A Recognizable Voice
Sister McPherson soon had one of the most recognizable voices in the world—and not just in the church world. Every city where services were held usually had in attendance civic leaders, as well as pastors representing the local churches of every denomination.
She made sure that Angelus Temple was represented in local parades and entered floats into the famous Rose Parade in Pasadena. Her illustrated sermons attracted even those from the entertainment industry, looking to see a “show” that rivaled what Hollywood had to offer.
These famous stage productions drew people who would never have thought to enter a church; then they were presented with the message of salvation. Sister McPherson believed that the gospel was to be presented at every opportunity, and she used all the means at her disposal to present the gospel to as many people as possible.
Going Home
“Sister,” as Aimee Semple McPherson was affectionately called by the thousands to whom she ministered, went to be with the Lord on September 27, 1944, while conducting a revival service in Oakland, Calif.
A memorial service was held on her birthday, October 9, at Angelus Temple. Upon her death, her son, Rolf K. McPherson, became president of The Foursquare Church. He served in that position for 44 years, providing stability, strength and growth to the fledgling denomination that his mother left behind.
Bibliography
McPherson, Aimee Semple. 1923 (reprint 1996). This Is That. Los Angeles: Foursquare Publications. (Note: This book provided the basis for much of the content that was condensed in this chapter; specific pages are referenced as necessary.)
Van Cleave, Nathaniel M. 1994. The Vine and the Branches: A history of the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel. Los Angeles: Foursquare Publications. (Note: This book provided some of the information that was condensed for this chapter; no specific pages are referenced.)