“What began as a vision among farmers and servants?” I ask. It became Mount Moriah AME Church. This church stands as a testament to faith and perseverance.
Mount Moriah AME Church’s story started in 1885. A group of farmers had a dream. They wanted to establish a church. These were sharecroppers, cotton pickers, and domestic servants. They lived in southern Russell County. They lacked government aid and tax incentives. Support from the community was limited. They combined their meager resources. Their faith in God turned their vision into reality.
The early history of Mount Moriah AME Church is intertwined. It is buried with the forefathers upon whose shoulders we stand. The church was first established in 1885. In May 1912, Bose Evans, Tony Cook, and Pat Harmon purchased two acres of land. They were trustees of Mount Moriah. The price was $40.00. Fire destroyed the church some years later. It was rebuilt in 1941.
Imagine the bell ringing to announce a death. The members traveled by foot or horse and buggy. There was no running water in the church. Water had to be drawn from a well.
Time brought changes. In 2003, under the leadership of Thomas W. Fortson, members discussed renovations. However, the Pastor envisioned a new building. They began to work toward constructing a new edifice. Plans were made. Monies were raised. Pledges were secured. It took eight years to complete the project. Through patience and God’s grace, the new church was finished on October 19, 2010.
On January 2, 2011, the congregation marched from the old Zion to the new Zion after Church school. Pastor Rev. Thomas W. Fortson preached the first sermon. It was titled “Turn the Page.” The scripture text was from Philippians 3:12-14.
Mount Moriah African Methodist Episcopal Church is a place where a small group gathers. They share a whole lot of love. They stand on the word of God. It has been 126 years. What a blessing it is.
Mount Moriah AME Church has various ministries. These include Stewards, Trustees, and Stewardesses. There are also Choirs and a Church School. Other ministries are the Lay Organization and the Missionary Society. The Women’s Missionary Society and the Young People’s Division are vital. Ushers also play an important role.
From humble beginnings in 1959, Mount Moriah AME Church has grown. It now has over 5,000 members. This growth allowed expansion. They are now constructing a new edifice.
Mount Moriah is a bible-believing church. It focuses on teaching and keeping God’s word at the forefront of worship. This ensures that believers are built. They build the body of Christ.
Through prayer and tithing, God provided Mount Moriah with the blueprint. It is the master plan. At Mount Moriah, you will see your life transformed. You will grow from a seed into a bountiful harvest. Through various ministries, fellowship, and worship services, you will find your purpose.
The movement sweeping across MoriahCity takes worship to new heights. God has used methods and resources to bless them. These blessings promote a desire to serve Him. They allow ministry to others through testimonies. They use the various ministries offered.
They have taken their God-given talents. They used these talents in the secular world. Now, they are brought back into faith-based ministries. This helps spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. These ministries foster collaboration and motivation. They build networks. They cultivate internal and external relationships.
As you leave Mount Moriah AME Church, remember its history. Remember its commitment to faith. Remember its impact on the community. Let the story inspire you.