The United House of Prayer for All People is a unique and historic religious organization deeply rooted in the gospel tradition and Christian salvation. Founded in 1919 by Bishop C.M. “Sweet Daddy” Grace, it has grown to serve communities across the United States, especially in urban areas with a strong focus on inner-city ministry and community outreach programs.
Known for its vibrant worship style, including shout bands and lively church parades, the church blends powerful spiritual experiences with active community development. Today, it stands as a vital part of many historic African American churches, offering not just worship but also support through scholarship funds, affordable housing projects, and day care centers.
What Is the United House of Prayer for All People?
The United House of Prayer for All People is a Christian church with roots going back to 1919. It was founded by a man known as Bishop C.M. “Sweet Daddy” Grace in West Wareham, Massachusetts. His goal was to build a house where anyone—no matter their race, status, or background—could worship freely. This church is different from many others. It teaches non-Trinitarian beliefs and places strong focus on holiness, healing, and the authority of its bishop.
The church today operates across the United States, with locations in 29 states. It is well-known for its lively services, strong leadership, and major presence in inner-city ministry. The church teaches that Christian salvation is found in the name of Jesus Christ, based on Acts 4:10-12, and that it is built on the foundation of apostles and prophets, following Ephesians 2:20.
The Vision and Legacy of Bishop C.M. “Sweet Daddy” Grace
Bishop C.M. Grace, also known as “Sweet Daddy,” was a unique man with a bold vision. He came from Cape Verde and preached that God’s house should be open to all people. He traveled city to city, building churches and holding large revival meetings where people came to be healed and saved. His message was clear: faith and power could change lives.
He also launched many religious products, like Grace Soap and Grace Tea, which helped fund church efforts. His bold clothing, long hair, and powerful sermons drew both followers and critics. But his work was lasting. He laid the foundation for a church that would continue long after him. His legacy is alive in every worship center, outreach program, and Sunday sermon held across America.
Leadership Through the Years: Bishops Who Shaped the Movement
After Bishop Grace passed, leadership passed to strong men who carried the flame. One of the most important was Bishop Walter McCollough, who expanded the church nationwide. He was followed by Bishop Samuel Christian Madison, and later Bishop C.M. Bailey (Sweet Daddy Bailey). Each of them brought change, while staying true to the faith.
Today, the church is led by Bishop A.D. Cunningham. This peaceful religious leader succession has helped the church grow steadily and avoid splits. Each bishop is known as a spiritual leader with great authority and respect. They oversee services, construction, outreach, and spiritual teachings.
Expansion Across America: Growth From 1919 to Present Day
What began in West Wareham, Massachusetts now covers cities across the United States. The church saw fast growth in the 20th century, especially in areas with large Black communities. There are now over 135 churches from Charlotte, North Carolina to California.
The table below shows major expansion milestones:
| Year | Location Added |
| 1919 | West Wareham, MA |
| 1926 | New York City |
| 1942 | Washington, D.C. |
| 1951 | Charlotte, NC (Mother House) |
| 1980-2000s | Nationwide in 29 states |
This growth includes new church construction, affordable housing projects, and worship centers in major cities.
Cultural Impact on the African American Community
The United House of Prayer has always been a vital part of the African American church tradition. It gave people a place to feel safe, powerful, and connected to God. It stood strong during hard times like segregation and civil rights struggles.
This church didn’t just preach—it acted. It helped build elder living facilities, supported students with the McCollough Scholarship Fund, and created day care centers. These efforts helped people spiritually and socially. It remains one of the most respected historic African American churches in America.
Signature Traditions: Baptisms, Parades, and Worship Style
Worship at the United House of Prayer is unforgettable. There’s dancing, loud preaching, and powerful brass music from shout bands. Services are full of joy and energy. These aren’t quiet church services—they’re bold celebrations of faith.
One of the most famous traditions is fire hose baptisms, where large groups are baptized in dramatic public displays. Church parades often fill city streets with music, dancing, and preaching. These events draw crowds and bring excitement to the community.
