“High praise and worship” aren’t just words here. They are the very foundation of the Temple of Praise International Church. Founded as Anna Johenning Baptist Church in 1916 the Temple of Praise has a rich history. It began as a training and missionary center. The Southern Baptist Convention established it. Its purpose was to serve a racially segregated area of Southeast Washington.
Anna Johenning was a local resident. She owned a thrift store. Johenning spearheaded many missionary activities. The center was named in her honor. As the African American population grew Wayside Chapel started afternoon services. These services were for African Americans. In 1969, the chapel became Johenning Baptist Church. It was named after the Baptist Center.
September 2 1991 marked a new chapter. Bishop Glen A. Staples became the third pastor. In 1993, Bishop Staples shared a vision. It included a new sanctuary. It also had community development projects. A mortgage retirement program was started. In 1998 the church mortgage was retired. In November 1998 land was purchased for a new church.
The Johenning Baptist Church shifted its format. It became interdenominational. Its name changed to Johenning Temple of Praise. Easter Sunday 2004 saw the first services. They were held at 700 Southern Avenue SE. The new sanctuary seated 2500. With its new building a new identity emerged. Johenning became the Temple of Praise Church.
The name reflected the congregation’s worship style. The Temple of Praise is known for its commitment. It is committed to worshipping God in spirit and in truth. Bishop Staples increased the church’s flock. He grew it seventy-five fold. In 1991 membership was two hundred. Now it exceeds fifteen thousand.
Bishop Staples also serves as Presiding Prelate. He oversees the Temple of Praise International Fellowship of Churches Inc. This fellowship includes over 400 churches worldwide. They are spread across multiple states and countries. Bishop Staples has licensed over 125 active pastors elders and ministers. His nurturing approach earned him the title “Pastor’s Pastor”.
In December 2007 Bishop Staples opened the “New Day” Women’s Transitional Home. It supports homeless women and their children. The 18-month program offers life skills job skills and access to education. It is the largest women’s transition home of its kind in D.C.
Dr. Sharon Staples serves alongside her husband. She is the Senior Pastor and First Lady. She is also a gifted leader and minister. She has vast experience. It includes organizational design and leadership development.
The Temple of Praise app keeps its community connected. It provides live streaming sermon access and event updates. It also has Bible study tools. You can even send prayer requests. The Temple of Praise is more than just a church. It is a beacon of hope. It’s a testament to faith. It is dedicated to community service.