Grace Christian Center Of Bakersfield Inc. formerly known as Grace Pentecostal Tabernacle was established in 1947 because of the Vision of Pastor George D Shaffer. Although the building has seen many changes and the name has changed ,the original vision and purpose remains the same.

We strive for a balance of Worship and God's Word in our services and welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues and the  gifts of the Spirit.

What we Believe:

* The Trinity of the Godhead; there are three distinct Divine Persons each with His own particular office and ministry, yet ONE in nature and purpose.

* Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and is the eternal Word made flesh. He has the three fold office of Prophet, Priest, and King. He is the only Head of the Church, which is His body.

* The Holy Spirit is God's agent to execute the Father's will. During this present Church age carrying out God's plan for the church. He was sent to earth, on the day of Pentecost to dwell not only with men, but in them-Acts 2. He is activley dealing with sinners, and filling believers and leading and teaching them the truth.

*That all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.

*Salvation is by grace, through faith, absolutely apart from works-Eph 2:8 & 9

* Salvation is for everyone who believes,not for a chosen number only- John 3:16. Man has a will of his own, to either accept or reject the Gift of God, Jesus Christ.

* That, when an individual accepts Christ as his personal Savior, he is born again of God and this new birth is irrevocable, and cannot be changed. Once a person becomes a Christian he cannot be lost.

* There are only two church ordinances: The Lord's Supper and Water Baptism. These are to be observed only as symbols and remembrances.

*That baptism is by immersion, and should be done in the Name of the Lord Jesus -Acts 2:37-38

*That after a person is saved (born again) he should receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the agent of the new birth, and will guide each believer into more truth. The Spirit desires to inhabit and control the whole of a man, therefore, every believer should be filled with the Holy Spirit of God. This experience is separate from Salvation and is evidenced by the believer speaking in an unknown language. Acts 2:4

Founder:

Pastor George D Shaffer

circa: 1947

Pastor Shaffer and wife Eva

standing on the church steps

circa: 1947