United Pentecostal Church of Cleveland
A prayer answered just in time for Christmas is how members of United Pentecostal Church of Cleveland are describing their upcoming move into a new worship space, a transition that reflects both growth and divine timing.
J.R. Ziegler, one of three board members at United Pentecostal Church of Cleveland, said the congregation has been in its current location for nearly a decade and has consistently searched for a larger space over the years. That changed unexpectedly just before the recent holiday season.
“We have been praying for a few years because we have been growing and needed a bigger building,” said Ziegler.
“Through 2025 we looked at two or three different buildings, but none of them came available,” said Ziegler. “Then, in December, we received a phone call from a pastor who had resigned from his church and felt inspired by the Lord to contact us to see if we would be interested in the building.”
Ziegler said the opportunity came at the right time and without pressure, allowing the church to move forward prayerfully rather than urgently.
“We have been where we are now for ten years, and this just worked out great for us,” said Ziegler.
The United Pentecostal Church of Cleveland was first established in a home in 2014 by Brother Everett Loper before moving into its current Highway 61 location in January 2016. Since then, the church has grown steadily, both spiritually and numerically.
“Right now we run about 35 to 37 people on average, and we have pushed 40 a couple of times,” said Ziegler.
The current sanctuary seats approximately 50 to 55 chairs, but Ziegler said once attendance reaches the mid-40s, the space becomes uncomfortable.
“When you get 45 people in there, it’s really tight,” said Ziegler.
The new building, located at the corner of Shelby and Bolivar streets in Cleveland, will nearly double seating capacity, accommodating between 105 and 110 chairs.
“That gives us room to grow, and that means a lot,” said Ziegler.
While the two congregations are not merging, Ziegler said there is hope that some members of the former church will choose to join United Pentecostal as the transition takes place.
“We feel that some of the congregation will come to our church, and we hope they will,” said Ziegler.
The church began services in the new building on January 1, while continuing to honor its lease at the current location through the month of January.
Beyond the physical move, Ziegler said the church’s mission remains focused on spiritual growth and community outreach.
“What motivates us is revival,” said Ziegler. “We want people to be ready, and our goal is to be disciples and help make disciples.”
Ziegler said one example of that commitment is the church’s weekly men’s prayer gathering, held every Tuesday morning at 5:30 a.m., which is open to all men in the community.
“That focus prayer is all about our community,” said Ziegler. “We’re praying for spiritual growth in our community. We need more men to step up and be leaders in Christ and in our communities.”
Regular worship services are held on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. and Sundays at 10:00 a.m., and Ziegler said the church welcomes anyone seeking fellowship or spiritual connection.
“We’re just excited about it,” said Ziegler. “This is a win-win opportunity for our church and for the Cleveland community. Everyone is welcome from any religion at our church. Our doors are always open.” The Pentecostal church is evolving into a new church but the mission remains the same, said Ziegler: “Saving lives and leading people to Christ.”