Stephens' Temple Cumberland Presbyterian Church was organized September 11, 1950, under the leadership of Rev. Oscar Stephens, from whom the church gets its name. Officers present at the time of organization included Elders C. Scott, Hines, George Bradley, George Madden and Willie Main; and Deacons Brown and Hammond Ford. Mother Marie Madden organized the Sunday School, with Earl Rodgers serving as the first Superintendent with 32 members. On Sunday, June 7, 1953, the Stephens' Temple Cumberland Presbyterian Church was dedicated at 451 Cumberland Street.

The Dedication Service was conducted in two parts. Beginning at 1:00 p.m., the Pastor, Rev. Hosea Garrett preached on the history and beliefs of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, admonishing his people that they should know what they believed. Several short talks were made by the visitors present. Rev. O. F. Bishop, Moderator of the Hiwassee Presbytery and Pastor of the St. James Church, Cleveland, Tennessee, had charge of the Dedication Service. Taking his text from Genesis 28:22, he reminded the congregation they had "manicured their nails on wash boards" to get their church. He admonished them to meet God there every Sunday and the church would be prosperous.

Stephens' Temple has made progress over the past 34 years with the help of God. Many have been added to the flock, and we have been blessed spiritually, as well as financially.

From the depths of despair at the beginning of 1952 tot he entering of their new place to worship early in 1953 to our present site in 1984, the Church has lived a thrilling history.

On the first Sunday in November 1977, at 4:00 p.m., Rev. Ernest Jefferson was installed as Pastor, and has served untiringly as our leader for the past seven years. Through his devoted service and leadership and the sincere prayers of the membership, Stephens' Temple is on the threshold of making another move to 1601 East Third Street. You see, God has truly blessed us over the past 34 years and all the praises and glory should be given to him.

From a group that was in a sea of discouragement to a people whose feet are on the solid ground of hope, this is proof that God answers the prayers of all his children.

Keep on Stephens' Temple, God is not through with us yet.
Source: "Souvenir Booklet of Dedication Services, Sunday, August 26, 1984]