The Late Pastor Harlan Stilwell

Pastor Harlan founded The Living Word Inc in August of 1981 and in March of 1982, TLWI was granted non-profit status.  Under this corporation he established his first church “Temple of The Living Word” and he reorganized the church and re-named it House of Praise International Church (HOPIC) in 1989.

Pastor Harlan worked diligently to train, teach, and promote the gospel. He wanted every person to reach their full potential to become effective in the ministry.  He welcomed missions and organized teams for mission training and financial support.

HOPIC was a mobile church and met at Key Middle School in Springfield, Virginia for nearly twenty years.   Pastor was detailed, thorough, and well-organized. He made a profound statement to his set-up team “I hate confusion”.  He had a place for everything and kept everything in its place.

Pastor Harlan wrote proficiently and constantly provided literature to the congregation to explain and highlight the word of God.  He would not let a day go past as long as he was able without studying the word of God.

He was a humble man and love the Lord. He exhibited his humility by reaching out to as many and helping as many people as he could.  He never looked for anything in return, he just lived to be a blessing.

He was computer savvy and used his skills for the ministry and to bless many.  This was a plus and a treasure for the work of the ministry as well as his legacy.  His computer skills have allowed the ministry to continue with projects he started.

Pastor Harlan and his wife Doris Stilwell served in the ministry together giving to and supporting many. Pastor Harlan went to be with the Lord on August 25, 2019. Pastor Harlan is missed tremendously but he has left a lasting legacy.