Lomax African Methodist Episcopal Church

A church built by the very hands that had once been shackled. That’s the story of the Lomax African Methodist Episcopal Church. Right here, in the heart of Arlington, Virginia, stands a testament to faith, resilience, and community. The Lomax AME Church isn’t just a building. It’s a living embodiment of the journey of African Americans in this region. The Lomax AME Church traces its roots back to 1863, to a time when the echoes of the Civil War were still reverberating through the nation. Formerly known as Wesley Zion Church, and later Little Zion, it began in Freedman’s Village, a sanctuary for newly emancipated African Americans. Imagine those early gatherings, filled with hope and determination amidst the uncertainty of a new era. The congregation purchased land for their own church in 1874 for a mere $75, a testament to their commitment. The current structure, built in 1922, is the third church on this site. The Lomax AME Church is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a symbol of self-reliance. Congregation members themselves, including carpenter Thomas West, bricklayer Leonard Gray, and Willard Gant, who laid the footings, built this sacred space. In 1963, this very parking lot became a stage for a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. himself delivered a powerful speech right here, just before his iconic “I Have a Dream” address in Washington D.C. This church became a beacon of hope during a time of struggle, a place where voices could be heard and dreams could be shared. Even the church’s name resonates with history. It honors Bishop Thomas Henry Lomax, a prominent figure in the AME Zion Church, who played a significant role in establishing churches across the South. Inside, you’ll find a basilica-style floor plan. Two entry foyers lead into the sanctuary, where rows of pews are divided by a center and two side aisles. A grand staircase ascends to the altar, the heart of this spiritual haven. The Lomax AME Church continues to thrive today, a vibrant hub for the community and a testament to the enduring power of faith and perseverance. It’s a place where history whispers from every corner, a place where the past and the present intertwine to create a story of hope and resilience.