Mount Olive Holy Temple

In the late 1940s, a planted seed began to germinate in the outskirts of Bridgetown. During those years, fruit began to spring forth. This led to the establishment of the Mount Olive Holy Temple – a church that within a couple of years had outgrown its building and had to seek increased accommodation. In the year 1956, a spanking new edifice was dedicated. It remains to this day the headquarters of the Barbados District of United Holy Church of America. Starting with a modest Sunday School roll of 11 scholars, the numbers doubled and tripled several times over as the years went by. Mount Olive was the first church to have transportation to carry children to and from Sunday School. The founder, Bishop Harry Gentles, known for his keen vision and profound faith in God, saw to it that much emphasis was placed on training and youth oriented programming. This paid off, for surely scores of young people gave their hearts and talents to the Lord.

Mount Olive has since been known for talented, anointed soloists, groups and choirs. History records that Evangelist Joyce Batson, Sisters Pearly Brathwaite and Sandra Sandiford, Brother Edward Rayside, The Mt. Olive Chorus Group and The Olivettes all ministered at this location. Today the church is still producing much talent in the likes of Sisters Eugenia Lynch, Sandra Harper and Alicia Lynch, Soul Purpose and their resident choir, Voices of Praise.

After Bishop Harry Gentles died on January 1, 1986, his wife, Rev. (later Bishop) Jestina Gentles assumed the pastoral duties. The church grew tremendously under her guidance. She was well respected throughout Christendom in Barbados. This humble servant was consecrated the first female Bishop in the U.H.C.A. In the year 2000, Bishop Jestina Gentles was called to higher service and the mantle of leadership was handed to another stalwart for Christ – Elder Bruce Lynch. This faithful servant ably led the church, ensuring that the membership was fed spiritual food and that an evangelistic outreach was maintained. Under his stewardship, the church underwent many structural changes. His belief that the house of God should be well kept was manifestly evident. Following Elder Lynch’s retirement from pastoral duties, Elder Ronald Odle was handed the mantle. Like those who preceded him, he has set about to ensure that the membership is provided with opportunities to grow spiritually, that an outreach ministry is emphasized and that a welcome environment is maintained for members and visitors alike. The present pleasing edifice and general environment continue to be well-kept, making this lighthouse an attractive spiritual harbour.

Pastor : Elder Ronald Odle

Pastor Tel No.: (246) 624-8751

Location : Grosvenor’s Road, Carrington’s Village, St. Michael, Barbados

Service Times

• Sunday 8:00 a.m. Worship Service 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 6:30 p.m. Evangelistic Service/Bible Study
• 4th Sunday: Men’s Fellowship
• Tuesday: 7:15 p.m. Youth Service
• Wednesday: 10:30 a.m. Prayer Ministries
• Thursday: 7:15 p.m. Missionary Service