Payne RMUE Church (James Island) Window Restoration Project

Dear friends and family,

Over time, the church has faced increasing maintenance challenges, particularly with the aging windows. We are reaching out to seek your help in ensuring that Payne R.M.U.E. Church of James Island remains a beacon of hope and support for our community. Your generous contribution will directly support the restoration of the windows in our sanctuary and church offices, helping to preserve the beauty and functionality of our sacred spaces.

Let me share a few words about our historic building. In 1880, a pivotal moment in our church's history occurred when Bishop William E. Dickerson from the African Methodist Episcopal Conference joined the freeman who originally established Payne's Chapel (i.e., Payne's Chapel Independent Church). His affiliation with us led to a significant change. Chapel Independent Church became affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal family and was renamed Payne African Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1884, Payne underwent another significant transformation. It was during this pivotal moment that Payne became a part of the Reformed Methodist Union Episcopal denomination and adopted the name that it is known today – Payne Reformed Methodist Union Episcopal Church. This change marked a significant chapter in our church's history, a testament to our reverence and respect for our past. As the congregation grew, the church underwent additional significant renovations and improvements, including the choir loft, the church's new name sign, the church steeple, and other necessary facilities.

The current members of our community continue to faithfully serve as stewards, dedicated to preserving our rich heritage and history. As we look to the future, our renovation will focus on raising funds for the meticulous restoration of the beautiful stained glass windows that adorn Payne R.M.U.E. Church. These windows have stood as silent witnesses to countless significant moments within our community, including the sacred baptisms of our children, the revered transition of our beloved church elders, jubilant celebrations of life and love, and the imparting of spiritual wisdom over many years.

Our current goal is $25,000 – but they are accepting donations of any size. This is only possible through the generous giving of those inside and outside our church who believe in and support the mission God has given us. With your generous donation, we will be able to update these historic stained glass windows that have let the light in for more than a century.

We are deeply grateful for your support in making our community a better, more faith-driven place. Thank you for your generosity and belief in our mission.

Sis. Henrietta Martin

Payne R.M.U.E. Church Window Restoration Project