Full Gospel Tabernacle Church — Attraction in Memphis

Attending Sunday morning service at Full Gospel Tabernacle Church in Memphis on April 21, 2024, was nothing short of a transformative experience. Under the inspiring leadership of Rev. Al Green, the atmosphere was electric with warmth and spirituality.

From the moment I stepped through the doors, I was enveloped in a sense of community and love. The congregation was vibrant, global and welcoming, embodying the spirit of togetherness that Rev. Green nurtures so beautifully. His sermon was not just a message; it was a heartfelt conversation that resonated deeply with everyone present.

With Rev. Green's unique ability to connect through music and ministry, he delivered a powerful message about the importance of John 3:16, reminding us of God’s immeasurable love for us through Jesus Christ. This foundational verse is a reminder that we are all called to love and be loved, a central theme that permeates our lives and guides us in our faith journey.

What struck me deeply was Rev. Green's courageous decision to leave the music business—where he achieved incredible fame—to pursue a higher calling as a pastor. This choice reflects his profound commitment to serving others and spreading the message of love and faith. It takes immense strength and conviction to step away from the spotlight and dedicate oneself to the spiritual needs of a community. Rev. Green’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, illustrating that true fulfillment comes from serving a greater purpose.

Rev. Al Green is more than just a Pastor; he is a beacon of light in his community and the world. His passion for uplifting others shines through in every word he speaks and every note he sings. It’s clear that his mission goes beyond the pulpit; he truly cares for the souls he serves, inspiring us all to be better and to give back.

The worship experience was beautifully uplifting, filled with soulful music that echoed the profound love of God. It was a reminder of the power of faith and the importance of coming together in worship.

I left the service feeling blessed and rejuvenated, grateful for the opportunity to witness such an amazing pastor at work. Rev. Green’s presence is a true blessing, and I wholeheartedly encourage anyone seeking a place of worship to experience the magic of Full Gospel Tabernacle. You won’t just find a church; you’ll find a family!

As the Old Negro Spiritual says, "There's a Sweet Holy Spirit in This Place...." Those words describe how you'll feel when you enter Full Gospel Tabernacle Church. So if you're ever in the Memphis area - stop by. Whether or not Rev. Green is in town that particular...

For tourists, this is a wonderful experience. You will not meet Al Green- he appears on stage midway through the service and disappears before it’s over, never to be seen again. He doesn’t shake people’s hands as they’re leaving, there isn’t a coffee hour- it’s not entirely a regular church experience. But if you want to attend a truly engaging service with stellar music, this is a treat. Tourists outnumbered regular congregants when I visited. Everyone was doing their darndest to behave respectfully. Unfortunately I left through the wrong door, which locked behind me, and I got stuck in a locked and gated yard. In banging on any door where someone might guide me out, I discovered that there is a whole weird backstage vibe. Not weird in the sense of any kind of debauchery, just that there is a certain paranoia about women throwing themselves at Bishop Green. I can’t speak to whether this has happened recently. The man is 74 and is clearly putting all his energy into the service. You can’t begrudge anyone in the operation for being protective of him. The vibe is just off- there isn’t the infrastructure in place to handle anything outside of European tourists who sit quietly in the back. So if you get turned around in a strange space and locked in the yard, you’ll be screamed at through a cracked door by someone who clearly could care less if you dehydrate to death out there in the heat. For members of the media- Don’t bother. There’s no proper way to make a media request. You’re not allowed to get an email to the office or a publicist. Really- “I can’t give that to you. I’ll get in trouble.” You’ll get a major, major runaround and end up feeling gaslit. It is a thousand times kinder to just say no than to waste people’s time and energy, but, again, if you’re not from the church or a European tourist sitting quietly in the back, you’re automatically up to no good and the church does not know how...

TURN OFF YOUR CELLPHONES when you’re in a church, people. They went off three times - and one clueless lady just let her tropical ringtone keep going... amplified with church acoustics. So disrespectful.

The service we attended was very joyous in tone (no homophobic messages) and warm and welcoming to outside visitors. The band - with guitar, bass, drums, organ and piano - is amazing. One of the female solo singers was a great blues/soul singer. My husband and I are musicians and not particularly religious. Al Green was in really good spirits until the cell phones.

But be prepared that 1) the service can take 2.5 hours and you can’t get up and leave, there’s no break (but we thought the time flew by.) 2) do NOT use flash photography and maybe just try to be in the moment and don’t photograph at all. 3) this is a Sunday sermon for the local parish where local events will be addressed - the focus is not to be a tourist attraction. 4) other pastors will be leading the service for the first half before Al Green begins to talk (and sing!)

Show respect, set aside ample time, turn off your phones, and have a really cool and...