Zion’s Tabernacle Church was founded in 1962 in Oakland, California, by Jessie L. Martin, his wife Clarancy Mae Martin, and their nine children: Gregory, Gail, Gloria, Vance, Warren, Brandon, Blair, Pamela, and Paula. Pastor Martin envisioned establishing a beacon of hope for the Oakland community. Among his many talents, Jessie Martin was a skilled carpenter, a gift that proved invaluable as he undertook the complete renovation of the property at 2147 East 15th Street, transforming it into a place of worship. During this time, services were held in the home of Missionary Carrie Mae Walker, and as the excitement around the renovation grew, so did the church’s congregation. Souls were continually added, drawn by the spirit of unity and hope that Zion’s Tabernacle embodied.
Under Pastor Jessie Martin’s visionary leadership, Zion became more than just a church—it was a sanctuary for the needy, the downtrodden, and those seeking a deeper relationship with God. It became a place for spiritual growth, a refuge for those longing for healing, and a space where miracles were expected and realized. Pastor Martin famously declared, “Zion’s Tabernacle is the church where everybody is somebody, and Jesus Christ is the center of our lives.” His leadership extended beyond Zion, as he rose to the position of Superintendent of the Pentecostal Fellowship District, overseeing three churches.
On September 8, 1976, Superintendent Jessie L. Martin completed his earthly labor and went home to be with the great Carpenter. Before his passing, he anointed his eldest son, Gregory S. Martin, who had served as the church’s youth pastor, to succeed him as pastor of Zion’s Tabernacle Church.
ABOUT US
HISTORY
Gregory S. Martin was a founding member of Zion’s Tabernacle Church, playing a pivotal role in the renovation of the church building alongside his father, Superintendent Jessie L. Martin, and his brothers. Together, they transformed the structure into a citadel of hope for the Oakland community. Gregory Martin faithfully served as Zion’s first youth pastor, nurturing the spiritual growth of the younger generation. Upon the passing of Superintendent Jessie L. Martin, Gregory was appointed to succeed his father as the pastor of Zion’s Tabernacle.
Gregory Martin earned an Associate of Science degree in Liberal Arts from Laney College, which equipped him with a solid foundation for his ministry and leadership. As pastor, one of his most notable accomplishments was successfully liquidating the church's mortgage, a milestone achieved through the congregation’s dedication, which included fundraising efforts like the sale of chicken dinners. Pastor Martin is also credited with founding Zion’s first hunger relief program, a ministry spearheaded by Naomi Randolph. What began as a small initiative from her apartment grew into a robust community outreach program, eventually moving to the church’s multipurpose room under his guidance.
In the 1980s, Pastor Gregory Martin made the courageous decision to leave his prestigious position as the first Black district sales manager at Coca-Cola Bottling Company to become a full-time pastor. Known affectionately as “The People’s Pastor,” Superintendent Martin fostered deep relationships with his congregation, treating them as family. Members often visited the pastor's residence, fellowshipped over gourmet meals he prepared himself. He was known for hosting annual family picnics for the church. He was especially known for serving hot apple cider on cold Bible study days, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Pastor Martin’s leadership extended beyond Zion’s Tabernacle when he became Superintendent over the Pentecostal Fellowship District, uniting Zion’s Tabernacle, Refreshing Fountain, and Holy Temple Churches. His passion for church leadership led him to establish the Adjutancy Program for the California Northwest Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ. As the first Chief Adjutant, he was fondly known as “The Chief,” and he remained dedicated to this role throughout his tenure.
His personal motto, “Don’t Miss the Supper,” became a lasting legacy that reflected his heart for ministry and fellowship. Tragically, on September 5, 1993, Superintendent Gregory S. Martin passed away suddenly. Though his life was cut short, his legacy of commitment, faithfulness, and genuine love for God’s people continues to inspire those who knew him and the generations who followed.
MISSION
Following the passing of Superintendent Gregory Martin, Pastor Elmer Randolph was appointed to lead Zion’s Tabernacle, serving with unwavering dedication from 1994 to 2022. A man deeply committed to the spiritual well-being of the congregation, Pastor Randolph carried a profound burden for God’s people and possessed a compelling vision to elevate Zion’s Tabernacle to even greater spiritual heights. Under his anointed leadership, the church became both a "filling station" and a "soul-saving station," where individuals from all walks of life were drawn to experience the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit.
Renowned for his passionate and fiery preaching, Pastor Randolph consistently delivered soul-stirring sermons that touched hearts and transformed lives. His deep love for Sunday School was evident in his commitment to teaching and nurturing the spiritual growth of the congregation. Additionally, Pastor Randolph’s leadership was marked by a strong focus on youth outreach, ensuring that the next generation was engaged and empowered within the church. He also faithfully continued the operation of the church’s vital food program, originally established under Pastor Gregory Martin, expanding its impact within the community.
Through his steadfast devotion and visionary leadership, Pastor Randolph left an indelible mark on Zion’s Tabernacle, shepherding the church with grace, passion, and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of God’s kingdom.
VISION
On Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022, after 29 years of faithful service, Pastor Elmer Randolph passed the leadership baton to Pastor Wade Harper, a son of Zion. Pastor Harper reopened Zion’s Tabernacle after a temporary closure due to the global pandemic. Driven by the mandate of Matthew 28:19 to evangelize the world for Christ, Pastor Harper expanded the church’s reach by introducing virtual services through social media platforms and adding the name “International” to Zion’s Tabernacle. His leadership brought further renovations to the church, including the remodeling of the church office, exterior, roofing, and bathrooms.
Pastor Harper’s vision also enhanced the church’s Free Food Program, which continues to serve the community. He successfully secured grants to procure a cargo vehicle, and electronic tracking systems for the program, making it more efficient and impactful. Pastor Harper also acquired a 13-seater outreach bus from AC Transit. Additionally, he obtained a grant to acquire exercise equipment, which was gifted to community members, fostering goodwill and strengthening relationships within the community.
Under Pastor Harper’s dynamic leadership, Zion’s Tabernacle International Church of God in Christ continues to thrive as a beacon of hope, service, and spiritual growth, embodying the rich legacy of faith established by its founders. With a renewed mission to serve the local and global community, Zion stands as a testament to God’s enduring faithfulness and the power of dedicated leadership.