Isn’t it amazing how a simple building can hold so much history? We are standing before Brown United Methodist Church. It is a beacon of faith and community on Capitol Hill.
Let me tell you a story about this special place. It began in 1883 with a small framed church. It was known as Mt Sinai AME Church. For ten years, it served the citizens of Northeast Washington DC.
In 1893, Bishop John Mifflin Brown had a vision. Along with Presiding Elder GR Lee and Pastor Reverend WA Johnson, he decided to build a new church. They tore down the old Mt Sinai AME Church. In its place, a new structure arose. It was named Brown Memorial AME Church to honor Bishop Brown’s leadership.
The Rev IM Gray paid off the mortgage. The church was redecorated. Brown Memorial became a landmark.
In 1959, history repeated itself. The church was torn down again to erect a newer, bigger church. Rev Alexander J Mattison and 32 members began a Building Fund. Each member donated $100. The new edifice cost over $279000. Bishop George W Baber dedicated it on June 5, 1960.
Rev Mattison and his congregation liquidated the debt by June 1970 in ten years. Brown Memorial was close to the US Capitol. It was the first to use women officers on Steward and Trustee Boards. It won awards for its youth choir and community service.
Brown Memorial AME Church has always been a friend to its neighbors. The church bought properties to benefit both members and the community. These buildings provided clothing and food to the homeless. They offered fair rental housing and meeting places for Scout Troops and civic groups. Brown has been known as the Friendly Church with the Open Door. It is also known as Holy Ghost Headquarters on Capitol Hill.
Since its beginning, 23 spiritual ministers have led Brown Memorial. Rev WA Johnson was the first Pastor. Rev Mattison served for 32 years. He was followed by Rev Edger L James, Rev Henry Y White and Rev Charles D Smith. Rev Dr Dianne D Coles served as interim Pastor.
In April 2017, Rev Dr Marlene R Mitchell became Brown’s first female pastor. In May 2023, Bishop James L Davis appointed Rev Dr Carrington Carter as the Pastor. Currently, Pastor Carter leads the people of Brown Memorial AME Church.
Many ministries have started at Brown Memorial. These include the AJ Mattison Men’s Fellowship and the Amanda J Rogers Missionary Society. Other ministries are Christian Education, Class Leaders, Congressional Care and the Lottie W Medley Lay Organization. The Manna Outreach Ministry, Music Ministry, the Social Justice and Political Action Ministry are also ministries. Furthermore, there are the Technology Ministry, Ushers, Women’s Ministry and the Youth and Young Adult Ministry.
The Lillian M Gary Scholarship Fund helps high school graduates and college students. Brown Memorial AME Church remains on Capitol Hill. It stands as a beacon of spiritual light to the community.
As you stand here, consider the countless lives touched by this church. It is a testament to faith, resilience and the power of community. Brown Memorial AME Church continues to be a vital part of Washington DC. Its legacy of service and spiritual guidance shines brightly.