District Elder James Z. Townsend was inspired of the Lord to begin ministering in 1977 at Mount Zion Apostolic Church, under the leadership of the late Bishop James O. Franklin.

In 1985, the Lord began dealing with his heart to become a pastor.  District Elder Townsend's desire was to be an evangelist.  He also felt there were enough churches in existence in Indianapolis.  The Lord continued to deal with him.  District Elder Townsend spoke with other pastors about this awesome responsibility.  After much prayer and supplication, he yielded to the Lord's call.

On March 17, 1985 Mount Bethel Apostolic Faith Church was incorporated.  With his wife by his side, his mother, Sister James Anna Townsend, the late Deacon Willie Goudeau and Sister Florence Goudeau, Deacon Larry and Sister Nettie Glass and our children, the journey began.

Pastor Townsend and his members had their first service in the basement of Deacon and Sister Goudeau's home.  His first message was entitled, "Mix It With Faith" (Hebrews 4:1-2). 

He wanted us to believe the Lord was going to bless us with a building to worship in.  The next week, someone told District Elder Townsend about a pastor who was moving out of a schoolroom located at 34th and Emerson. 

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