Bishop Arthur C. Bell (Our Founder)

Bishop Arthur Bell a Chicago native who spent his early years with his parents at the New Friendship M.B. Church under the pastorate of the late Rev. Stroy Freeman, where the seeds of faithfulness and church stewardship were instilled in him. He was first introduced to the Pentecostal experience when he visited the Apostolic Faith Church with his friend Darlene Gogins and heard the late Bishop John Holly preach. That experience made an indelible impression on his life, bringing him under conviction which later led to his salvation. He was eventually baptized in Jesus’ Name and filled with the Holy Spirit at the Mt. Zion Healing Temple in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, under the late Bishop Earl Parchia. It was there that he learned the fundamentals of the Apostolic Faith and first began singing in the church. He returned to Chicago to join the Apostolic Church of God, where he was a faithful choir member, soloist, and altar worker until he accepted the calling of God to the preaching ministry in 1981. Soon after, Bishop Arthur Brazier recognized his leadership potential and appointed him director of the Young People’s Auxiliary at the church. He held that position diligently until the Lord called him to pioneer the Apostolic House of Prayer in 1987.

God had placed a special favor and anointing on Bishop Bell, which was evident to all who witnessed the phenomenal growth of his ministry. Many throughout the Chicagoland and the Indiana area have been blessed by his fervent prayer ministry and fiery preaching over both radio and television through “Pray Until Something Happens.” Until he transitioned to glory, he remained a down to earth and humble vessel of God. Always quick-witted and humorous. He had the ability to switch from joking around to being dead serious about the Word of God, telling it like it is in a manner reminiscent of old-time sanctified preachers. A loving family man, Bishop Bell remained married for over 44 years to Darlene Gogins Bell. They are blessed with four sons and four daughters, all of whom worked with their parents in the ministry.