On Sunday, Oct. 20, Pastor Charles Blake II and Lady DeAndra Blake celebrated two years in their roles of Pastor and First Lady of West Angeles Church of God In Christ.
To commemorate this special occasion, congregants enjoyed an especially lively and festive morning worship service in the West Angeles Cathedral with guest speaker Pastor Chane Smith. That evening, with a powerful ‘Night of Worship’ the West Angeles family celebrated with the first service in their new Family Life Center Chapel.
The long-awaited dream of Bishop Charles E. Blake, Sr. is finally being fulfilled with the opening of the West Angeles Family Life Center. Bishop Blake and Lady Mae L. Blake, his wife and the former leader of the Women’s Affairs ministry, addressed the congregation at the inaugural service. Bishop Blake’s eldest son, Pastor Charles Blake II, continues his legacy of service inaugurating this vital new space dedicated to nurturing and strengthening families in the Crenshaw Corridor.
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The Family Life Center is strategically located in the heart of South Los Angeles directly across from the Crenshaw Metro station, reflecting West Angeles Church’s ongoing commitment to the community. The center will offer a variety of programs and services aimed at strengthening family bonds, promoting education, and fostering community connections.
The new four-story building houses classes for Christian Education, counseling sessions, support groups, fellowship for seniors, homework help for middle and high school students, college readiness classes, SAT prep, children and youth ministry, and worship services in the new state-of-the-art Chapel on the main level.
“We often think of commerce, transportation, multi-unit housing, and public art when we hear discussions about the Crenshaw Corridor,” said Pastor Charles.
“West Angeles Church is proud to add ‘family’ to this important list with the opening of the Family Life Center. The West Angeles Family Life Center is a safe space within the Crenshaw Corridor where families can grow and thrive. It is designed to be a haven where our church and community members can find uplifting programs as well as youth and family activities rooted in faith.”
Lady DeAndra Blake is the visionary behind the WestA Cafe located on the first floor of the West Angeles Family Life Center. WestA Cafe is a place for family and friends to enjoy time together over a delicious meal.
She stated, “The WestA Cafe is an extension of the West Angeles Church worship experience. It is our mission to build healthy families spiritually and physically.” In collaboration with Lady DeAndra, renowned chef Ed Harris will create unique culinary experiences presenting traditional dishes in a thoughtful and contemporary way. Menus will feature best of season ingredients rotating monthly and WestA Cafe is set to open for breakfast and lunch November 2024.
Founded in 1943 West Angeles has been a cornerstone of the Los Angeles community for decades, dedicated to spiritual growth, community service, and family support. Bishop Blake became the pastor in 1969, opened the first Crenshaw location in 1981, and moved the congregation into the West Angeles Cathedral in April 2001.
After pastoring for 53 years with the support of his wife, Lady Mae L. Blake, Bishop Charles Blake, Sr. retired, and Pastor Charles Blake II stepped into the role of senior pastor.
