Over 50 years ago, the Lord began working through His servant, Dorant Thompson. Like many immigrants seeking prosperity, Dorant left Jamaica during a wave of emigration to "first world" countries. He courageously ventured into unfamiliar territory, landing in England in 1961 in search of a better life. Although he had not yet accepted Christ, it was evident that God’s hand was upon him.

Later that year, Dorant attended an Apostolic church in Birmingham, under the late Bishop S.A. Dunn, and accepted Jesus Christ as his Saviour. This marked the start of a significant and transformative journey. In 1964, he relocated to Canada, married Edna Fullerton in 1966, and became an ordained minister in 1967. Answering God’s call, he began pastoring in 1970, founding the First United Church of Jesus Christ Apostolic in Toronto, Ontario.

Despite facing challenges, Pastor Thompson remained steadfast. He likened Bethlehem’s journey to Israel’s wilderness experience, emphasizing God's presence through every trial. Under his leadership, churches were established in six Canadian provinces, including British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec, and Ontario. In 1996, Bethlehem moved to a new location with seating for over 800, and in 1997, Pastor Thompson was ordained as Bishop.

Bishop Thompson’s vision is to establish churches in every major Canadian city, sharing the universal gospel that transcends all barriers of ethnicity, creed, and culture. He is committed to spreading the message of salvation to all who are willing to accept Christ.