In May 1966, Bishop John D. Bright appointed Dr. Emmer Henri Booker (who at the time was pastor of Jones Tabernacle African Methodist Episcopal Church for two years) to a different position at the close of the Annual A.M.E. Conference. Two thirds of the members strongly disagreed with the appointment and petitioned Dr. Booker to become independent of the A.M.E. conference and establish a new church. After much prayerful consideration, Dr. Booker organized an independent church in his home. This was the beginning of the Temple of Divine Love Church. More than two hundred families joined the church for worship services, fundraising events and meetings. As membership increased, it became necessary to find a larger facility. Thus, the late Elder Lighfoot Solomon Michaux of the Radio Church of God, along with his officers and congregation opened their doors to us.  Worshiping with their congregation from May 1966 until January 1967.   

 

Dr. Booker's insight and leadership ability was profoundly projected in the organization of the church. Twelve Christ Circles were geographically appointed, therefore involving every member of the church. Officers of the church were: A President, 19 Vice Presidents, 1 Business Administrator, 8 Trustees, 7 Board of Directors and 11 members of the Financial Committee. Other church groups established under Dr. Booker were: The Angels of Mercy, Arts and crafts,  The Cherubim Choir, Girls and Boys Scouts, The Gospel Celestial Choir, The Sanctuary Choir, The Emmerettes, The Hospitality Club, Ladies Auxiliary, Male Ushers, Men's Club, Nurses' Unit, Prayer Band, Carolina Club, Sunbeam Card Club, Sunday School, Young People's Usher Board and among many others.
 
From May 29, 1966 until August 14, 1966, individual members donated $15,075.00 towards the building fund. An additional $5,424.00 was pledged towards the fund and by the end of six months; we were able to secure our present edifice located at 1518 W Girard Ave. The purchase and settlement was the direct result of fasting and prayer.
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The first service in our current church location was held on January 22, 1967.  From that glorious beginning we installed two large lights, a banquet room, kitchen and lounges on the lower level. A large stained glass window was installed in the sanctuary and the property of Cambridge street was remodeled. The organ was rebuilt and a new console was also installed.
 
In February 1967, Reverend Paul Clayton Zeigler became the Assiociate Minister and started the Household Food Cooperative on Cambridge Street. Dr. Booker ordained Reverend Abraham Williams, Reverend Frank Gabriel and Reverend Kenny L.  Branch, II and they became Assistant Ministers. Reverend Branch Organized the Temple of Divine Love Crusade on January 10, 1971 and became the Crusade Minister. His preaching and teaching in the street saved souls and increased the membership. Other assistants to Reverend Booker were Reverend Enrique P. Parks, Reverend Evelyn Wideman, Minister of the sick, and Sister Gertrude Gaskins, Worldwide Evangelist. The Silent Altar Prayer was one of the best reflections under Dr. Booker's leadership. In 1974, Dr. Booker resigned, ending seven and one half years of ministry at the Temple of Divine Love Church. 

 

Among the firsts in our History were: Melanie Goodman the first baby followed by Hytolia Branch, Howard White and Alison Braxton. Sharon Jones Walker, first high school graduate, Mr. & Mrs. John Blackwell, first wedding, Sister Florence Franklin, first death, Deana Ramsey, first Baby Contest Winner. 

 

In 1975, Reverend Paul C. Zeigler, Associate Minister became the Administrative Head of the church. Under this administration we were able to liquidate the mortgage, purchase a new Steinway piano, and purchase the vacant lot on 15th and Girard avenue to be used as a parking lot. 
 
Reverend Calvin L. Jones assumed leadership on October 31, 1976. Following the pastorate of Reverend Jones, Reverend Wallace P. Gary was chosen as Pastor and served until 1987. For nearly two years our dedicated officials led us and we continued to grow  and prosper. The congregation purchased a new church van and installed carpet in the sanctuary. Summer camp for Daily Vacation Bible School at camp Gibraltar in Morgantown, Pa and the first Temple of Divine Love retreat in Valley Forge.

 
Reverand Clayton D. Furlow was installed in November 1989 and served until November 1999. During this period we purchased new cushions for the pews, a new heater, and installed an air conditioner in the sanctuary. Also, the ushers remodeled our kitchen.