Greater Ecclesia Temple

Stepping inside the Greater Ecclesia Temple, one can almost hear the echoes of Bishop Walter L. Morris and his wife Ava. Their journey began in 1930. They arrived in Racine, Wisconsin, a city with only two other black churches. Undeterred, they started their own church, the Greater Ecclesia Temple. Initially, they held services in the home of Mrs. Rosetta Vault. This act of generosity allowed the fledgling congregation to take root. Later, a rented house on Racine Street became their sanctuary. Then, in 1933, a two-story house at 1321-12th Street became their first permanent home. The lower level transformed into a church, the upper level into a parsonage. Bishop Morris’s unwavering faith and powerful sermons attracted new members. The church flourished. Revivals brought waves of salvation. The congregation grew. Bishop Morris led the church until his health declined. His assistants, Elders Louis Kemp, Nesbie Allen, Thomas Elmore, and Jettie Cornett, provided crucial support. This support allowed the ministry at the “House on the Hill” to continue. As the congregation expanded, the need for a larger space became evident. In 1965, the Greater Ecclesia Temple acquired a Lutheran church at 522 N. Memorial Drive. The move was not without its challenges. However, Bishop Morris’s motto, “Have Faith in God,” guided them. The church was renamed Grace Temple. The name honored God’s grace and Mother Grace Alexander. She was a pillar of the church known for her relentless labor, fasting, and prayer. In 1970, Bishop Morris passed away, leaving a legacy of faith. In 1971, Elder Jettie L. Cornett became pastor. Under his leadership, the Greater Ecclesia Temple continued to grow. By the mid-1980s, the building was once again too small. In 1988, groundbreaking for a new edifice took place. The new sanctuary, fellowship hall, classrooms, and offices opened in 1990. The church’s name changed to Greater Ecclesia Temple, reflecting its expanding mission. In 2018, Pastor Jettie Cornett passed away, and his son, Elder Jerry Cornett, took the helm. The Greater Ecclesia Temple stands today as a testament to faith, perseverance, and community. It’s a beacon of hope, carrying on the vision of its founders.