Mount Zion United Methodist Church

In 1816, a bold step towards spiritual freedom was taken. A group of 125 African American congregants, both free and enslaved, left Dumbarton United Methodist Church. They founded Mount Zion United Methodist Church. This act of courage was a direct response to the prejudice and discrimination they faced. Mount Zion United Methodist Church stands as a testament to their resilience. It is the oldest African American congregation in Washington D.C. The original church, known as the Meeting House or Little Ark, was built on 27th Street in Georgetown. It became a beacon of hope, not just as a place of worship, but also as a hub for political meetings and a school. Mount Zion United Methodist Church played a vital role in the fight for freedom. It served as a station on the Underground Railroad. Runaway slaves found refuge in the church’s burial vault, hiding amongst the deceased until they could safely continue their journey north. The church’s commitment to education also shone brightly. In a time when educational opportunities for Black residents were severely limited, Mount Zion established a Sabbath School in 1823. This school taught both adults and children to read and write, fostering literacy and empowering the community. The congregation actively supported the abolition of slavery. They assisted those escaping bondage. They challenged institutions like the American Colonization Society, which sought to relocate free Black people to Liberia. The current Mount Zion United Methodist Church building on 29th Street was dedicated in 1884. This beautiful Gothic Revival structure, with its stained-glass lancet windows and soaring sanctuary, is a testament to the enduring spirit of the congregation. Even as the demographics of Georgetown shifted and gentrification threatened to displace its members, Mount Zion remained a steadfast presence. The church’s fight against discriminatory housing policies, like the Old Georgetown Act of 1950, highlighted its ongoing commitment to social justice. Today, Mount Zion United Methodist Church continues to serve the community. It provides meals to the homeless, offers educational programs, and preserves its rich history. This enduring legacy is a tribute to the 125 courageous individuals who founded this historic church. Their unwavering faith and pursuit of freedom continue to inspire generations.