Mason Temple Church of God in Christ
Historic world headquarters of the Church of God in Christ, and the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s final speech.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Experience the full energy of COGIC
Mason Temple Church of God in Christ
Best Time
Experience the full energy of COGIC

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic world headquarters of the Church of God in Christ, and the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s final speech.
"A place of immense historical weight and powerful spiritual energy."
Check Event Schedules
Access may be limited during services or special events. Always check ahead!
Embrace the Worship
Visitors rave about the powerful worship and spiritual atmosphere. Join in!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'Mountaintop' Speech Site
Main Sanctuary
Stand where Dr. King delivered his final, prophetic speech on April 3, 1968. A truly moving historical landmark.

Church of God in Christ World Headquarters
Entire Building
Experience the vibrant spiritual center of the COGIC denomination, a place of worship and community.

Bishop C. H. Mason Statue
Exterior Grounds
Honor the founder of COGIC with a visit to his lifelike bronze statue, a testament to his legacy.

Prayer Room
Designated Area
A sacred space where many have experienced powerful prayer and spiritual renewal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Historic Mason Temple
Experience the Spiritual Heart of Memphis
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Event Schedules
Access may be limited during services or special events. Always check ahead!
Embrace the Worship
Visitors rave about the powerful worship and spiritual atmosphere. Join in!
Respect the Sacred Space
Dress modestly and be mindful of ongoing services.
Feel the History
Imagine the pivotal moments that unfolded here, especially Dr. King's speech.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Event Schedules
Access may be limited during services or special events. Always check ahead!
Embrace the Worship
Visitors rave about the powerful worship and spiritual atmosphere. Join in!
Respect the Sacred Space
Dress modestly and be mindful of ongoing services.
Feel the History
Imagine the pivotal moments that unfolded here, especially Dr. King's speech.
Photography Etiquette
Be respectful when taking photos, especially during services.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mason Temple for its profound historical significance, particularly as the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s final speech and the world headquarters of the Church of God in Christ. Many describe the worship services as incredibly powerful and spiritually uplifting, with a strong sense of community and divine presence. While some note that access can be limited during events, the overall experience is described as deeply moving and historically resonant.
"I came to see the church, as I read Dr. Martin Luther King spoke here. The church was not open when I visited, but I was able to walk around the grounds."
Katelynn Pugmire
"I NEVER WOULD OF THOUGHT I'D BE THE FIRST FO MY GENERATION AND MY SON BE THE FIRST IN HIS GENERATION TO STEP FOOT ON THIS GROUNDS OMG SOOOO MUCH HISTORY TO COGIC WE REALLY ENJOYED OURSELVES"
Shalonda Lewis
"Mason Temple COGIC is an historic building erected by the founder of the Church of God in Christ. Just standing on the property itself one can sense the history behind this grand building. It houses the headquarters of the denomination as well as a School of Theology. The inside has been preserved as close to the original design as possible including a library, prayer room and mosoleum that contains the remains of the founder. The walls are etched with the names of those who contributed to the construction and or renovation of the property. As of this writing the historical building was once again used during the organizations convocation held once a year in November. After a 12 year hiatus in Saint Louis, the Holy Convocation returned to Memphis for the 114th anniversary of its conception."
Regina Washington
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mason Temple is located at 930 Mason St, Memphis, TN 38104. It's accessible by car, and ride-sharing services are readily available in Memphis. Public transportation options might exist, but checking local transit schedules is recommended for the most up-to-date information.
Parking availability can vary, especially during large events like the Holy Convocation. It's advisable to arrive early or consider ride-sharing if you're attending a major service or event.
Yes, Mason Temple is a historic site open to visitors. While it's an active place of worship, many come to experience its historical significance and witness services.
To truly experience Mason Temple, try to attend a worship service if your schedule allows. Visitors often describe the worship as powerful and engaging.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the church, historic buildings can sometimes present challenges. It's best to contact Mason Temple in advance to inquire about accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General visits to see the exterior and grounds are typically free. However, for specific events, services, or the annual Holy Convocation, tickets or registration might be required. It's always best to check the official COGIC or Mason Temple website for event details.
