A Church Built on Faithfulness

Bishop Horace Stacey II (1944–2007) and Mother Billie Jane Stacey (1944–2016)

1977 — The Beginning

The story of Temple of Praise Community Church began on September 28, 1977, when Bishop Horace Stacey II obeyed the call of God to leave Denver, Colorado and move his family to Amarillo, Texas. With only his wife, their children, and the family dog, Socrates, the church began with humble beginnings and a deep commitment to seek God’s direction.

1978 — The First New Member

One year later, the church welcomed its first new member, Sister Erma Briscoe, who became lovingly known as one of our founding mothers. Her arrival marked the beginning of God adding to the church.

1982 — New Growth and Leadership

In 1982 God sent Elder John (Chris) Brown, who would later become Assistant Pastor. Along with Elder Brown came the Brown family, the Meander family, the Price family, and many others. As the congregation grew, the need for expansion became clear.

1987 — Rebuilding the Church

By 1987 the original church building was torn down and replaced with a new structure. Although this met immediate needs, First Lady Stacey continued to carry the vision of relocating the church to Amarillo Boulevard, trusting God to bring it to pass.

1990s — Seeking God’s Direction

Throughout the early and mid-1990s, the church explored multiple options for expansion. After prayer, fasting, and wise counsel, it became clear that God had a specific plan. The congregation continued seeking the right place, trusting that God would open the door at the right time.

1999 — Land Purchased and New Vision Unfolding

In 1999 Temple of Praise made a down payment on land that would one day house the new church. Under the faithful work of treasurer Sister Debra Walker, the land was paid off quickly. A debt-releasing ceremony was held as the congregation celebrated God’s provision.

That same year, Bishop Stacey also assumed the mantle of Founding Presiding Prelate of the Apostolic Pentecostal Fellowship of Churches, Inc., leading a movement devoted to winning souls to the Kingdom. He served faithfully in this capacity until his passing.

2000–2003 — Building the New Church

Planning soon began for the new facility. After reviewing several options, the decision was made to build a 200-foot by 60-foot metal structure—large enough, as many said, for God to fill. The foundation was poured, the structure raised, and the interior work began.

For three and a half years, Elder Brown, Elder Stacey III, CC Brown, and Isaac Butler worked tirelessly on sheetrocking and carpentry. The journey included challenges and discouragement, but like Nehemiah, the workers remained steadfast, refusing to come down from the work God had entrusted to them. Bishop Stacey, though unable to assist physically, remained strong in prayer, trusting God’s promise that the funds would not run dry.

Early 2000s — A God-Kept Promise

Though at times resources seemed thin, God proved faithful. Every need was met, and the vision He placed in First Lady Stacey’s heart began to take shape. After many struggles and sleepless nights, the church saw God bring the promise to completion.

The Passing of Bishop Horace Stacey II

After decades of service, Bishop Stacey finished his earthly race and entered his eternal rest. His ministry, leadership, and unwavering commitment to biblical principles left a lasting impact on the church and the wider fellowship. While his earthly book has closed, his legacy continues to live on in the people he led and loved.

Today - A Vision Continued

Temple of Praise Community Church stands today as a testimony to God’s provision, the faith of Bishop and First Lady Stacey, and the dedication of the congregation who labored, prayed, and believed. The vision God gave in 1977 has become a reality, and is continued under the mission of Bishop Brown