Here stands Stone Temple Baptist Church. This isn’t just any church. It’s a landmark with a powerful story.
In 1926, this building was a synagogue. Jewish immigrants escaping anti-Semitism in Romania worshipped here. Later, in 1954, Reverend James Marcellus Stone bought the building. He transformed it into Stone Temple Baptist Church.
Reverend Stone led his congregation to support the civil rights movement. He probably never imagined how pivotal his church would become.
During the 1960s, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. preached here many times. Stone Temple became a hub for the Chicago Freedom Movement. King fought to end housing discrimination.
Imagine King standing at the pulpit right where we are. He spoke about housing problems and racial issues. His words echoed through these walls.
Bishop Derrick Fitzpatrick is the current leader of Stone Temple. He is the grandson of Reverend Stone. Bishop Fitzpatrick continues his grandfather’s legacy.
Mayor Daley once told African-American preachers to keep King out of Chicago. He didn’t want King in their churches. But Reverend Stone refused. He famously said, “The mayor doesn’t run my church, God does.”
King continued his message of non-violence and love here. He inspired change from this very spot. The pulpit where King stood still stands. It is a reminder of the church’s commitment to civil rights.
Stone Temple’s architecture blends Romanesque and Moorish designs. Joseph W. Cohen & Co. designed this unique structure. The light-filled sanctuary features a Star of David motif. This shows the building’s history as a synagogue.
Stone Temple maintains strong community ties. They even hosted a Sukkah Celebration in 2021. It brought together members of diverse faiths. They celebrated and worked in the Community Heritage Peace Garden.
Bishop Fitzpatrick also has a successful career outside the church. He has worked at United Chemi-Con for over 35 years. He has degrees in Engineering Physics and Theology.
His wife, Apostle Reshorna M. Fitzpatrick, is also a pastor. She founded Proceeding Word Church. Together, they make a big impact on the community.
During the pandemic, they transformed the church into a community outreach center. It became a food bank and a place for self-expression.
Reshorna started a community garden. She wanted to provide fresh produce to the neighborhood. She even created “Soup for the Soul,” offering hot meals every Monday.
Stone Temple Baptist Church is more than just a building. It is a symbol of resilience, faith, and community. It stands as a testament to the power of standing up for what is right. Its story continues to inspire hope and change today.