CMFI Tabernacle of Praise traces its roots back to August 2007, when Pastor Thomas Bechem, his wife, and a group of dedicated believers gathered at the pastor’s home, launching an ambitious evangelistic campaign driven by a prophetic call for worldwide soul-winning. Despite the distances, members from Washington, DC, and surrounding counties congregated, fueled by a passion for spreading the gospel. Initially, prayer meetings and worship services were held in various locations, with a fervent commitment to radical evangelism leading to conversions across racial divides. As the ministry gained momentum, it became evident that a more permanent base was needed, culminating in the establishment of Monday Bible studies and, eventually, the renting of an auditorium at Margaret Brent School. With divine backing and rapid growth, CMFI TOP Bowie was officially launched in August 2007, under the leadership of Pastor James Ekortah. Today, guided by the mandate of Mark 16:15, the church remains dedicated to nurturing believers and reaching the lost.

Our Pastor

Rev. Dr. Thomas Bechem became born again in October 2003. He was baptized in water and filled with the Holy Ghost thereafter. He was born in a very religious family, which made him religious but not saved (born again). He moved to Westminster, Maryland in October 2013 where he met with his childhood friend Bishop Robinson who later reintroduced him to Christ. He saw the emptiness of his life and decided to totally surrender it to Christ. His hunger for the Word increased. The more he knew the Lord, the more he became hungry for Him. He also developed a new passion and compassion for the lost souls. His focus was to win as many souls for the Lord as possible. Pastor Thomas has seen the miraculous healing hand of God in his life and others.

The Lord Jesus appeared in his room, placed His hand on his chest, and healed him from an unknown sickness. Pastor Thomas holds a doctorate degree in Divinity/Biblical Studies from My Life Theological University, Washington, DC. He also acquired postgraduate education in Biblical Studies from Christian Leadership University, Buffalo, New York, and holds an MBA in Finance/Project Management from Strayer University, Takoma Park, Maryland. Pastor Thomas also acquired a Certificate in Pastoral Ministry through the STEP Program of Eastern Mennonite University in Lancaster, PA.

He is married to Pastor Eneke Bechem who is his greatest blessing from the Lord. Together, they are blessed with four children, two princes and two princesses. By gift and calling, Pastor Thomas is an evangelist/pastor with a shepherd heart to care for the flock God entrusted in his watch. He goes above and beyond the call of ministry to see that all goes well with the flock. Pastor Thomas has been involved in evangelism and soul-winning since 2006. He was called to start a Drug and Alcohol Restoration Program in 2015, which led many of the victims, who attended the program, to repentance from their sins and acceptance of Christ.