Founded in 1794 by Richard Allen and Absalom Jones, Mother Bethel AME Church is not just the first AME church—it’s the heart of Black Methodism in America. Explore its powerful history of faith, activism, and resilience.
In Philadelphia, Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church stands as a monumental symbol of Black faith and resilience. Founded in 1794, it is the first church of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) denomination and remains the oldest African American church building still in use in the United States. The history of Mother Bethel AME Church intertwines with the lives of Richard Allen and Absalom Jones, key figures in early Black Methodism.
Absalom Jones, born into slavery in 1746, was deeply involved in the early leadership of Mother Bethel. After gaining his freedom, Jones became the first African American to be ordained as a priest in the Episcopal Church. However, much like Allen, his experience with segregation in the church led him to support the creation of a separate worship space for Black Anglicans and Methodists. Jones played a vital role in the founding of the African Methodist Episcopal Church alongside Allen, helping to establish a religious community where African Americans could worship freely, without the racial discrimination they faced in predominantly white churches.
Mother Bethel’s founding in 1794 was a pivotal moment in the history of Black Christianity. Under Allen’s leadership, and with the support of figures like Jones, the church became a sanctuary not only for spiritual growth but also for social activism. The AME Church was built on principles of self-governance, and its founding allowed Black Methodists to develop their own leadership structures. This autonomy proved essential for African Americans as they faced slavery, racism, and injustice.
Over time, Mother Bethel AME became more than just a place of worship—it was a center for activism and community organizing. The church became involved in efforts to abolish slavery, support education for African Americans, and advocate for civil rights. The legacy of Mother Bethel, and the leadership of figures like Allen and Jones, shaped the way Black churches in America would approach social justice, equality, and community empowerment.
Today, Mother Bethel continues to stand as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength and faith of African American Christians. Its history not only reflects the birth of the AME Church but also the broader struggle for justice and equality in America. As we reflect on the early days of Black Methodism, we honor the vision of those who, through faith and resilience, created spaces where Black people could not only worship but also fight for freedom and equality.