About Us

Learn more about Stone Temple Missionary Baptist Church.

To lead people into a life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ by proclaiming God's Word, developing disciples, strengthening families, serving our community, and equipping believers to fulfill their God-given purpose.

Who We Are

For more than seven decades, Stone Temple Missionary Baptist Church has been a beacon of hope in Chicago and beyond. Founded under the visionary leadership of Reverend James M. Stone, our church has faithfully proclaimed the Gospel while serving the spiritual and practical needs of our community. Located in one of Chicago's most historic church buildings, Stone Temple continues a rich legacy of worship, discipleship, outreach, and community transformation. As we celebrate the Centennial of our historic building (1926–2026), we remain committed to advancing God's Kingdom by building people through teaching, training, compassion, and service.

Our Mission

At Stone Temple Missionary Baptist Church, our mission is to Build a Church by Building People Through Teaching and Training. 

Our Vision

Our vision is to advance the Kingdom of God by lifting up Jesus Christ and developing believers who reflect His glory in every area of life. 

Our Values

Everything we do at Stone Temple is rooted in our commitment to glorify God and reflect the character of Christ. 

Serving the Chicago, IL community.

The History and Legacy of Stone Temple Church

In 1954 our founding pastor, Reverend James M. Stone, courageously followed God's leading and relocated his congregation from Chicago's South Side to 3622 West Douglas Bvld in the historic North Lawndale community. What many considered an impossible dream became a remarkable testimony of faith as a former synagogue was transformed into a vibrant Christian church and a beacon of hope for the West Side of Chicago. Under Reverend Stone's visionary leadership, Stone Temple quickly became known for an unwavering commitment to serving the community. During the Civil Rights Movement, Reverend Stone demonstrated extraordinary courage by welcoming Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to preach at Stone Temple, establishing the church as a place where faith, justice, and community transformation came together.

The leadership at Stone Temple is dedicated to serving with integrity and humility.

Meet our wonderful Pastors

Will Solomon

Lead Pastor

Pastor Will and his wife founded out church years ago. He has a true heart for the lost of this city and this area. He wants to see true change in this area and will not stop until that dream is fulfilled.

Joel Lewis

Associate Pastor

Joel is our associate pastor and main assistant to pastor Will. Anything that gets done around here, you can be sure that Joel was the mastermind behind it. We are so thankful for his heart to serve the Lord.

Carly Watson

Next Gen Pastor

Carly is our youth and young adult ministry leader. Her heart for young people is truly amazing, and she wants to see the gospel of Jesus Christ preached in schools and campuses across this city.

Lisa Chen

Kids Pastor

Lisa is our Children's Ministry Director, and has been for the past two years. Her heart for the kids of our church is truly astounding, and she has taken our children's ministry to all new heights.

Let your story begin.

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