In summer 1946, I became pastor of Solomon's Temple.  Since that time I have watched the Temple grow spiritually, socially and economically.  However, I was concerned because of my inability to cope with the numerous problems of the large flock over which the Holy Spirit had made me overseer.  I prayed to God for an answer to this immense problem and He put in my heart "The Doctrinal Guide."  This booklet would contain all of the basic doctrines of the New Testament Church affecting the lives of the members of Refuge Temple.  

I am attempting here to reach every member of Refuge Temple and so acquaint you with the doctrine and inner functions of the church.  It is my sincere hope that in this way you will better understand how to live a holy and dedicated life through Jesus Christ.  If directed by the Holy Spirit, and motivated by divine vision and will, you will be able to live a life free from sin, free from fear.  Truth is our guide:  John 8:32 "For you shall know the truth, and the truth will make you free."  

I am hoping that every member of Refuge Temple will receive one of these Doctrinal Guides and carry it with you wherever you go.  It will supply you with answers to all of the basic doctrinal questions of the church; and will enable you to give an answer to yourself and to others who might inquire about your faith.

Our Lord Jesus Christ has immensely blessed Refuge Temple.  Yet there are those in our mist who have a contrary spirit and would like to divide us and destroy the vision that God has given His servants for the great church.  Each of us, as individuals, must personally stand firm in the faith and be true to the vision and the doctrine, so that those who would destroy us or divide us will ultimately destroy themselves.  It is important to you and to your church for you to follow me, your pastor, as I follow the leadings of the Holy Spirit.  You may not understand all that I do or say, but you may always come to me for clarity, so that you will have perfect understanding of the directions in which God is leading you.

I am dependent upon your continued prayers and support, to help me finish the work that our Lord Jesus Christ has given me to do, so that you and I together may leave the world a better place than it was when we came in to it.

Your Pastor,

Bishop William Lee Bonner