About

Who We Are

The Founders of Forth Tabernacle

JJ and Mattie’s journey to founding Forth Tabernacle began long before the vision was revealed. Both were raised in faith—JJ’s mother served as a parish nurse at a Presbyterian church, and Mattie’s grandad was an Episcopal preacher. Their paths led them beyond the walls of the church and into the wilderness, where they sought a deeper connection with God.

Living off-grid in the desert, they poured their creativity into shaping the world around them. They sculpted concrete cacti, built a rammed earth reflection pool, and developed tools to help others—creating an ADA placard for those with invisible disabilities and an RFRA placard for those needing religious protections. Yet, despite these works, they felt an ache in their souls, knowing they were meant for something greater.

After hearing JJ speak one day, Mattie’s granddad insisted that he become a preacher and invited him to deliver a sermon at his church. Although JJ didn’t feel ready and responded with, “Someday,” the seed was planted. Now experiencing dementia, Mattie’s granddad has stepped down from the church. Within a year, JJ received a vision guiding him to begin sharing the ministry. 

Their journey wasn’t without trials. Persecution came, forcing them to flee up the coast, searching for purpose. That search led them to Venice Beach, where they served the homeless, and their hearts were forever changed. JJ sold his possessions, gave the money away to a homeless man, and opened his heart to divine providence.

In the early morning of February 11, 2025, everything shifted. JJ received a vision in his sleep—a glimpse of heaven that transformed him completely. He awoke to perfect peace, stepped outside, and heard the distant roar of the wind like a thousand semi-trucks rushing through the desert. Moments later, the stillness shattered into powerful gusts, waking Mattie. Overcome with tears, JJ shared the vision that had been placed in his heart, declaring "This world is nothing compared to what I saw!"

That vision became Forth Tabernacle—a call to open hearts to heaven on earth. Today, we walk in faith, studying scripture, communing with the outcasts of society and building a sacred space where all are welcome to experience His presence.