The History of Faith Center
Aimee Semple McPherson
Faith Center is part of a larger church family called Foursquare, founded by the evangelist and creative preacher Aimee Semple McPherson in Los Angeles during the 1920s. Her “Foursquare Gospel” emphasized Jesus as Savior, Healer, Baptizer in the Holy Spirit, and Soon-Coming King. Her favorite verse was, “Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).
After the construction of Angelus Temple, Foursquare churches spread across the globe. As of 2024, there are more than 1,700 churches in the U.S. and over 65,000 worldwide.
Roy Hicks Jr.
In 1952, one of these church plants began in Eugene, Oregon, called Eugene Faith Center. In 1969, under Pastor Roy Hicks Jr., the church became known as Faith Center Foursquare and grew through its focus on grace, transformation, and authentic witness.
Steve Overman
Under Pastor Steve Overman’s leadership (from 1988–2021), Faith Center continued to thrive—discipling generations, supporting other churches, and planting more than 80 new congregations. Pastor Steve continued the legacy of Faith Center being a church where people could meet Jesus wherever they were at in their lives.
Russell Joyce
In 2021, Russell Joyce became the lead pastor, moving from Brooklyn, New York, where he had planted a church. Pastor Russ helped renew Faith Center’s long-held vision — Reflecting God’s Presence, Releasing Generations. With prayer as its foundation, Faith Center continued to disciple people of all ages, plant churches, and live with a Kingdom mindset.
A.J. Swoboda
In April 2025, Pastor Russell Joyce announced his transition to a new role within Foursquare. In May 2025, A.J. Swoboda was installed as next lead pastor of Faith Center. As Faith Center enters its next era, we trust that God will continue to move powerfully through all who surrender to His will.
Learn more about the history of the Foursquare Church by visiting their website
