Saint Philip A.M.E.

In the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, stands Saint Philip A.M.E. Church. This isn’t just any church. It’s the oldest A.M.E. Church in the state, a testament to faith and resilience. Saint Philip A.M.E. was founded in 1865 by Reverend A. L. Stanford at the close of the Civil War. Imagine the hope it must have offered to a community emerging from the ashes of conflict. The church’s early days were in Savannah. But its journey took a dramatic turn in September 1896 when a devastating storm reduced the original building to ruins. Undeterred, the congregation found temporary refuge in Odd Fellow’s Hall. They later purchased land in Atlanta on West Broad and Charles Streets. A new era began in 1909. The current impressive brick structure of Saint Philip A.M.E. Church was completed. This building wasn’t just modern; it was a symbol of progress, designed by a Black architect. Fast forward to 1990, Reverend Gregory Vaughn Eason, Sr. took the helm. He envisioned a church that served the whole community. Under his leadership, Saint Philip A.M.E. expanded its reach. The old parsonage was transformed into a Child Development Center in 2000. A new parsonage was built. And the church embraced media ministry, reaching out through cable television and the internet. Saint Philip A.M.E. continued to grow, adding a praise team, a youth liturgical dance group, and expanding its outreach programs. The sanctuary was renovated. All these changes reflect the unwavering faith of the Saint Philip A.M.E. community. Today, Saint Philip A.M.E. in Atlanta stands as a beacon of hope. It is a symbol of resilience. It represents the enduring power of faith and community.