Bishop Alphonso Lewis Bratcher

Bishop Alphonso Bratcher is known for being direct, insightful, and for applying a humorous approach to evangelism. His ministry can be summed up in one word, “Holiness.” His staunch belief of living a purpose filled life, is grounded in his conviction of total devotion to Christ.

 

On September 1, 1957, Alphonso Lewis Bratcher was born the fourth of five children to Mr. and Mrs. Robert and Lucille Bratcher. The Way Back to Pentecost Church in Washington, DC., was his home church, where his mother was a pillar in the Missionary Department, under Elder Horace Temple. Elder Bratcher credits his spiritual fortitude and strength of wisdom, to lessons learned under Elder Temple during his early years.

 

In 1975, Alphonso Bratcher answered the Call of Duty, and joined the Army, in San Antonio, Texas. In 1977, while in San Antonio, he received the precious gift of the Holy Ghost. After returning from the Army, he met his bride to be, Sister Ann Marie Morris at “Way Back.” The two were wed May 11, 1985.

 

Approximately 25 years ago, Elder Bratcher left “Way Back” to assist with the formation of a new church; True Apostolic, under the tutelage of the late Elder Charles Plummer. He also served other ministries: Bethesda Temple under Pastor Heath, True Believers under Pastor Quick and he also assisted Gospel Ark Church. Pastor Bratcher’s ministerial contributions have been instrumental in the growth of these churches.

 

While adhering to his clerical duties, he also worked in the construction industry, as an Emergency Medical Technician, a Transportation Security Administration Screener, and a Night Auditor. Before retiring, he served as a Federal Police Officer with the Smithsonian for twelve years.

 

In 2004, Pastor Bratcher returned home to his spiritual roots at, “Way Back,” DC. Bishop-Elect, Henry Sanders, the pastor at the time, insisted Bratcher join the ministerial team. Initially, Elder Bratcher was hesitant to enter the presbytery in the pulpit, preferring to blend in with the congregation. However, his dutiful dedication and service minded attitude, vanquished any fears or anxiety about performing his commission until it ended in 2010.

 

In early 2010, Bishop-Elect Sanders, appointed Elder Bratcher to pastor Way Back To Pentecost Mission, a small congregation located on the west side of Baltimore. It was during his tenure in Baltimore, where he would cement his Pastoral acumen, prompting an upsurge in attendance. All of his ministerial observations and experiences gained from serving in other churches and missions, would equip him for the leadership role in the place where it all began.

 

July 4th, 2013, after the passing of Bishop Ronald Sanders, it was decided Elder Bratcher would be installed as Pastor of “Way Back,” Washington DC. Since 2013, Pastor Bratcher has led “Way Back,” instilling the doctrine of holiness as the fundamental practice required for entering what he calls, “the glorious finish line,” Heaven.

 

On July 27th, 2019, Elder Alphonso Bratcher was consecrated Bishop at the Apostolic Faith Fellowship International (AFFI) Conference.

 

Bishop Alphonso Bratcher is a loving husband to his wife of 34 years, Ann Marie and doting father to their four children: Sophia, Julia, Paula and Robert. He is also the proud grandfather to grandsons: Maxwell, Kameron and Jovan, two granddaughter’s, Lauren and baby Savannah-Bea, who proceeded him in death .