Embry African Methodist Episcopal Church

Did the walls of Embry African Methodist Episcopal Church whisper secrets of resilience? I wonder. Here we stand before the Embry African Methodist Episcopal Church. It’s a testament to faith and community. In the heart of College Park, Maryland, the story of Embry AME Church began not in a grand hall but in a humble home. In 1903, Samuel and Georgiana Stewart opened their doors in Lakeland, not for a social gathering, but for worship. Their home became a sanctuary. Their small group sought a spiritual anchor. They petitioned Bishop James Crawford Embry to establish a church in their community. Their request was approved. The first church building, a physical manifestation of their growing faith, was erected on Navahoe Street in 1905. The church was named in honor of Bishop Embry, a gesture of respect and gratitude. The congregation didn’t stay put for long. Driven by a vision for a brighter future, they relocated to Lakeland Road in 1918. A new church building arose on this very spot in 1920. Just two years later, in a powerful display of unity and determination, the mortgage was paid in full. The following six decades saw the Embry African Methodist Episcopal Church become a cornerstone of the Lakeland community. It was a beacon of hope and a place of spiritual nourishment. Organizations like the Missionary Society, the Stewardess Board, the Usher Board, and the Junior Choir blossomed. They added a Parish Hall, a Pastor’s study, restrooms, and a new roof, all testaments to the growing strength of the community. The members of Embry AME Church didn’t just build a physical structure. They cultivated a strong sense of Christian love. The church’s legacy continued into the 21st century, embracing technology to expand its reach. Sunday worship services were livestreamed, connecting the congregation to a wider world. Even when the physical doors closed during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the spirit of Embry AME Church remained vibrant. The congregation quickly adapted, moving worship online and continuing their support. Their mission to teach, preach, and spread the word of God never faltered.