“Let there be a new and fresh anointing bestowed upon Emmanuel A.M.E. Church.” That’s what God said. We stand before Mount Zion A.M.E. Church. It stands tall on Madison Avenue. This church has a rich and vibrant history. Mount Zion’s story begins with Emmanuel Mission.
In 1921, Reverend Richard Frier, Sr. felt God’s calling. He gathered a group of devout African Methodists. Together, they formed Emmanuel Mission. It later became Emmanuel Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church. The church first settled on East 103rd Street. Great Reverends such as A.C. Clark and H.P. Heath served there.
As the congregation grew, so did their spirit. In 1941, a pivotal moment arrived. The church purchased a building at 1765 Madison Avenue. Reverend L.M. Capers led the congregation to their new home. This marked a new chapter. The church was renamed Mount Zion A.M.E. Church.
The name change symbolized more than just a new building. It represented a renewed commitment. It stood for overcoming adversity. It showed the ability to sustain faith. God’s spirit poured out on the congregation. This strengthened their bonds. It reinforced their dedication to scripture.
Mount Zion A.M.E. Church embraced diversity. It witnessed God’s work. He worked for those according to His purpose. Reverend Alvin J. Simmons pastored here. In 1950, the church paid off its mortgage. In 1953, Reverend William Lee Freeman arrived. The membership grew to 772. The Young People’s Choir was formed.
Other spiritual leaders followed. These included Reverend Wendell Foster and Reverend John G. Ragin. In 1973, Reverend Lawrence S. Odom took the helm. Then came Reverend Dr. O’Neil Mackey, Sr. and Reverend Carl F. Hunter. Later, Reverend Theodore R. Kelsey, Reverend Robert A. Brown, Sr., and Reverend Jo-An L. Owings served. Now, Reverend Kahlil G. James is the Servant Leader.
Mount Zion A.M.E. Church is moving forward. It embraces God’s strength. It accepts the outpouring of His spirit. It is seasoned with His love and mercy. Spiritual gifts are welcome here. Charity, spiritual encouragement, and diverse ministries thrive. The church offers liberation through grace.
Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church is inter-generational. It focuses on spiritual growth. It also emphasizes educational, social, and economic development. The church supports the East Harlem community. It extends its reach to surrounding neighborhoods. They teach and train. They transfer information to preserve their history. They want to strengthen their future.
They invite everyone to share in worship. The Spirit of God is evident. It is in their preaching, teaching, and praise. Mount Zion has a place for everyone.
Mount Zion is known as “The Church of Unlimited Love”. It invites all to experience God’s transforming power. This is achieved through worship and engaging teachings. The church offers evolving ministries.
The church is a community-based organization. It makes the world a better place. With the help of staff, they organize fundraisers. They host community-building events. They run youth and food programs.
The church relies on support. This comes through donations and volunteering. Spreading the word helps too. All proceeds from tickets and donations fund renovations. These include plumbing and electrical upgrades. They also plan to install an elevator and new furniture. Mount Zion A.M.E. Church continues to evolve. It honors its past. It embraces the future with faith and love.