Our Story
Servientes in Unitate Apostolica et Veritate
United Apostolic Church International was established as a sacred Apostolic fellowship, called forth by divine purpose, ecclesiastical order, and a holy burden to restore the original Apostolic intention of the Church of Jesus Christ.
The vision of United Apostolic Church International was birthed through the prayerful conviction and Apostolic leadership of +The Most Reverend Dr. Ricky J. Phillips, of Detroit, Michigan. This vision was formed in deep reverence for the faith once delivered unto the saints, and with a solemn commitment to uphold Apostolic doctrine, spiritual discipline, holiness, unity, and Kingdom order.
In Loving Memory
Standing alongside Bishop Phillips in the founding work of this fellowship was his Bishop, the late Bishop Patrick D. Thomas of Toledo, Ohio, who faithfully served as Co-Founder and 1st Assistant Presiding Prelate of United Apostolic Church International until his untimely passing on May 30, 2026. Bishop Thomas' wisdom, covering, counsel, and Apostolic strength helped shape the early foundation and spiritual direction of this fellowship. His labor, legacy, and fatherly guidance remain forever honored within the history of UACI.
In the formation and discernment of this vision, Bishop Phillips also drew upon the counsel, wisdom, and mentorship of respected ecclesiastical leaders whom he has long regarded as close advisors and spiritual influences, including Bishop D'aldo Jones of Atlanta, Georgia; Archbishop Darel E. Chase of Louisville, Kentucky; Archbishop Rodney Chandler of Canton, Ohio; and Apostle Randolph Simmons of Texas. These men have served as sources of guidance, wisdom, and Apostolic insight in Bishop Phillips' personal and ministerial journey.
"And all that believed were together, and had all things common." Acts 2:44
United Apostolic Church International is rooted in the divine pattern of the early Church. We believe the strength of the Apostolic Church is found in unity without compromise, fellowship without disorder, and doctrine without dilution.
UACI stands upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the Chief Cornerstone. We are committed to proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ, defending the Apostolic faith, equipping the saints for the work of ministry, strengthening leaders, establishing churches, advancing holiness, and calling the people of God back to prayer, consecration, evangelism, discipleship, and sacred service.
We affirm the Apostolic message of repentance, baptism in the name of Jesus Christ, and the infilling of the Holy Ghost, according to the Scriptures. We uphold the authority of the Holy Bible, the necessity of holiness, the order of the Church, and the responsibility of the saints to contend earnestly for the faith while walking in love, humility, and spiritual power.
United Apostolic Church International is not built upon religious pageantry, political ambition, or denominational competition. It exists to serve the Body of Christ, to preserve Apostolic truth, to restore ecclesiastical order, and to unite Apostolic believers, churches, ministries, and leaders under one sacred mission.
As we move forward, we do so with reverence for those who have labored before us, honor for the legacy of Bishop Patrick D. Thomas, and obedience to the mandate of our Lord Jesus Christ. Our prayer is that the Apostolic Church would rise in unity, walk in authority, stand in holiness, and fulfill the Great Commission in this present age.
One Church. One Faith. One Lord. One Apostolic Mission. Restoring the Original Apostolic Intention