The History of Mason Temple
Mason Temple, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is a historic building that has served as a hub for various events and institutions over the years. The building was constructed in 1940 and was initially used as a movie theater, showing films to the local community. In the 1960s, the Church of God in Christ purchased the building and turned it into a church. Today, Mason Temple is a significant landmark and a place of worship for many.
The building’s age and history have contributed to its cultural significance, as it has been the site of several notable events. Perhaps most famously, it was at Mason Temple that Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his final speech, “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop,” just one day before his assassination. The speech is considered one of King’s most powerful and moving, and the building has since been designated a National Historic Landmark.
Mason Temple in Movies
Before it became a church, Mason Temple was a movie theater that showed films to the local community. The building’s unique architecture and history have made it a popular filming location for movies and TV shows. In the 1990s, the building was used as a location for the movie “The Firm,” starring Tom Cruise. The film crew made use of the building’s grand interior and unique exterior to create a memorable scene.
More recently, the building was used as a location for the TV series “Greenleaf,” which tells the story of a family that runs a megachurch. Mason Temple serves as the location for the fictional church’s headquarters, and the building’s grandeur and history add to the show’s sense of drama and importance.
Mason Temple Church of God in Christ
Today, Mason Temple is home to the Church of God in Christ, one of the largest Pentecostal denominations in the world. The church has a rich history, and Mason Temple is an essential part of that history. The building serves as the headquarters for the denomination, and it is also a place of worship for many members.
The church’s services are known for their lively music and passionate preaching, and they attract people from all over the world. The church’s commitment to social justice and community outreach has also made it a vital institution in the Memphis area.
Mason Temple and its Age
Mason Temple is over 80 years old, and its age has contributed to its cultural significance. The building’s unique architecture and history have made it a popular destination for tourists and a symbol of the city’s rich history. The building’s age also presents challenges, as it requires ongoing maintenance and preservation efforts to ensure that it remains a vital part of the community for years to come.
Despite its age, Mason Temple remains a vibrant and essential part of the Memphis community. Its role as a cultural and religious institution continues to evolve, and it remains a symbol of hope and inspiration for many.
Mason Temple and its Connection to Milwaukee
While Mason Temple is located in Memphis, its influence extends far beyond the city limits. The church has a presence in many cities across the United States, including Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The Mason Temple Church of God in Christ in Milwaukee is a vital institution in the city’s African American community, providing spiritual guidance and community outreach programs.
The Milwaukee church has a rich history, and its connection to Mason Temple in Memphis is an essential part of that history. The two churches share a commitment to social justice and community outreach, and their partnership has helped to create positive change in both cities.
