Welcome to the official Simon Temple AME Zion Church App

Welcome to the official Simon Temple AME Zion Church application.

Check out the latest sermons and Bible Studies and share with your friends via Twitter, Facebook, or email!

For more information about Simon Temple AME Zion Church, please visit: simontemple.com

The Simon Temple AME Zion Church app was developed by the Subsplash App Platform.

What's New in the Latest Version 6.10.11

Last updated on Jul 2, 2024

Misc media improvements

Overview:

Simon Temple AMEZ Church, a historic African Methodist Episcopal Zion (AMEZ) congregation, stands as a testament to the resilience and spiritual fortitude of the Black community in South Carolina. Founded in 1866, the church has served as a beacon of hope and a sanctuary for generations.

Historical Significance:

Following the abolition of slavery during the Civil War, newly freed African Americans sought to establish their own religious institutions. Simon Temple AMEZ Church was one of the first such churches in Charleston, South Carolina, and played a pivotal role in the development of the AMEZ denomination in the state.

The church's first building was a small frame structure located on Morris Street. In 1887, the congregation moved to its current location on Coming Street, where a larger and more elaborate brick edifice was constructed. The church's impressive architecture, featuring Gothic Revival and Victorian elements, reflects the growing prosperity and influence of the Black community in the post-Reconstruction era.

Community Involvement:

Throughout its history, Simon Temple AMEZ Church has been deeply involved in the social and economic development of its surrounding community. The church has operated a variety of outreach programs, including a soup kitchen, a clothing closet, and a youth mentorship program.

The church has also been a strong advocate for civil rights and social justice. During the Civil Rights Movement, Simon Temple AMEZ Church served as a meeting place for activists and a safe haven for those facing persecution. The church's pastor, Reverend J. Ernest Smith, was a prominent leader in the movement and worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr.

Architectural Features:

Simon Temple AMEZ Church is renowned for its architectural beauty and historical significance. The building features a striking brick facade with intricate Gothic Revival details, including pointed arch windows and buttresses. The interior of the church is equally impressive, with high vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and an ornate pulpit.

The church's bell tower, which rises above the surrounding neighborhood, is a prominent landmark in the city of Charleston. The bell, cast in 1872, has been used to call worshippers to service for over a century.

Legacy:

Simon Temple AMEZ Church continues to be a vibrant and active congregation in the Charleston community. The church's rich history, its commitment to social justice, and its architectural beauty have made it a beloved landmark and a source of pride for the African American community.

The church's legacy extends beyond its own walls, as it has inspired countless other African American congregations and played a significant role in the development of the AMEZ denomination in the United States. Simon Temple AMEZ Church remains a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Black community and a reminder of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped its history.