Bishop Timothy L. Witcher and Pastor Luella P. Witcher started their ministry on July 20, 1969. At the ministry’s inception, it was named Mt. Carmel Community Church. Being a serviceman in the United States Air Force, the ministry was largely comprised of service men and women from George Air Force Base in Victorville, California. Bishop and Pastor Witcher had a deep desire to see individuals of all backgrounds and nationalities brought into the Kingdom of God. Therefore, that desire compelled them to reach outside “service” walls into the High Desert community to win souls within the region. The mission was simple: “convert as many souls as possible.” Bishop was a visionary who taught spiritual truths then that the Kingdom of God has recently come to embrace. As the church continued to expand, many military members were deployed to other parts of the United States and the world, establishing ministries under Bishop’s leadership. One of Bishop’s major convictions and goals was to unite the body of Christ irrespective of religious affiliation or denomination. He tirelessly implored ministers to pray together, fellowship together, and work together to seek the mind of Christ. In order to be an example and walk the walk of his conviction, Mt. Carmel joined forces with another local ministry in 1988 and was renamed Christian Covenant Church.

Bishop and Pastor Witcher were blessed with 6 children. Pastor Witcher stayed at home to rear their children while Bishop pursued income-producing opportunities to assist in their financial independence outside the church. Bishop was an advocate for civic engagement, encouraging members and others to vote, volunteer, and get involved in their respective communities. He led prayer at the City of Victorville Council meetings; was appointed chaplain for Victor Valley and St. Mary’s Hospitals; was a member of the Kiwanis Club; assisted in establishing a home for unwed mothers; participated in the National Day of Prayer; and participated in many local events for the benefit of charitable causes. Besides their natural children, Bishop and Pastor Witcher parented many spiritual children teaching them to grow in the fear and admonition of the Lord. Over the years, Christian Covenant Church has remained strong, dedicated, and committed to reaching the lost and dying for the sake of Jesus Christ. Much of the inspiration and focus of our leaders has been passed down through the years from the words of the Apostle Paul in 2 Timothy 2:2: “And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”