Hamlett Temple Christian Methodist Episcopal Church

A church born in a home. This is the story of Hamlett Temple Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. Hamlett Temple’s journey began not in a grand cathedral, but in the humble home of Mrs. Lovie Bandy in 1923. Located on Indiana Street near Eight Mile Road in Detroit, this small gathering marked the birth of a vibrant community of faith. Mrs. Bandy, along with a dedicated group of founders, laid the foundation for what would become a cornerstone of Detroit’s spiritual landscape. The church’s original name, Hamlett Temple Colored Methodist Episcopal Church, honored Bishop Arthur Hamlett. The Reverend S. J. Elliott guided the nascent congregation as its first pastor. In 1925, Reverend J. Black took the helm, followed by the future Bishop J. Claude Allen from 1926-1929. During Reverend Allen’s leadership, the church acquired land at the corner of Norfolk and Wisconsin. Construction began on a basement, the first step towards a permanent home. Eager to worship in a more suitable space, the congregation temporarily moved to Eight Mile Road and Greenlawn. The church building was finally completed under Reverend H. F. L. Kendrick’s guidance between 1942 and 1948. Hamlett Temple thrived for many years, experiencing growth in membership and modernizing its facilities. In 1954, the church embraced a new name, Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, reflecting a more inclusive vision. A significant turning point arrived in 1965. The city of Detroit purchased Hamlett Temple’s land for park expansion. This led to the acquisition of the Wesley Methodist Church on Wyoming Avenue in 1966. The congregation, led by Reverend Louis Johnson, worshipped in the annex while renovations were completed on the main sanctuary. The move was finalized with a celebratory procession led by Pastor Fred D. Killingham, Presiding Elder James W. Jenkins, and Bishop J. Claude Allen. Hamlett Temple continued to flourish under Reverend Norman L. Ott’s leadership starting in 1968. With a thriving youth choir and active community outreach programs, the church became a vital presence in Detroit. A remarkable feat was achieved in 1974: the church’s mortgage was paid in full. This momentous occasion was celebrated with a mortgage burning ceremony on November 23, 1975. Reverend Charles Roundtree, Reverend Doctor Frederick Long, Reverend C.A. Jones, and Reverend Kenneth Acey each contributed to Hamlett Temple’s ongoing story. In 1990, Hamlett Temple welcomed its first female pastor, Reverend Teresa Bradfield-Parker. During her eleven-year tenure, the church gained a beautiful marquee and experienced significant growth. Reverend Alexander Harvey, known for his uplifting music ministry, served from 2001-2003. He initiated the Westwood Nursing Home Ministry. Reverend Adrian Swanigan, pastor from 2003-2008, introduced Hamlett Temple’s first television broadcast. Reverend Zachary Easterly led the congregation from 2008-2009, followed by the return of Dr. Barbara Delaney in 2009. Under her leadership, restroom renovations were completed and a food distribution ministry was established. Reverend Donte Townsend guided the church through a period of mourning and transition from 2018-2019. Dr. Delaney returned as Supply Pastor in 2019, overseeing repairs and renovations. The Teresa Parker Overflow and the Reverend Doctor Robert L. Holt Fellowship Hall were dedicated, honoring key figures in Hamlett Temple’s history.