Meet the Men Behind the Pulpit
PASTOR DOMINGO CRUZ
Founding Pastor of Templo De La Cruz
1918-1945

Pastor Domingo Cruz was the founding pastor of Templo De La Cruz. He was a dedicated man of God with an unshakeable faith and dedication to prayer and his congregation. He was a charismatic man who related to people from all walks of life and found great favor and respect within the community. He labored hard and without much "human" help built the first church building that Templo De La Cruz worshipped in. He was a great warrior for the Lord and the Gospel. Having only one leg was no barrier for him and his fiery preaching. Many times, under the anointing of the Lord, this one-legged man of God, leapt from the pulpit on his single leg and preached as though he had no handicap.

Pastor Cruz went with the Lord on May 6, 1945.

--Pastor Domingo Cruz-- Click to see photo page
PASTOR JOHN AKINO
Pastor of Templo De La Cruz
1945-1976

Pastor John Akino started his ministry as a young man assisting Pastor Domingo Cruz, the founder of “Templo De La Cruz."

In 1945 Pastor Cruz went to be with the Lord. This prompted the congregation to seek a qualified Shepherd. Without reservation the body of believers asked Pastor Akino to assume the responsibility. Under his direction and consecrated ministry, the church congregation grew and a new church building was built.

The present sanctuary was constructed under his leadership. He touched and influenced many lives.

-- Pastor John Akino -- Click to see photo page
PASTOR SAM SANCHEZ
Pastor of Templo De La Cruz
1979-1985

Pastor Sam Sanchez brought a time of healing, restoration and renewal to the Templo De La Cruz. He was a dynamic speaker and had a wonderful music ministry. During his tenure he made changes that were ahead of his time. He introduced the worship team concept, started bilingual services and much more. The church was greatly uplifted during his pastorate.

Pastor Sanchez went to be with the Lord on April 29, 2008

--Pastor Sam Sanchez-- Click to see photo page
PASTOR RICHARD K. TANON*
Pastor of Templo De La Cruz
1985-2006

Pastor Tañon was a man of integrity and vision that loved people. The Lord used this powerful and charismatic man to bring Templo De La Cruz into a “New Era” of vigor and vitality in the Spirit. Pressing on toward the vision that the Lord put on his heart, he was able to establish, restore and build many areas of ministry and outreach to our church family along with the surrounding community.

Pastor Tañon will always be known for his powerful and anointed preaching which was the highlight of his ministry.

Pastor Tañon went to be with the Lord on February 7, 2008.

*Named Pastor Emeritus of Templo De La Cruz in February 2008

--Pastor Richard Tañon-- Click to see photo page
PASTOR JOHN MASIS
Pastor of Templo De La Cruz
2006-Present

Pastor John Masis became the Senior Pastor of Templo De La Cruz in 2006 after serving as Assistant Pastor to Pastor Tanon.

The church has entered into a new season under his leadership. His integrity, vision and purpose shine forth as God’s plan for Templo continues to unfold.

Pastor Masis has caught the vision of his predecessors, and is pressing onward; running the race to win.

Templo is steadfast and secure under his leadership and with great anticipation we enter into this new season looking forward to becoming the New Testament church that God has called us to be.

The best is yet to come!!!


--- Pastor John Masis --- Click to see photo page
Home