For over fifty years, the Fosters have been committed to raising the quality of people’s lives in Omaha. It began with the late District Elder James P. Foster, who was pastor of the Greater Bethlehem Temple in Omaha, Nebraska in 1952. He was also the founding father of the Apostolic Movement within the region; birthing churches both locally and nationally especially in Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming. There were hundreds of souls that were brought to Christ through this Ministry.
In February of 1985, following after his father’s legacy, Minister Lance R. Foster accepted God’s call on his life and began preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In 1987 he became a licensed minister with the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. (PAW, Inc), and he faithfully served at Greater Bethlehem Temple until the Lord led him to the pastorate in August 1992. Elder Foster established New Hope Apostolic Temple (NHAT) in Omaha on November 1, 1992. New Hope Apostolic Temple held its first services at 5302 South 30th Street, with seven members and four guests.
New Hope Apostolic Temple served the needs of individuals and families by teaching them biblical principles to obtain success and prosperity. Elder Foster also served in the community by beginning his work with the Federal Gang Task Force and reaching out to the youth in the area. He became a male role model for all youth and inspired them to reach for higher goals in their lives. Elder Foster served on several educational and professional advisory boards throughout the Omaha metropolitan area.
In September of 1998, Elder Foster was promoted to Suffragan Bishop within the PAW, Inc. Acting as assistant to the Diocesan Bishop, Suffragan Bishop Foster worked with pastors, ministers, and congregations within the region. On July 31, 2001, at the summer convention of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. in Phoenix, Arizona, Suffragan Bishop Foster was promoted to Diocesan Bishop of the 8th Episcopal District, which includes the states of Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming.
By God’s purpose and design, New Hope Apostolic Temple moved on Saturday, August 31, 2001 from the comfort of its original location. But Bishop Foster found a temporary location to hold services at the Paralyzed Veterans Education Center on 7612 Maple Street. The church continued to grow there for several months when God provided the blessing of a new location.
New Hope Apostolic Temple moved to its current location of 6124 North 99th Street and held its first service on New Year’s Eve December 31, 2001. Under Bishop Foster’s leadership, the congregation has expanded and many souls have been helped greatly. NHAT is thriving as it is committed to winning souls for Christ while serving the community, though its Evangelism, Prison, Men, Women, Youth, Music, Nursing Home, and many other Ministries.
