A turning point for a pastor and a church

When Pastor Matthew Barnett assumed the pastorate of Bethel Temple in 1994, he thought he was assuming the leadership of a traditional church. Yet after a life-changing encounter with God, Pastor Barnett realized his calling was far greater than he could ever have imagined.

Thus began a vision to address people’s physical and spiritual needs in unique and practical ways, to take God’s love to the darkest corners of Skid Row, to victims of sex trafficking and domestic violence, to desperate addicts, to foster children, to homeless men, women and families, to those who hunger for food and for hope.

Since that moment, Bethel Temple has transformed into a servant-driven ministry that is now known as The Dream Center. Pastor Matthew went on to also serve as senior pastor of the historic Angelus Temple, which combined forces with The Dream Center in 2001.