In response to a recent series of disasters that impacted the historic Tomlinson House in Cleveland, Tennessee, leadership from the Church of God of Prophecy International Offices today presented a $3,000 donation to homeowner David Arrington to assist with ongoing recovery and restoration efforts.
The Tomlinson House, located at 2525 Gaut Street, holds both historical and spiritual significance within the broader Church of God Movement. In January, the home sustained a small fire. While initial reports suggested minimal damage, subsequent city inspections required significant electrical repairs before power could be restored. During this delay, extremely cold temperatures caused pipes to burst, leading to additional water damage. Smoke damage from the fire has also necessitated the installation of new ductwork.
Despite these setbacks, Arrington has remained steadfast in his commitment to preserve the home and its legacy. For years, he has generously opened the doors of this historic residence to visitors free of charge, allowing countless individuals to walk through the rooms where foundational moments of our movement unfolded.
The significance of the Tomlinson House reaches back to the early twentieth century. On December 8, 1904, Pastor A.J. Tomlinson arrived in Cleveland to prepare the newly purchased residence for his family. Just days later, he recorded in his journal that his wife and daughters had joined him in the home. Though the house had reportedly been vacant due to rumors that it was haunted, Tomlinson was undeterred. The modest purchase price of $600 proved to be a blessing, and the home soon became far more than a family dwelling.
From this house, A. J. Tomlinson established what would effectively become the first general offices of the Church of God Movement. At the time, the movement consisted of only a handful of congregations. Yet from this modest home, a global vision began to take shape.
Within its walls, Tomlinson wrote, edited, and published the Church of God Evangel and the White Wing Messenger, publications that would carry the message of the movement far beyond Tennessee. The home also served as a gathering place for traveling ministers, returning missionaries, local pastors and their families, students, and even orphans. For a time, it functioned as the first dormitory for what would eventually become Lee University.
Many historians of the movement have compared the Tomlinson House to the Bonnie Brae House associated with the Azusa Street Revival, recognizing its role as a catalytic center of prayer, publishing, organization, and missionary vision. For nearly a century, it stood as an active hub of ministry, shaping the trajectory of what would become both the Church of God and the Church of God of Prophecy as global fellowships.
The donation presented today reflects the Church of God of Prophecy’s commitment to honoring its heritage while looking forward in mission. Leaders emphasized that preserving the Tomlinson House is not merely about maintaining a historic structure, but about safeguarding a testimony of faith, perseverance, and divine guidance.
The Tomlinson House remains a powerful symbol of faith, resilience, and global vision—a place where the seeds of a worldwide ministry were planted. If you would like to give to this effort, you may do so by CLICKING HERE.
