Within Dallas stands Metropolitan AME Church a beacon of faith. It welcomes those seeking Christian understanding. Metropolitan AME Dallas aims to connect with people. The church wants to encourage them on a life-enhancing Christian journey.
Metropolitan AME Church had its start in the 1870s. A dedicated group of Black men and women gathered. They met in the home of Tempie Washington to worship God. This group laid the spiritual foundation. It was for African Methodism in Austin, Texas. These Christians were concerned about education. In 1872 Paul Quinn College was founded because of this. The college was established just two years after the church organized.
Paul Quinn College first stood in Waco, Texas. Now it proudly stands in Dallas. In 1873 Metropolitan bought its first church building. Minister Frank Green was the first official pastor. The church was on the east side of San Antonio Street. This area was set aside for churches and schools in Austin.
Improvements were made to the structure over time. In November 1883 exterior walls were built. A slate roof was laid. Metropolitan was the only building owned by Negroes with a slate roof. Only the bell tower remained to be completed.
Metropolitan grew and changed in its early years. The congregation welcomed several ministers. These included Minister Frank Green Rev. Edward Hammett and Rev. Jackson. Rev. W.H. Ross and Rev. Abraham Grant also served.
On September 21, 1986 a historical marker was dedicated. Rev. Dr. David Harris was the pastor at the time. The Texas Historical Commission presented the marker. On April 23, 1987 the city changed the zoning. It went from SF-3 Family Residence to SF-Family Residence-Historical. This change applied to the church property.
Seven Projects for Progress were completed in 1995. The church acquired two lots behind the building. An elevator was installed and a baby grand piano purchased. The choir loft was extended. Thirteen stained glass windows were installed. The rear of the church was extended. This added four rooms choir room stewardess room minister’s lounge and a storage room. The sanctuary was also re-carpeted.
In 2004 Rev. N. Jordan Mkwanazi was assigned to Metropolitan. Metropolitan AME Church has had forty pastors. This was during its 143 years of existence. Each pastor helped Metropolitan become an outstanding church.
Metropolitan AME Dallas is committed to following God. It makes disciples of Jesus Christ. The goal is transformation in Dallas and the world. The church nurtures a diverse welcoming community. It emphasizes understanding the Bible. Members follow the example of Jesus. Metropolitan AME Dallas welcomes all to worship and serve God. The church shares messages of eternal hope. These messages are given by Jesus Christ.
Today Metropolitan AME Church continues its mission. It serves the Dallas community. It encourages others through a life-changing journey. Stop in and become part of this remarkable church. Experience the warmth faith and history that define Metropolitan AME Church.