ST. JOHNS DOWNTOWN

Juanita and Dr. Rudy Rasmus are distinguished pastors, authors, and humanitarians who dedicated their lives to uplifting some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. In 1992, they founded St. John’s Downtown Church, starting with just 9 members and growing it into a vibrant congregation of thousands. For 30 years, they co-pastored the church, fostering an inclusive environment where people from all walks of life came together, breaking down barriers of class, gender, and race in favor of love, recovery, and hope. In 2022, they transitioned to emeritus pastors, handing the leadership to Pastor Tiffany Tarrant, but their legacy continues to inspire and guide the community.

Thanks to the generous support from government agencies and a significant donation from the Knowles family—Tina, Beyoncé, and Solange—the church now features the Knowles Temenos Apartments. This 43-unit development offers permanent housing for formerly homeless individuals. The Temenos CDC also manages other supportive housing projects, including an 80-unit community and a 15-unit apartment for those most in need. Additionally, the Knowles-Rowland Center for Youth, built with Kelly Rowland’s help, hosts community activities and is currently aiding Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. Their latest project, the Ramus Temenos Place apartments, provides housing for young adults aging out of foster care.

In December 1992, Juanita and Rudy launched Bread of Life, Inc., starting with 500 meals a day for the homeless. Over time, this organization has transformed Downtown Houston, offering extensive support services and distributing over 9 tons of fresh produce weekly. St. John’s also provides HIV/AIDS testing through the innovative "Get Tested Project." Pastor Rudy collaborates with Beyoncé’s tours on global anti-hunger initiatives and has created programs worldwide to combat poverty. Today, Bread of Life also runs Eco Life Employment LLC, a staffing agency for those with troubled pasts, and the Amazing KMAZ 102.5fm radio station. Rudy and Juanita, married for 32 years, are proud parents of two daughters, Morgan and Ryan, and grandparents to an amazing grandson and granddaughter, with wonderful sons-in-loves’s Hamilton and Wes.