celebrated their 50th anniversary of the (Poyser Way) New Testament Church of God, reflecting on the incredible journey from a small group of seven to a thriving congregation of over 400 members with 15 active ministries. The church honored the memory of their founding members, including the tireless work of their long-serving secretary, Percess V. Mattison, who has faithfully supported the church for over 40 years, and gave thanks for the countless pioneers of faith who passed on but whose legacy lives on in their continued mission.
The church looks to the future with hope and anticipation embracing the motto coined by Bishop Stephen Poyser, Sr., "Expect Great Things," as they continue to serve the community and spread the Gospel.