Have you ever heard about a church that opens its doors for everyone no matter who they are or where they come from? The United House of Prayer for All People (UHOP) is one such place. It started many years ago with a dream to build a house where every person could come and pray together. This vision began in 1919 with a man of great faith, Sweet Daddy Grace, who believed that God’s love is for all people.
In this article, we will explore how this beautiful church began, what it believes, how its leaders have guided it through the years, and what lessons we can learn for our own faith today. Let’s take a simple and heartfelt journey through the story of the United House of Prayer for All People a true home of worship, unity, and hope.
Founding & Early Vision
Every great movement starts with a small dream, and the story of the United House of Prayer for All People is no different. It began with one man’s faith and vision to build a place where everyone could come together and worship God freely. The heart of this church has always been love, prayer, and unity among all people, no matter their background or color.
Sweet Daddy Grace: Founder (1919–1960)
The United House of Prayer for All People was founded by a man named Sweet Daddy Grace in 1919. He was full of faith, kindness, and a strong desire to serve God. Born in Cape Verde, he came to America with a big dream to share God’s love with everyone. Daddy Grace started his first church in West Wareham, Massachusetts, with only a few followers. But his deep belief and loving message touched many hearts. People saw hope and healing in his words and prayers. Through his leadership, the church began to grow quickly, spreading the message that God’s house is open for all people.
From West Wareham to Washington D.C.: Spread & Expansion
What started as a small prayer group soon became a growing movement. Under Daddy Grace’s guidance, new churches were built in different cities. The message of love and unity reached many families across America. People from all walks of life joined the church, finding peace, purpose, and belonging. Eventually, the headquarters moved to Washington D.C., where the United House of Prayer for All People became a strong symbol of faith and community. Even today, the spirit of those early days continues to inspire people to worship together and trust in God’s unending grace.
Beliefs, Denomination & Unique Practices
The United House of Prayer for All People stands on a simple but powerful truth that God’s love and grace are for everyone. The church believes in prayer, faith, and living a holy life guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ. Every gathering is filled with songs, joy, and strong faith. People come together as one family, no matter where they come from. The goal is to help others grow closer to God and share His love in everyday life.
Denomination: Apostolic/Oneness Pentecostal Explained
The United House of Prayer for All People follows the Oneness Pentecostal faith, which means they believe God is one not divided into three persons but revealed as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This belief is based on the Apostolic teachings found in the Bible. The church teaches that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, and water baptism in His name. Members believe that every person can experience the Holy Spirit’s power in their life bringing peace, healing, and strength to live in God’s will.
In this denomination, worship is lively and full of joy. People express their love for God through singing, dancing, and heartfelt prayer. Their focus is not just on religion but on building a real relationship with God.
Shout Bands, Fire-Hose Baptisms & Community Outreach
The United House of Prayer for All People is known for its unique and joyful worship traditions. One of the most famous is the “shout band” a group of brass musicians who play energetic gospel music during services and parades. Their music fills the streets with life, reminding everyone that faith can be joyful and exciting.
Another remarkable practice is the public street baptism, sometimes done using a fire hose. This powerful act symbolizes cleansing, renewal, and God’s saving power. It shows that no one is too far from God’s love anyone can be washed clean and start fresh.
Beyond worship, the church also serves the community through soul food restaurants, housing projects, scholarships, and outreach programs. Their goal has always been to bring people together, support families, and spread God’s kindness in practical ways.
Leadership Through the Years
The story of the United House of Prayer for All People is also the story of its great leaders men of faith who guided the church with wisdom, love, and vision. From the early days of Sweet Daddy Grace to today’s leadership, every bishop has worked to build a stronger spiritual family and help people grow in their walk with God.
Bishop W. McCollough & Building Legacy (1960–1991)
After the passing of Daddy Grace in 1960, Bishop Walter McCollough took the lead. He brought new life and strength to the church. Under his leadership, many new Houses of Prayer were built across America. He focused on helping the poor, building affordable housing, and supporting families.
He also began programs for youth, day care centers, and senior homes showing that faith is not only about prayer but also about helping others in need. His legacy still shines in every building and program that serves the community.
Bishop S.C. Madison (1991–2008) & Academic Emphasis
When Bishop Samuel Christian Madison became the leader in 1991, he continued the vision of love and service. He placed a strong focus on education and scholarships for young members. Under his guidance, many new church buildings and community houses were built.
