The Man with the Caleb Spirit…

WLBC Homecoming and Founder’s Day 2021

Thursday, December 9, 2021

The Lord has given Bishop Groover the vision to lead the people of God to new levels in Christ. He has a “gentle” spirit and a special gift of speech that allows him to transfer his positive sense of direction to people both young and old. He uses his magnetic personality and demeanor to reach young people and serves as a drawing agent to Jesus Christ.

Our humble shepherd was born on Saturday, November 26, 1932, to the late Mr. Richard & Mrs. Hattie Groover. He is the youngest of his siblings. He attended the local schools in Greenville, Florida and the Community College in Madison, Florida. He went on to receive his Doctorate of Divinity from the University of Alabama. In November 2014 during his 51st Pastoral Anniversary, Apostle Groover was conferred an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity from the Saint Thomas Christian University.

During the 1984 International Convocation, Bishop Groover was elected as an Apostle and in 1985, to the Board of Apostles. He was now a part of the governing body of the International Organization working closely with our now Chief Apostle, Bishop William L. Bonner.

The Lord directed Apostle Bonner to initiate the Presidership Training period for the Board of Apostles. Through this, Bishop Groover served along with Bishop Wilbur Jones as Co-Presider of the Church of our Lord Jesus Christ from August 1994 to August 1995. During the 1995 General Convocation of the Church Body, Bishop Groover was elected as the new Presider of the COOLJC. From 1995 – 2001, Bishop Gentle Groover Sr. served as the Presiding Prelate of the Church of our Lord Jesus Christ. After serving 2 terms, in August 2001, the Chief Apostle of the organization appointed Bishop Groover as his Executive Assistant.

Bishop Groover’s Apostolic history began many years before his elevation to lead the international organization. He has pastored the Greater Refuge Temple in Jacksonville, Florida since its inception in the early 60s. The church has served as a beacon to thousands who have passed through its doors. He also pastors numerous other churches within the state of Florida.

He has worked diligently with the Apostle to Foreign Missions to help build churches and schools in Liberia, Ghana, India, and other countries. He has also sponsored Missionary trips to supply aid.

Bishop Groover has crossed denominational lines to share the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He has also shared the Gospel Message by way of radio and television. Over the past thirteen years, his television ministry has blessed countless numbers. As a result, many local pastors refer to him as “the Preacher’s Preacher.” We are certain the number of souls touched by his “Message of Hope and Deliverance” will not be known until we get to glory.

His ministry of “helps” and “compassion” is apparent in his countless visits to the hospitals to offer prayer for parishioners, friends, and many people he has never met. He has opened his home to those who are less fortunate. He is a strong proponent of pre-nuptial counseling as well as couples counseling after marriage and is credited with keeping many homes intact.

In the community, Bishop Groover has served on various governing boards to help facilitate safer environments and better living conditions. Many lives have been changed and influenced by his dynamic preaching, teaching, wise counsel, exemplary lifestyle, and character of integrity.

Bishop Groover was recognized by Who’s Who in the Community and is listed in the directory. He is also celebrated as Pastor of the Month in numerous magazines. “The Journey To All Things”, recently penned by the Apostle, provides step by step instructions for you to receive more than you could ever imagine. If you want to experience Matthew 7:7, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you”; in a way you’ve never imagined, this book is for you. Email JourneyToAllThings@gmail.com for you copy.

Bishop Groover’s love for the Lord is expressed in his love for people and for God’s Church. The central tenet of his ministry revolves around his commitment to prayer.