The Founder of the Apostolic Doctrine of Jesus Christ, Inc. was the late Pastor, Dora V. jones. Pastpr jones was sent by God to First Apostolic Church of Lockhart, Texas in 1979. When she arrived at the church, there were six members. The church was in need of repairs and had a mortgage debt that was far from being paid off. Under Pastor Jones' leadership the church membership grew to the point that if you did not arrive early enough, you would not have access to the seats up front. In a short period of time because of her willingness to sacrifice and give back to the church, the mortgage was paid off and the church was expanded by adding a Pastor's office and additional restroom facilities.
The church was initially under the auspices of the United Pentecostal Church, International (UPCI); however, Pastor Jones had a vision to put the church in a position to provide its own support system. This led to the formation of the Apostolic Doctrine of Jesus Christ, Inc., in the year 1985.
Along with the organization's headquarters in Lockhart, Pastor Jones established a Prayer House in San Antonio, Texas and in Cuero, Texas which exists to this day. She also established Word Apostolic Church in Easton, Texas where the Pastor is Dr. James Cotton. Although she did the work of a Bishop, Overseer, and Pastor...she preferred to be called "Sis. Jones". She was affectionately known to the saints she pastored as "Meme".
Pastor Dora V. Jones was well-known for her spirit of giving. She helped those in need whenever she could. Because of her personality, she never met a stranger. She had a gift to preach and teach the Word of God and did not hesitate to tell anyone about their sinful ways and the importance of living right in order to make it to heaven. She preached a strong message of living holy and many times she reminded the congregation and radio listeners that there are only two choices "heaven or hell." She preached whatever the Lord laid on her heart. She would tell you just as it was, and at the same time love you. Pastor Jones faithfully used the gifts that the Lord gave her to lead the body of Christ.
Pastor Jones was not only a woman who believed in having faith in God but she was also a poet and songwriter. On many occasions the Lord would give her an original song when she stepped to the microphone to preach. She absolutely loved music and loved to sing praises unto the Lord.
Pastor Jones truly was a powerful woman of God. All who knew her certainly remember not only the beautiful hats and suits she wore along with the matching shes and purses, but they also remember that infectious smile. She loved the Lord with all of her soul, and all of her mind. This bold soldier went home to be with the Lord on November 12th of 2004. Continuing the legacy of Pastor Jones, The ADJCI is led by her daughter, Dr. Deborah Byrd who also Pastor's the Headquarters Church (First Apostolic Church) in Lockhart, Texas.
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