Enhancing the spiritual leadership of West Angeles Church of God in Christ, Presiding Bishop Emeritus Charles E. Blake has announced the elevation of his son, Elder Charles Blake II, to co-pastor of the mega-ministry.
Culminating a joint collaboration between Bishop Blake, Jurisdictional Bishop Joe Louis Ealy, and the West Angeles Board of Directors, Bishop Blake announced that the appointment will play a critical role in helping to guide the future of West Angeles in the 21st century as the church completes several monumental projects including its Family Life Center.
“Elder Blake II has greatly contributed to the success of West Angeles by working in senior executive and administrative positions for nearly 20 years. His keen intellect and business acumen are only overshadowed by his deep love of Christ and His people,” said Bishop Blake.
“We are blessed that he is willing to assume added responsibilities in directing the growth and management of our great church and I believe God, as well as the congregation, will be highly pleased with the multitude of gifts and talents that he will bring as the co-pastor.”
Born and raised in the church, Elder Blake II possesses the experience and education to excel in his new role. Previously, he served as the assistant pastor and director of community relations at West Angeles. A graduate of Oral Robert University, he received his Master’s of Divinity degree from the Interdenominational Theological Center, which is also the alma mater of Bishop Blake.
As the son of Bishop and Lady Mae Blake, he is well acquainted with the extreme level of commitment and sacrifice required of ministers and their families. However, that knowledge has inspired him to increased service for the cause of Christ.
Reflecting on the godly example that his parents set, he said, “Bishop and Lady Mae are not only gifts to our family and the church, but also to the entire world. His legacy has little to do with attaining a large edifice and membership. He has stated, ‘If you meet the needs of God’s people, they will come to your church. If you lift, love and encourage people, then they will come.’ He is, and will continue to be, a great pastor and a role model for all.”
Elder Charles is married to Lady DeAndra Blake. They are the parents of two sons, Charles III and Julian.
The entire Blake family is actively involved at West Angeles COGIC. First Lady Mae is president of the church’s Women Affairs Organization, son Elder Lawrence is the young adult pastor, and daughter, Kimberly Blake Ludlow, is the personal assistant to Bishop and Mrs. Blake.
West Angeles COGIC is the one of the largest ministries in the nation, with a membership exceeding 20,000. Located in South Los Angeles, the congregation began worshipping in the 5,000-seat Cathedral in 2001. The stunning edifice was built from steel, granite, travertine marble, multi-colored tile mosaics and stained glass. First Lady Blake designed the building’s interior.
In October 2019, Bishop Blake announced that West Angeles had sold several properties to construct its Family Life Center, pay off the mortgage on the Cathedral, establish a financial reserve and contribute to the improvement and development of the Crenshaw Corridor.
“Paying off the Cathedral’s mortgage ensures that the Crenshaw Corridor will forever have a house of worship that cares about its community,” said Bishop Blake at the time.
