Praise Temple Apostolic Faith Church, Inc. was founded more than 59 years ago in Raleigh, North Carolina by the late Pastor Marie D. Battle. Following her passing in 2001, leadership transitioned to Elder Vernon L. Spinks, who later became Pastor. Under his direction, the church continued to grow upon a strong foundation of apostolic doctrine, holiness, worship, fellowship, and spiritual development.
In 2001, Pastor Spinks was led to begin weekly Bible study in Fredericksburg, Virginia, meeting in the home of the Coopers. Though the group was small, his commitment to teaching God’s Word and reaching souls remained unwavering.
Establishing Praise Temple Virginia
In January 2005, Praise Temple Apostolic Faith Church of Virginia began holding monthly worship services at the Holiday Inn Select Conference Center (now the Fredericksburg Hospitality Conference Center). Later that year, services expanded to weekly Sunday morning worship, supported by members from Raleigh and a growing local congregation.
In May 2006, Praise Temple Virginia became a member of the Eastern and Southern States Council and affiliated with the Pentecostal Churches of the Apostolic Faith Association. Later that year, the church relocated to a leased facility at 106 George Street in downtown Fredericksburg, where membership and ministry continued to flourish.
Leadership and Growth
In July 2007, Elder Terrence S. Brown, Assistant Pastor of Praise Temple Raleigh, relocated to Virginia to assist in ministry development. In February 2009, he was installed as Pastor of Praise Temple Apostolic Faith Church of Virginia. That same year, fifteen souls were baptized in Jesus’ name.
Pastor Brown’s vision centers on saving the lost, strengthening believers, and serving the community by developing disciples of Christ in love. Through consistent spiritual leadership and outreach, Praise Temple continues to impact lives—one soul at a time.
Expanding the Vision
In March 2011, Praise Temple Virginia relocated to 10800B Courthouse Road in Fredericksburg. The building was consecrated in June 2012, followed by continued enhancements to the sanctuary and nursery.
In 2015, the church completed major renovations, expanded ministry space, upgraded technology, and hosted the Eastern and Southern States Council. That same year, Praise Temple Academy (K–12) was established with the support of Brother Abraham Garcia and church members.
Praise Temple continued to expand its footprint with the purchase of a Rocky Mount property in 2016 and relocation to 13121 Woodford Road in Caroline County, Virginia in 2018. Between 2019 and 2020, facility upgrades were completed, and virtual ministry platforms were launched to maintain fellowship and outreach during the COVID‑19 pandemic.
Continuing Impact
In 2021, the Rocky Mount property was sold, allowing continued investment in ministry. Praise Temple remained active in worship, Bible study, fellowship, and community outreach.
In 2023, Praise Temple Long Island, New York was established. Eight souls were baptized, and three received the Holy Ghost. Monthly worship services, virtual ministries, and group studies continue to support spiritual growth in the region. The Long Island congregation celebrated its first anniversary in April 2024.
In May 2024, Pastor Terrence Brown was elected Assistant Chairman of the Eastern and Southern States Council. On June 2, 2024, Praise Temple Virginia was officially dedicated, with Founder Suffragan Bishop Vernon Spinks presiding.
In August 2025, Pastor Brown was elevated to District Elder within the Pentecostal Churches of Apostolic Faith International. That same year, Praise Temple Virginia completed a full sanctuary upgrade.
Our Mission Today
Today, Praise Temple Virginia and Long Island remain committed to reaching the lost, providing biblical education, and equipping believers for service in Christ. To God be the glory for all He has done and continues to do through this ministry.
