From humble beginnings Mt Zion United African Church of the United Brethren in Christ stands tall. This church isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to faith resilience and community. Located at 5117 Chester Avenue in Philadelphia it serves as a spiritual home for many. Especially for Sierra Leonean immigrants.
The story of Mt Zion United African Church of the United Brethren in Christ begins in the early 1990s. It started as a small prayer group in New Jersey. Rev Joseph Abu Rev Billy Simbo and Edward Musa led the group. Their dedication to evangelism attracted many converts. The prayer group quickly outgrew its small apartment. A need for a church became evident.
In 1993 the group purchased a building in Jamesburg New Jersey. They named their church Faith Community Church. Pastor Abu later moved to Delaware. He felt called to start a branch in Philadelphia. With help from Rev Jessie Wellington and Bidwell Johnson they reached out to the large Sierra Leonean community. Their efforts led to another burgeoning prayer group.
By 1994 the group in Philadelphia needed a larger space. They rented a building. A few years later they purchased their current location at 5117 Chester Avenue. This building though serves a growing congregation. It’s now too small for the three hundred plus members. Mt Zion United African Church of the United Brethren in Christ dreams of a larger building. This new building would meet the community’s spiritual and physical needs. The church continues to support weddings funerals and assist new immigrants. Their work is a beacon of hope and faith.
Mt Zion United African Church of the United Brethren in Christ isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a center of community support. It’s a place where faith hope and love intertwine. It’s a place where people find solace strength and a sense of belonging. It’s a reminder that even from small beginnings great things can grow. And that faith can overcome any obstacle. So let us remember Mt Zion United African Church of the United Brethren in Christ as a symbol of perseverance and community strength.