Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church - Heritage Sanctuary

1. How old was Martin when he became a minister?

Martin received his License to Preach at the age of 17 and was ordained at 19.

2. What is a License to Preach?

In many Baptist churches the License to Preach is given to a person who shows aptitude for preaching despite age or education. Ordination is given after a period of study and includes the right to give sacraments, such as marriage and communion, as well as preach.

3. Did Coretta King attend church services at Ebenezer Baptist Church?

Mrs. King were members of Ebenezer and did attend services there.

4. Who is the pastor of Ebenezer now and is he a member of the King family?

The current pastor of Ebenezer is Rev. Raphael G. Warnock.  Rev. Warnock is not a member of the King family.

5. What is the Heritage sanctuary?

The Heritage Sanctuary is the historic Ebenezer church where Dr. King and his father and grandfather preached.

6. What is the new church building called?

The new Ebenezer church is the Horizon Sanctuary. It was completed and dedicated in 1999.

7. Is the church open for tours?

Yes. Ebenezer Heritage Sanctuary is open for tours Monday through Saturday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sundays 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. It is open until 6:00 pm summer hours. The Horizon Sanctuary is not open for tours. Visitors are welcome to attend Sunday services. Please contact Ebenezer for times.

8. Which organ was Mama King playing when she was killed?

Mama King was playing an organ to the right of the pulpit as you look at the pulpit from the back of Ebenezer. The organ in that spot now is not the original.

9. When was Mama King shot and why?