Bishop Elect Nathaniel Woodard Sr.

is the State Superintendent of the House of God churches in Maryland and is responsible for the spiritual and administrative oversight of the six churches in that region. As well as Co-pastor of Refuge Temple House of Prayer, 1000 Oak Lane, Philadelphia, PAb

Bishop Elect Woodard served as a Deacon for 20 years at Temple Beth'El where he honed his skills for service. In 1992 the Lord called him to a ministry that led him to begin a small congregation on Broad and Belfield streets in Philadelphia. The work grew rapidly as the Lord added to the congregation, necessitating the acquisition of another building. Again, the Lord provided a building located at 1248 Oak Lane; a dry cleaners that was in bad need of repair. Never discouraged, Elder Nathaniel Woodard saw something that was missed by many; a sanctuary for the saints of God. He along with the Deacons and brethren remodeled the two buildings, converting them into a church that served them for 5 years.

Once again, God showed the now "Vicar Bishop" Woodard the former Episcopalian church and rectory just a couple of blocks down the street. Vicar Bishop Woodard sought God through fasting and prayer until that building was purchased. That facility is the current home of Refuge Temple House of Prayer. There he and his co-workers have implemented programs that address the needs of the saints as well as the community. The Share program for instance is for married and engaged couples wishing to enhance their relationship with each other and with God. The Men's Association is a fellowship focused entirely on men and their unique roles as husbands, fathers, fiancés and friends. The Youth on Parade deals with the multifaceted environment that engulfs our youth and provides remedies to difficult relationship problems. 

The homeless ministry entitled "Chosen 300" recognizes that many disenfranchised individuals are worthwhile and that there current state is not a permanent dwelling place. These outreach ministries have brought several additions to the church including musicians, pastors, evangelist and others.

Bishop Elect Woodard is the State Superintendent of the House of God churches in Maryland, responsibility which gives him spiritual and administrative oversight of six churches in that region. In this role he has been instrumental in implementing new programming to enhance the churches ability to meet both the spiritual and natural needs. Under his leadership, each State meeting now includes a general session focused on relevant family and social issues. Such informational workshops often cover such important topics as juvenile delinquency, broken families, substance abuse, and early childhood development.

By profession, Bishop Elect Woodard is a General Construction Contractor. He has used his expertise and skills to accomplish the major renovation of New Bethel House of Prayer in Baltimore, Refuge Deliverance House of Prayer in Philadelphia, Abundant Harvest House of Prayer and many others. During his trips to Zimbabwe, Africa, rather than spending his time sightseeing and touring, he again used his skills to affect much needed repairs on the central church in Gweru. His dedication and commitment to the work of the LORD has brought him into this special place to join his fellow yoke men in guiding the church through turbulent times.  God Bless you Bishop Woodard!