Built from humble beginnings in 1894 Payne Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Church stands as a testament to faith perseverance and community. Located in Jessup Maryland not New Orleans this remarkable church emerged from the collaborative efforts of neighbors. They cleared land and constructed a place of worship. This was on land donated by the Biggs family. The original structure a modest 18×25 foot building was erected on March 29 1895. The cornerstone was laid that day. The church was named in honor of Bishop Daniel Payne a prominent figure in African Methodist Episcopal history.
Payne Memorial AME Church wasn’t just built with wood and brick it was built with the sweat and dedication of farmers and community members. Many lacked formal training in carpentry or masonry. Their combined skills and unwavering faith formed the foundation of this sacred space. The oral history recalls early leaders like Reverend Crawford and Mrs Bessie Gaither a Sunday school teacher. Mother Nancy Allen Mother Ellen Allen Mother Nora Gaither and Mrs Lula Hebron were also instrumental. These individuals shaped the church’s identity and fostered its growth.
Over the years Payne Memorial AME Church underwent several renovations and expansions. A remodeling in 1956 marked a significant upgrade. A brick addition and basement followed in 1974. Further improvements in 1980 and 1981 included updates to the foundation dining area and plumbing. In 1982 under the leadership of Reverend Harry L Seawright two indoor restrooms were added a considerable improvement for the time. The 1980s also saw the addition of stained-glass windows a new glass front and a ramp for accessibility. The parking lot was paved. Three exterior doors were installed. A stove was added to the fellowship hall in the basement.
The church’s expansion wasn’t limited to its physical structure. Under the pastorate of Reverend E Compton Jonas the church acquired 5.5 acres of land in 1984. Further expansion followed with a land donation from KMS Construction Company in 1990. Ministries flourished. These included Women’s and Men’s Fellowships ministries for married couples and singles. The church also developed ministries focused on the arts such as Liturgical Dance Drama and Mime.
In 2009 Payne Lighthouse Community Development Corporation a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization was established. This expanded the church’s outreach efforts to provide social educational and economic services. A remarkable milestone came in 2010. The church celebrated its 116th anniversary. This was also the day they burned a mortgage note. This marked the culmination of years of hard work. It signified a transition from debt to a future focused on growth.
Today Payne Memorial AME Church continues its legacy. It remains a beacon of faith community service and spiritual growth in Jessup Maryland. The church is a living testament to the enduring power of faith and the transformative impact of community. It stands proudly as a place of worship a place of hope and a place where the best is yet to come.