Visiting hours can vary significantly due to ongoing services, events, and administrative schedules. It's highly recommended to check the official Mason Temple Church of God in Christ website or contact them directly for the most current visiting hours.
For general visits and to explore the grounds, there is usually no admission fee. However, special events or tours might have associated costs.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings or afternoons outside of major religious holidays or the annual Holy Convocation. Weekends will generally be busier due to regular services.
Tours of the interior may be available, especially outside of service times. It's advisable to inquire directly with Mason Temple about tour availability and scheduling.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Services at Mason Temple are often described as incredibly powerful, spirit-filled, and engaging, with vibrant worship and dynamic preaching. Visitors frequently mention feeling the presence of God.
Mason Temple is historically significant as the world headquarters of the Church of God in Christ and the site where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his final speech, 'I've Been to the Mountaintop.'
Key areas include the main sanctuary where Dr. King spoke, the prayer room, and the memorial to founder Bishop C. H. Mason. The overall architecture and preserved interior are also noteworthy.
It's customary to dress respectfully when attending a religious service. Many visitors opt for business casual or Sunday best attire.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to ask for permission or observe if others are taking photos. Be particularly discreet during services.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Mason Temple itself is primarily a place of worship and historical significance, so dedicated dining facilities are unlikely. However, Memphis has a vast array of restaurants nearby.
The area around Mason Temple offers various dining options, from soul food to casual eateries. Exploring nearby neighborhoods like Downtown Memphis or Midtown will provide numerous choices. Consider local Memphis BBQ or Southern cuisine.
Generally, it's best to consume food and drinks outside of the sanctuary and main worship areas to maintain the sanctity of the space. Check with the church administration if you have specific needs.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture, the statue of Bishop C. H. Mason, and the sanctuary (if permitted) are prime photo opportunities. Capturing the grandeur of the building is key.
Always be respectful. While exterior photos are generally fine, interior photography, especially during services, may be restricted. It's wise to ask for guidance.
Photos often focus on the historical significance, the impressive architecture, and the vibrant atmosphere of worship services.
For professional shoots or extensive equipment use, it's essential to obtain prior permission from Mason Temple administration to avoid disruption.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Midday can be harsh, but the interior often has good ambient light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure children are dressed respectfully if attending a service. The sheer historical weight of the location can be a powerful educational tool, sparking conversations about faith, justice, and perseverance. Always check the schedule for family-friendly events or times when the atmosphere might be more relaxed.
⛪ Devout Worshippers
Visitors consistently praise the powerful presence of God and the engaging worship style. Be prepared for an experience that is both reverent and exhilarating, with music and preaching that can move attendees to tears and shouts of praise.
🏛️ History Buffs & Civil Rights Enthusiasts
Beyond Dr. King's speech, the temple's architecture and its role as a central hub for a major denomination offer layers of historical interest. Understanding the context of the Memphis sanitation strike and the broader fight for equality adds depth to any visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Bishop C. H. Mason
His teachings and the foundational principles he laid continue to shape the spiritual lives of millions worldwide. The church's growth under his leadership was remarkable, spreading its influence across the United States and internationally. The dedication of his statue at the headquarters further solidifies his place in religious history.
Mason Temple and the Civil Rights Movement
The speech, delivered the night before his assassination, is often seen as a spiritual and historical climax to his activism. Visitors today often feel a palpable sense of history and reverence when standing in the same space where Dr. King delivered these iconic words. The temple serves as a living memorial to both the spiritual heritage of COGIC and the ongoing struggle for civil rights.
The COGIC Holy Convocation Experience
Attendees often describe the experience as deeply moving and spiritually uplifting, with a palpable sense of community and divine presence. The music, from mass choirs to soloists, is a highlight for many, creating an atmosphere of fervent praise. For those interested in experiencing the heart of COGIC, attending the Holy Convocation is an unparalleled opportunity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit