Legacy Of Highway

A visual testimony of the people, places, and seasons that have shaped Highway Tabernacle of Prayer.

Historic Girard Avenue church location
Early church congregation at Highway Tabernacle of Prayer
Bishop and Mother Ford with Bishop Andrew J. Ford II
Historic ministry portrait from Highway Tabernacle of Prayer
Historic worship service at Highway Tabernacle of Prayer
Bishop Andrew James Ford Sr. portrait
Mother Elrita Ford portrait
Bishop and Mother Ford seated together
Bishop Andrew J. Ford II installation moment
Historic Highway Tabernacle of Prayer ministry photo
Historic Highway Tabernacle of Prayer family photo
Present-day sanctuary view at Highway Tabernacle of Prayer
Recent worship service at Highway Tabernacle of Prayer

A Legacy of Faith, Leadership, and Promise

Highway Tabernacle of Prayer stands on a testimony of holiness, perseverance, and Spirit-led leadership in Philadelphia.

Highway Tabernacle of Prayer anniversary banner

From 1954 To The Present

Highway Christian Church of Christ was established on November 14, 1954, under the faithful leadership of Elder Andrew James Ford, Sr. and Mother Elrita Ford. From the beginning, the ministry was marked by prayer, growth, and a willingness to follow God's direction step by step.

As the congregation expanded, the church relocated several times, including seasons on 13th Street, 40th & Ogden Streets, and later 4128 W. Girard Avenue after a devastating fire. In 1986, the ministry entered a new chapter at 4031-37 Germantown Avenue, where Highway Tabernacle of Prayer continues to serve today.

After the passing of the founders, the mantle of leadership continued through Bishop Andrew J. Ford, II from 1993 to 2019. In September 2019, Bishop E. Malone Porterfield, Sr. and his family were called to lead the church into its present season of restoration, worship, and community impact.

Milestones In The Journey

Faithfulness through every season has shaped the witness and identity of this church.

1954

The church was founded in Philadelphia and began its early ministry journey under Elder Andrew James Ford, Sr. and Mother Elrita Ford.

1964

After hardship and relocation, the congregation continued forward in faith and re-established ministry on W. Girard Avenue.

1986

Through prayer and vision, Highway secured its current Germantown Avenue location and strengthened its witness in the city.

1993

The leadership mantle was passed to Bishop Andrew J. Ford II, marking a new season of faithful oversight and continued spiritual leadership.

2019

A new era began under Bishop E. Malone Porterfield, Sr., with renewed focus on restoration, worship, and God's glory.

Rooted in truth. Led by the Spirit. Centered on Christ.

Today Highway Tabernacle of Prayer continues to honor its past while pressing forward in worship, holiness, and service to the community.

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