On this date in 1961, Bishop Robert Clarence Lawson passed away. He was the founder of the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith (COOLJC), a major Pentecostal denomination. Lawson was a prominent leader in the Oneness Pentecostal movement, known for his dynamic preaching, evangelism, and church planting. Under his leadership, the church expanded significantly, establishing congregations nationwide. Refuge Temple in New York City (now known as Greater Refuge Temple) became the organization’s headquarters and a major center for Apostolic worship and teaching.

Bishop Lawson also founded the W. L. Bonner College (formerly known as the School of the Prophets) and authored numerous theological writings, helping to shape the doctrine and practices of the Apostolic Pentecostal movement. His legacy continues to impact COOLJC and the broader Pentecostal community today.