African-American Service

Confirmed Word of Faith of Pasadena

1199 E. Walnut Ave

Pasadena, Ca 91106

(818) 792-7113

Senior pastor: Dr. Charles L.Tucker

Sunday services at 8am, 11am, and 7:15pm

Radio Ministry (KFSG 96.3fm Sundays at 2:30pm)

Television Ministry (Charter Cable TV 3 Sundays at 4pm)

A gracious group of people--you'll feel welcome, no matter what your race. The early 8am service is perhaps the best musically. David Thomasson, studio musician, plays the sax at that service.

Faithful Central Missionary Baptist Church (Two Locations)

This African-American church recently acquired "The Forum" where the NBA Lakers used to play their basketball games -- a big step of faith. It's quite an experience worshiping from the bleachers with thousands of other people. The acoustics (the building is circular) present major challenges, and the times I attended, sound booth problems distracted from the service somewhat. The musicians are of studio-level quality. Expect to hear some unique contemporary gospel music. The pastor is a strong, gifted preacher/leader and a good worship leader too (when he leads).

If you want a more up-close, intimate experience of worship, attend a service at their Tabernacle.

The New Christ Memorial Church

1333 Vaughn St

San Fernando, CA 91340

818.361.1087

FAX 818.837. 1281

Email: NewCMC@aol.com

Senior Pastor: Andrae E. Crouch

Assistant Pastor: Sandra E. Crouch

Serves about 500.

Sunday services at 11am and 6pm.

You will get a more intimate experience of worship here than some of the African-American churches listed in this section, as the sanctuary is not massive. The platform has a canopy-like look, perhaps intended to be reminiscent of the Old Testament Tabernacle. The pastor, Andrae Crouch, is well-known nationally for his contribution to worship music through his songs (Bless the Lord O My Soul, My Tribute, etc.) and CDs. His father and mother founded this church. Andrae preached both times I was there. He did not lead the worship, but the worship forms a major part of the service. The musicians are highly skilled. The services I attended lasted about 2 hours. A good third of the congregation arrived after the 11 o'clock hour.

West Angeles Cathedral

3600 South Crenshaw Blvd

Los Angeles, CA 90016

323.733.8300

www.westa.org

Radio Broadcast 102.3 FM Sunday at 10am.

Television Broadcast Sunday 10Am on TBN

Bishop and Senior Pastor: Charles E. Blake

Denomination: Church of God in Christ

This striking African American Cathedral, a landmark in the Crenshaw area, was built around the year 2000 and seats about 3500. The friendly Church parking attendants will insist on taking your car keys (don't be alarmed) and they'll patrol the parking lot while you're in church.

The huge, all-marble vestibule is impressive! The sanctuary inside is posh. Alas, there is so much carpet and so many padded seats that the congregational singing is somewhat stifled. One senses here a well-developed African-American church culture. They sing the old gospel songs (eg., At Calvary) as well as the contemporary gospel songs. Very capable musicians--some are studio musicians. Women sometimes lead the song service/worship. The choir director obtained some of the most refined, elegant chorale sounds I've heard from any African-American choir anywhere. A Christian Academy, Bible College, Christian Bookstore, and Performance Theatre are connected to the church. In addition, they have a community development corporation that helps members acquire mortgage loans and home ownership (unique).