ABOUT US
In 1917, Rev. Ross Rolls Fowler founded the Nondenominational Pentecostal Church at 437 National Road in Bridgeport, Ohio. After his death in 1938, Elder Raymond Judson became pastor and served until 1976, during which time the church was known as the Bridgeport Pentecostal Church.
Several ministers mentored by Rev. Fowler, including Albert Waite, went on to start churches. Waite established one in Martins Ferry, Ohio, incorporated on August 14, 1941. After negotiations with a local dairy company, the church property in Martins Ferry was exchanged for 464 Main Street, Bridgeport—ironically, adjacent to the original church.
The building at 464 Main Street in Bridgeport was built in 1887 by a Germanic Lutheran congregation and was purchased on September 10, 1968. The church was listed in the 1969-70 UPCI directory as United Pentecostal Church, and renamed Apostolic Faith Church in 1971-72. Waite remained pastor until his death in July 1983.
Afterward, James H. Stark served as overseer and became interim pastor in August 1983, commuting from Cadiz, Ohio, until moving on in 1992. Jack Sword then became pastor, assisted by Danny Brake and John Paul Hoobler. Attendance dwindled to just five.
In 1993, Steven Bell became pastor, renaming the church Gateway Apostolic Church. He led until April 2010.
Stephen Bell contacted P. David Forsythe, pastor of Abundant Life Tabernacle in Wheeling, WV to inquire if he would consider pastoring a second congregation. Following a unanimous church vote, Pastor Forsythe became the new pastor of Gateway in April 2010 and continues to serve both congregations.
OUR PASTOR
Pastor P. David Forsythe has faithfully served in ministry for over 25 years, with a calling rooted deeply in shepherding people, preaching the Word, and building strong, Spirit-led communities. He first answered the call to pastoral leadership in 2001 when he founded Abundant Life Tabernacle of Wheeling, West Virginia, where his passion for teaching truth and nurturing spiritual growth quickly became evident.
In 2010, God expanded Pastor Forsythe’s vision and entrusted him with a second congregation—Gateway Apostolic Church in Bridgeport, Ohio. Under his leadership, Gateway flourished, growing in both size and spiritual depth. His commitment to outreach, discipleship, and sound apostolic doctrine laid a firm foundation that continues to impact the region.
As the church continued to grow, Gateway Apostolic Church relocated to Yorkville, Ohio, where Pastor Forsythe continues to challenge the church to reach for more. With a heart for revival and a deep love for people, he has dedicated his life to seeing souls saved, lives transformed, and the Kingdom of God advanced.
Pastor Forsythe is known for his down-to-earth preaching, compassionate leadership, and unwavering commitment to the Apostolic message. His legacy of faithfulness continues to inspire all who serve alongside him.
Pastor and Sis. Michele Forsythe have two children, Marlana Adams (Ryan) and Benjamin.
