It all began when the church was built in 1868 - 1871. It is the only structure in Baltimore designed by Thomas U. Walter, architect of the Dome and the House and Senate wings of the United States Capitol, and a founder of the American Institute of Architects.
Declared one of the 13 landmark buildings in Baltimore City, the Temple’s majestic Gothic structure and its spire does much to add attractiveness and historic value to the neighborhood. As an integral part of the Baltimore City community, the Temple has provided an array of services through its Inner City Ministry program. The doors of the Temple were opened to the sorrowful; thousands of meals have been served to the hungry, clothing has been given to the needy, the homeless have been assisted in finding shelter, visitations have been made to hospitals and jails.
The Impossible Dream (1970-1981)
Reverend William W. Payne, led by the Holy Spirit on June 20, 1970, announced his intent to resign from a congregation of twenty-three years to inaugurate a ministry to show spiritual and social concern for the rejected and neglected of the Inner City. In this “Impossible Dream” Pastor Payne envisioned a ministry in which the hungry would be fed, the naked would be clothed, the homeless would be sheltered, and the alcoholics and the drug addicts would be served and loved.
Several members of the former congregation expressed their desire to share this ministry of love and concern, and met with the pastor to pledge their support in the pursuit of this “Impossible Dream” in a meeting in the home of Pastor William Payne.
A temporary place of worship was secured by Mrs. Elizabeth Logan, which became known as the Upper Room, at 745 W. Baltimore Street. At a meeting held on September 29, 1970, Pastor Payne suggested, and it was agreed, that the name of the congregation would be The City Temple of Baltimore (Baptist). The congregation suggested that the pastor would be the Reverend William W. Payne. It was also stated at this meeting that strong emphasis would be placed on Worship, Study, Soul Winning, Tithing and Giving Service to Those In Need. All members in this ministry were urged to enroll in Sunday School.