District Elder James P. Foster, a spiritual pioneer, was born on July 9, 1921, in Little Rock, Arkansas. At the tender age of 18 months, his family moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where he was raised. As a young man, he served as an altar boy in the Catholic Church, a faith he was raised in.

 

In 1940, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served his country for three years. During this time, he married Gloria Davis in Kansas City, Kansas. Together, they welcomed five children, two of whom preceded him in death.

 

On June 29, 1948, a pivotal moment in his life occurred. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and received the Holy Spirit, marking the beginning of his spiritual journey. Under the guidance of Pastor Lula I. Hornbeak, he faithfully served the church and even delivered his first sermon. In 1952, Elder Foster felt a divine calling to Omaha, Nebraska. He began his ministry in a small storefront on 24th and Cuming Street, later moving to other locations, including 20th and Lake Street. In 1955, he found a small, rundown church building at 2316 N. 25th Street.

 

 

 

 

 

 

With unwavering faith and a vision from God, Elder Foster led the expansion and renovation of the church. As the congregation grew, so did his desire to build a grand temple for God’s people. In 1970, he broke ground on the new temple, a testament to his commitment to spreading the Gospel.

 

Tragically, on May 13, 1972, Elder Foster passed away while doing what he loved most: preaching the Word of God. He attended anniversary services at Pentecostal Assembly Church in Kansas City, Kansas when he delivered his final sermon. As he spoke, he transitioned peacefully from this earthly realm to be with his Lord.