Our History

Through the years...

the ministry of Greater Bethlehem Temple has helped thousands of people spiritually, physically, and emotionally. Founded in 1933 by Bishop Freeman M. Thomas, and carried forward by his son, Reverend Lowell J. Thomas, MD, Greater Bethlehem Temple has been an inspiration in the city of Pittsburgh and its surrounding areas.

...being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; -Philippians 1:6 

In the early 1930s, the Reverend Freeman Thomas answered the call of God upon his life and founded what would become known as Greater Bethlehem Temple. Bishop Freeman Thomas passed on to his reward in Glory, but not before witnessing the blessing of his son, the Reverend Lowell J. Thomas, MD, taking up the mantle of senior pastor in the mid-1990s. Dr. Thomas faithfully led the church until his passing in 2024, continuing the legacy of spiritual leadership and service established by his father.

Dr. Lowell Thomas’s daughter, Kim-Andréa Richardson, stepped into the role of senior pastor in 2024, after faithfully serving as assistant pastor alongside her father for the last ten years. During this time, she grew under his mentorship, embracing the call to ministry and the responsibility of leadership. Before his passing, Dr. Thomas poured his wisdom and guidance into her, preparing her to carry on the work that God had entrusted to Greater Bethlehem Temple. She now works hand in hand with her husband, Nathaniel Richardson, who serves as the lead pastor of Greater Bethlehem Temple. Together, they continue to steward God’s vision for this church in the community, faithfully leading the congregation into a future filled with hope and purpose.

Greater Bethlehem Temple exists to bring good tidings unto the humble; assist and restore the broken-hearted, proclaim the liberating gospel to the captives, and reveal the love of Jesus to those who are bound. Greater Bethlehem Temple does this through various ministry outreaches, equipping the saints, and preaching the uncompromised Word of God.

This new chapter of ministry is strengthened by the unwavering support of a dedicated team of trustees and ministry leaders who partner with the senior and lead pastors to fulfill God’s work at Greater Bethlehem Temple.

For more information and to explore how you can be part of this community of generous, anointed people, who extravagantly love God, and courageously love those He loves, please explore our website and fill out the contact form.