The History of Immanuel House of Praise
For the vision is yet for an appointed time; Minister Carlton E. Bowers, Jr., knew it was time to birth his own church ministry. Although it had been prophesied to him on many occasions, he continued to seek the Lord for direction. As the Lord led Minister Bowers shared his vision with his pastor and mentor Apostle Dr. Richard M. Avant of Calvary Baptist Church, Dover, Delaware where he then received the blessing from his pastor.
After much prayer and preparation, On Sunday, April 2, 2006 God blessed the establishment of Immanuel House of Praise Church. Our first service was held at Liberating Power AME Zion Church, in Bridgeville, DE. Immanuel will always be thankful and grateful to the Reverend R.J. Chandler and the members of Liberating Power for opening up their church doors to us, that we were able to worship for our first worship service. On that Sunday there were sixty-three people in attendance.
Soon after; God opened up the door for us to have our own place to worship. On the very next Sunday, April 9, 2006 we began to hold our services at Young’s Funeral Home, 308 N. Front Street, Seaford, Delaware. Yes! A place where they take the dead but truly the Power of God showed up each and every Sunday to bless, heal, and deliver the people of God.
On July 16, 2006, Minister Carlton E. Bowers, Jr., was ordained and elevated to the Reverend Carlton E. Bowers, Jr., and Immanuel House of Praise Church was installed by our Spiritual Father, Pastor & Mentor the Apostle Dr. Richard M. Avant of Calvary Baptist Church, Dover, Delaware.
We were there for a few years and however the ministry was out growing this location, it was time for Immanuel to take another leap of faith. Although we faced opposition from the Town of Seaford, God prevailed. It took a lot of hard work, dedication and faithful members who worked diligently every day and night into the early parts of the morning, so that our church would be ready for our first service.
On November 1, 2009 Immanuel House of Praise held service at our new location 624 W. Stein Hwy. Seaford, Delaware.
Today, Immanuel House of Praise celebrates over eighteen years in ministry, and knowing “Eight” represents new beginnings, we anticipate the next move of God and the divine purpose He has for our church.
We may be imperfect people but we serve a Perfect God. To God be the glory for all the things He has done and continues to do for Immanuel; truly God is with Us.
In an exciting new chapter for Immanuel House of Praise, Pastor Carlton E. Bowers Jr. will soon be elevated to the esteemed position of Bishop, joining the Chesapeake College of Bishops and Pastors. This momentous consecration ceremony will take place on September 28, 2024, at Holy Trinity Church in Dover. The elevation service, led by Chief Consecrator Bishop Sean D. Wheatley, D.Min, signifies a significant milestone in our church’s journey, reflecting the growth and spiritual leadership of our congregation. The community is invited to celebrate this joyous occasion, marking a new era of faith and dedication.
