Green Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church

Did freedom ring louder anywhere than at Green Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church? Established in Atlanta just after Emancipation in 1866, Green Temple became a beacon of hope for newly freed slaves seeking spiritual guidance and community. The church’s story begins in Summerhill, a neighborhood settled by many ex-slaves and their families. These individuals, drawn to the principles of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, yearned for a place of worship in their own community. Their prayers were answered when Elder J. A. Wood organized the first services under a brush arbor at the corner of Crumbley and Martin Streets. The congregation soon moved to a lot on Hammock Place and Martin Street, building their first church, Wood’s Chapel, named in honor of their founding pastor. The church quickly outgrew this space. Driven by a desire for a grander sanctuary, they purchased land on a higher hill. This would eventually become the site where Allen Temple stood for 75 years. Then a pastor from Rhode Island, Reverend John Yeiser, had an even greater vision. Selling the previous lot, he led the congregation to the location we know today. This larger edifice was named Allen Temple, honoring Bishop Richard Allen, founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Reverend A. S. Jackson, a renowned revivalist, brought numerous new members into the fold. His successor, Reverend Downs, completed the main auditorium and installed the church’s first organ. The church continued to expand under Reverend Whitman, who organized the first Missionary Society, and Reverend Fountain, during whose tenure 300 young people were baptized. Reverend Canady formed the “Usherettes,” an auxiliary to the Usher Association. Reverend Branch redecorated the interior and purchased a pipe organ. Reverend Tanner built a new parsonage, and Reverend Lindsay paid off the long-standing mortgage. Green Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church, having undergone a name change reflecting its growth and stature, has remained a vital force in its community. Through decades of change, the spirit of faith and resilience, kindled in those first gatherings under a brush arbor, continues to burn brightly within its walls.