Chapel History

Where It All Began

Rooted in the University’s history, the Chapel’s mission reflects Morgan State University’s longstanding commitment to nurturing the whole student (mind, body, and spirit). The mission of the University Memorial Chapel is best understood against the background of its history. The Chapel’s origins date back to 1867, when the institution was founded as the Centenary Biblical Institute by a group of dedicated African American ministers at Sharp Street Church. Originally created to prepare Black men for Christian ministry during Reconstruction, the Institute reflected the Black Church’s enduring commitments to education, spiritual formation, leadership, and social uplift. In 1890, the institution evolved into Morgan College- named in honor of Reverend Lyttleton Morgan- and later Morgan State University, while maintaining a strong foundation of spiritual support and community care.

In the 1920's the school was moved to its present site. The Morgan trustees, in 1939, decided to sell the college to the State of Maryland, making the institution a public university. The proceeds from that transaction were intentionally set aside for the construction of a center for religious activities in addition to a parsonage and an endowment. This center was named the Morgan Christian Center. The buildings were erected on a plot of land adjacent to the campus, designed by renowned African American architect Albert Irvin Cassell, and were dedicated in 1941.

Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places in 2010, and designated as a historic site by the United Methodist Commission Archives and History, the Memorial Chapel continues to adapt to the changing needs of students while remaining steadfast in its mission to offer spiritual guidance, compassion, and meaningful connection within the campus community. It is our desire for students to feel a sense of belonging each time they walk through the Chapel doors.