Many old-timers look back with nostalgia to the Front and Burnside church. Some speak of it as the “Old Mission Hall.” Some call it “The Old Home-stead”; others refer to it as “The Old Powerhouse”; but it is better known as “The Lighthouse by the Bridge.”

Being situated at the west end of the poorly-lighted old span across the Willamette River, its location was ideal. Many a weary, discouraged soul on his way to jump over the bridge into the dark waters was attracted by the lights from the Apostolic Faith. Hearing the singing of sacred songs, they came up the stairs into a Gospel meeting, and found peace with God. In one week, seven who had planned to end their lives were saved in this “Lighthouse by the Bridge.” 

Atop this building, the first electric sign bearing the message: Jesus, The Light of the World, was erected, later being transferred to the headquarters’ building at Northwest Sixth and Burnside Streets, where it was changed to neon. Through its appearance in Portland’s evening skies, and the message it gleams forth, many have been led to Christ at both locations, the story of which will be told later in this history. 

The days at Front and Burnside were days of sweeping revivals. Three services were held on Sunday: morning, afternoon, and evening. Many of the members brought their lunches and stayed all day, the prayer meetings sometimes lasting from the close of one service to the beginning of another.  During the week, the doors swung open nightly to welcome all who came. Among those who attended were people of various nationalities, some who spoke little English. The Monday night services were devoted to German-speaking people, and the Saturday night meetings were given over to the Scandinavians. Later, the Saturday night service was designed as an “All-nations’ meetings,” and the other week-night services were English.