He also created the First Lady Scholastic Achievement Awards to encourage children to dream big and learn. His leadership brought hope, structure, and growth to the United House of Prayer for All People during his time.
Bishop C.M. Bailey (2008–2023) & Modern Era
In 2008, Bishop C.M. Bailey, lovingly called Sweet Daddy Bailey, became the new leader. He was known for his kind heart and deep faith. During his time, the church entered a new modern era using media, technology, and community events to reach more people.
He continued the tradition of unity, music, and joyful worship that the House of Prayer is famous for. Bishop Bailey passed away in 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication to God’s people.
Bishop A.D. Cunningham (2023–Present): New Chapter
In October 2023, Bishop A.D. Cunningham became the new leader of the United House of Prayer for All People. His mission is to carry forward the vision of Daddy Grace and every bishop before him to keep God’s house open for all people.
He aims to strengthen the community, uplift the youth, and spread the gospel through faith and service. Under his leadership, a new chapter has begun, filled with hope, revival, and unity.
Structure, Governance & Locations
The United House of Prayer for All People is not just one church it’s a family of believers spread across many cities in the United States. Every branch works together under a clear and loving system of leadership and care.
General Assembly, Council & Governance Model
The church is guided by its Bishop, supported by ministers, elders, and deacons. Together they form the General Assembly, which helps make important decisions and keeps the church strong and united.
There is also a General Council, made up of trusted leaders who protect the church’s mission and ensure that everything runs in order. Every decision is rooted in the teachings of Jesus and guided by prayer.
This governance model helps every local church stay connected to the main mission to love God and serve people faithfully.
137+ Houses across 29 States & Key Locations
Today, the United House of Prayer for All People has more than 137 churches in 29 states across America. The headquarters is in Washington D.C., located at 601 M Street a landmark of faith and history.
From New York to North Carolina, from Georgia to California, each House of Prayer welcomes everyone with open arms. Their soul food restaurants, outreach programs, and joyful parades bring people together in faith and fellowship.
Every church continues the same message that started in 1919 “My house shall be called a house of prayer for all people.”
What We Can Learn for Revival Today
Every church can learn something from the journey of the United House of Prayer for All People. Their message is simple a church should be open to everyone and filled with love, faith, and service. This spirit of unity is what brings real revival in today’s world.
A House of Prayer for All People – Biblical Basis
The Bible reminds us that God’s house shall be “a house of prayer for all nations” (Isaiah 56:7). The United House of Prayer truly lives by this verse. It welcomes people from every background and color, showing that worship is not about where you belong, but whom you believe in. This teaching encourages every believer to create a space of prayer, peace, and acceptance.
Lessons for Church Growth, Unity & Revival
From their story, we learn the importance of strong faith leadership, community outreach, and caring for people in need. Revival begins when hearts turn toward God together. Whether it’s through music, service, or prayer, the United House of Prayer reminds us that unity brings growth and love brings revival.
Controversies & Public Perception
Even great ministries face challenges. The United House of Prayer for All People has also seen times of misunderstanding and public criticism. But each chapter teaches something about faith under pressure.
2020 Charlotte Convocation COVID-19 Outbreak
During the 2020 pandemic, a large church gathering in Charlotte drew national attention after reports of a COVID-19 outbreak. It was a difficult time, but it showed how faith communities had to balance worship with health and safety.
Financial & Net Worth Questions
Over the years, some questions have been raised about church finances and assets. Yet, many members continue to see UHOP as a place where their offerings support community service, housing projects, and charitable works. Transparency and stewardship remain key lessons for every modern church today.
Conclusion: Living the Legacy of a House of Prayer
The story of the United House of Prayer for All People is more than history it’s a reminder of God’s dream for His people. A place where everyone is welcome, every voice is heard, and every heart finds peace in prayer. From its humble beginning in 1919 to its growth across America, this church stands as a light of unity, service, and faith.
As we look at their journey, may we ask ourselves how can we live out this legacy in our own churches and homes? Can we create spaces where everyone feels God’s love and presence, just like the House of Prayer envisioned?
Let us pray:
“Heavenly Father, make our hearts Your house of prayer. Teach us to love like You love, to serve like You serve, and to welcome all people into Your grace. Amen.”
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