MEET OUR PASTOR

 

Pastor Chez J. Lister Sr., is one of Gods humble servants, and dedicated leaders, who is an insightful visionary and a compelling teacher of God’s Word. For the past 21 years, Pastor Lister has served as the pastor of The Friendlywill Missionary Baptist Church of Los Angeles, California.

 

Pastor Lister’s story is one that truly exemplifies the plan and favor of God on your life.  In May of 1971, a social worker paid a visit to a woman who was caring for foster children.  She has with her, a little 2-year-old boy, which was in desperate need of placement. This little boy didn’t have any extra belonging, all he had, were the clothes on his back. That little boy was Pastor C. J. Lister Sr.

 

In May of 1971, by divine providence, God placed Pastor Lister under the care of Rosie M. Kyle a register foster care provider.  Mrs. Kyle, took Pastor Lister in at the age of 2 years old.  She loved him and raised him as her very own son. There is no doubt that the sovereign hand of God was orchestrating this union. 

 

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” - Jeremiah 29:11

 

God had a plan for Pastor Lister, and he was busy, working out his plan. Mrs. Kyle was already a member of the Friendlywill Missionary Baptist Church.  It was by the divine plan of God, that this little boy would be placed in her care and would one day become the pastor of her church after the passing of the churches founder, the late Rev. Lorea Johnson.

 

Pastor Lister grew up in Friendlywill Missionary Baptist church. He served in the music ministry. On May 20, 1995 at the age of 26, Pastor Lister accepted his calling into the Gospel Ministry.

 

In November of 1997, Pastor Lorea Johnson was laid to rest after 42 years of service and after much prayer and waiting to hear from the Lord, The Friendlywill Missionary Baptist Church Family installed its 2nd pastor on November 28, 1999, Pastor C. J. Lister, Sr.

 

Pastor Lister is blessed to have by his side, his beautiful and loving wife of 30 years, First Lady Tanja Lister. She is Pastor Lister’s chief advocate, and best friend. Together they are blessed with four beautiful children, Ashtyn Lister, Chez J. Lister Jr., Aaron Lister, and Taurean Lister.

 

Pastor Lister’s calling is unique and truly ordained and anointed by God. He is passionate about ministering God’s word with clarity, so that those who hear, may have understanding. He is called to encourage believers to be sure of their faith, and to hold on to the truth of God’s word.

 

Pastor Lister is a visible testimony of God grace and favor, and you can find him, every Sunday morning, standing in the holy place, on 68th street, proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ to all those who will hear Gods Word.

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