Core Beliefs and Doctrinal Structure
The church teaches strong Christian salvation through Jesus Christ, but it has non-Trinitarian beliefs. This means they don’t teach the traditional view of the Trinity. Instead, they focus on Jesus alone as God and Savior.
It follows the teachings of Acts 4:10-12 and Ephesians 2:20. Church leaders are deeply respected, and members believe the bishop is chosen by God to lead. This strong structure has kept the church united for over 100 years.
Community Programs and Social Outreach
The church is deeply committed to helping others. Its many community outreach programs include scholarship funds, free meals, and youth activities. Many churches run day care centers, elder living facilities, and job training sites.
These efforts are part of their mission to build strong neighborhoods. They also support community development with affordable housing projects, often built near their churches. The church proves its faith through action.
Famous Locations and Headquarters of the United House of Prayer
Some of the most famous sites include:
- Charlotte, North Carolina: Known as the Mother House
- Washington, D.C. (601 M Street NW): Also called God’s White House
These places host national gatherings and large events. They are also listed on guides like the Cultural Tourism DC African American Heritage Trail, honoring their historical value.
The Role of Music and Spiritual Expression
Music is the heartbeat of this church. The loud and joyful shout bands are like no other in America. These brass bands lead revival meetings and Sunday services with energy and power. Their sound is unique in the gospel tradition.
Worship includes dancing, clapping, and shouting. Services are filled with spiritual emotion and bold preaching. People come to feel God’s presence—and they do.
Controversies and Public Perception
Like many growing churches, the United House of Prayer has faced challenges. Some critics have questioned leadership choices or financial decisions. However, the church has continued to grow and serve despite controversy.
Public perception remains mostly positive, especially in the African American community, where the church is seen as a lifeline for both spiritual and everyday needs. Many admire its strength, unity, and lasting presence.
The Modern Era Under Bishop Bailey and Bishop Cunningham
Under Bishop C.M. Bailey (Sweet Daddy Bailey), the church saw new construction, outreach, and national gatherings. He continued the bold style of Bishop Grace but added modern touches like technology and social media.
Now, Bishop A.D. Cunningham leads the church. He is focused on growth and unity. He travels often, oversees new projects, and continues building worship centers. His work honors the past but looks toward the future.
How to Visit or Connect With the United House of Prayer
You can visit churches in most major U.S. cities. The biggest locations are in Charlotte, North Carolina and Washington, D.C. (601 M Street NW). Services are open to everyone.
You can also connect online through live streams, church websites, and social media. Many churches have local events and open doors daily. If you attend, expect music, dancing, and a warm welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the United House of Prayer a Pentecostal church? It has Pentecostal style but unique teachings.
Do they believe in the Trinity? No, they follow non-Trinitarian beliefs.
Who leads the church today? Bishop A.D. Cunningham.
Can anyone attend? Yes. All are welcome.
What makes the church different? Its strong bishops, loud music, big parades, and active community work.
Final Thoughts: Why the United House of Prayer Still Matters Today
For over a century, the United House of Prayer for All People has stood strong. It’s more than a church—it’s a home, a school, and a shelter. With deep roots in faith and culture, it still reaches people today. From soul food restaurants near churches to revival meetings in big tents, the spirit lives on.
FAQs
What denomination is the United House of Prayer?
The United House of Prayer for All People is a non-Trinitarian Christian denomination focused on holiness and salvation.
What denomination is the House of Prayer for all people?
It is an independent religious group with roots in holiness and gospel tradition, distinct from mainstream Pentecostal churches.
Which bishop died in the United House of Prayer for All People?
Bishop C.M. “Sweet Daddy” Grace, the founder and spiritual leader, passed away in 1960.
What denomination is Daddy Grace?
Daddy Grace led a non-Trinitarian holiness movement through the United House of Prayer.
Is House of Prayer Pentecostal?
No, it is not traditionally Pentecostal but shares some revival meeting and worship elements similar to Pentecostal churches.
