What We Do

At Payne Memorial AME Church, we stand at the crossroads of faith, service, and justice. Our ministry extends beyond the walls of worship into the heart of the Waterloo community.
Through dynamic worship services, youth mentorship, educational outreach, social justice initiatives, and compassionate community programs, we work tirelessly to uplift every soul we encounter. We foster a nurturing environment where spiritual growth meets real-world action — feeding the hungry, advocating for civil rights, educating future leaders, and creating spaces for healing and hope.

Our Work Includes:

  • Spirit-filled Sunday Worship Services

  • Bible Study and Church School

  • Youth and Young Adult Ministries

  • Health and Wellness Outreach

  • Civil Rights Advocacy and Community Organizing

  • Food Assistance and Neighborhood Support Programs

At Payne Memorial, faith without works is not our way. We live, love, and labor for the betterment of all God's people.

Our Mission

“Engaging culture to experience Christ, Community, and Change.”

Our mission is simple but powerful:

  • To uplift the spiritual lives of individuals and families.

  • To serve those in need with compassion and integrity.

  • To advocate for justice, equality, and the flourishing of every member of God's creation.

At Payne Memorial, we don't just have church; we ARE the church — moving, breathing, living expressions of Christ’s love.


Founded in 1912, Payne Memorial AME Church holds the distinction of being the oldest African American congregation in Waterloo, Iowa.
Born from a powerful vision for a just and inclusive spiritual home, our church has long been a beacon of faith, activism, and resilience.
From our earliest days under Rev. I.W. Bess, leading public campaigns for dignity and access, to today’s expansive ministries, we have remained steadfast in our mission: to serve God by serving our community.

We are a proud member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, a global denomination born from the ideals of religious freedom and social justice.
Our rich history of leadership and advocacy continues to inspire new generations to walk boldly in faith, hope, and love.

At Payne Memorial AME Church, we honor our past, celebrate our present, and build a future rooted in Christ.

What We’ve Achieved

Over more than a century, Payne Memorial AME Church has achieved remarkable milestones that continue to shape Waterloo and beyond.

Today, our legacy lives on — not just in history books, but in the lives we touch every day.

  • Civil Rights Leadership: Early advocacy for equal rights, including Rev. Bess’s 1914 campaign for access to public swimming facilities for African Americans.

  • Community Empowerment: Establishment of programs like the Big Brother Mission and neighborhood clean-up campaigns.

  • Spiritual Legacy: Continuous spiritual leadership through worship, education, and pastoral care for generations.

  • Youth Development: Investment in youth ministries, scholarship opportunities, and mentoring future leaders.

  • Community Resilience: Providing essential services such as food drives, health outreach, and family support programs, especially during times of crisis.