Understanding the African Methodist Episcopal Church: Beliefs, History, and Discipleship

By Mary Venable-Vaughn

The African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME Church) is more than 200 years old. It began with a brave act of peaceful protest and has grown into a powerful voice for faith, hope, and justice. Many people know the AME Church for its joyful music, strong preaching, and long history in the African American community—but there is so much more to explore.

This guide will help you understand:

• what the AME Church believes
• how it started
• how it practices discipleship
• how it helps people grow in faith
• why it matters today

What Is the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church?

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The African Methodist Episcopal Church is a Christian church that grew out of the Methodist tradition. It is known for its strong messages of hope, social justice, and community care.

Breaking down the name:

• African – It was founded by people of African descent who wanted freedom to worship. Today, members of all races are welcome.
• Methodist – It follows teachings of John Wesley, who stressed holiness, grace, and helping the poor.
• Episcopal – This means the church is led by bishops who help guide and organize its work.

What makes it special?

The AME Church teaches that:

• everyone matters
• everyone deserves dignity
• everyone can know God personally

The church blends strong faith, history, education, and service into one powerful mission.

A Deeper Look at AME Church History

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The story of the AME Church begins with a moment of courage. In the late 1700s, many churches in America treated Black worshippers unfairly. They were forced to sit in the back or in separate sections, even during prayer.

Richard Allen’s Life Before the Church

Richard Allen was born into slavery in 1760. He learned to read, write, and preach while working long, difficult hours. He preached to other enslaved people and even to the man who enslaved him.

Later, Allen worked hard to buy his freedom. This journey shaped his understanding of faith and justice.

The Turning Point: The Prayer Incident

One Sunday, Allen and another leader, Absalom Jones, knelt to pray at St. George’s Methodist Church in Philadelphia. They were pulled up from prayer and told to move because they were Black.

This moment changed everything.

Allen and others quietly stood up and walked out. They said, in their hearts,
“We will build a church of our own where everyone can worship freely.”

Major Milestones

• 1787 – The Free African Society is formed to support Black families.
• 1794 – Mother Bethel AME Church is built, the oldest AME church in the world.
• 1816 – The AME Church becomes an official denomination.
• 1816 – Richard Allen becomes the first bishop.
• 1800s–1900s – AME churches help runaway slaves, educate freed people, and support civil rights.

The AME Church and American History

The AME Church played major roles in:

• the abolition movement
• the Civil War (as chaplains and helpers)
• the Civil Rights Movement
• the fight for voting rights
• building historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs)

The church’s history is closely tied to the freedom and progress of African Americans.

How Big Is the AME Church Today?

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The AME Church is both national and international.

Current Numbers

Today, the AME Church includes:

• 2.5–3 million members worldwide
• 7,000+ congregations
• 20 Episcopal Districts
• Churches in the U.S., Canada, the Caribbean, South America, Europe, and Africa

In Africa alone, the AME Church has hundreds of thousands of members in:

• South Africa
• Liberia
• Sierra Leone
• Zimbabwe
• Nigeria
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Ghana

Educational Impact

The AME Church owns or founded several major colleges:

• Wilberforce University (1856) – first private HBCU owned and operated by African Americans.
• Morris Brown College (1881)
• Allen University (1870)
• Edward Waters University (1866)

These schools have educated thousands of pastors, teachers, doctors, and leaders.

Core Beliefs of the AME Church

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The AME Church is Christian and follows the Bible. It shares many beliefs with other Methodist and Protestant churches, but it also has its own special identity.

A. The Bible

The AME Church teaches that the Bible:

• is the inspired Word of God
• teaches how to live
• shows God’s love for all people

Example: AME sermons often explain how Bible stories relate to modern life, like dealing with stress, loving others, or finding purpose.

B. The Trinity

The church teaches that God is three-in-one:

• Father (Creator)
• Son (Jesus, the Savior)
• Holy Spirit (Helper and Guide)

C. Salvation Through Jesus

The AME Church believes:

• Jesus saves people from sin
• salvation is free
• good works are a sign of gratitude, not a way to earn heaven

D. Holy Living

Members are encouraged to:

• pray
• study the Word
• avoid harmful habits
• treat others kindly
• forgive quickly

E. Sacraments

The AME Church practices:

• Baptism – a sign of new life in Christ
• Holy Communion – remembering Jesus’ sacrifice

F. Social Justice as a Spiritual Calling

Justice is not just political; it is biblical.
The church teaches that caring for others is part of following Jesus.

What Makes the AME Church Unique?

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Here are qualities that make the AME Church stand out:

1. A Church Born Out of Resistance

No other major denomination began with a peaceful protest over unfair treatment during worship.

2. A Strong Connection to Black Culture

Its music, preaching, leadership, and community spirit reflect the African American story.

3. Methodist Roots

Class meetings, hymns, and emphasis on holiness all come from early Methodist traditions.

4. Leadership by Bishops

Bishops travel to many churches, preach, teach, and encourage pastors across their district.

5. Focus on Education

AME churches often run:

• preschools
• after-school programs
• literacy classes
• scholarship programs

6. Women in Leadership

The AME Church was one of the first denominations to ordain women. Today, women serve as pastors, elders, and bishops.

6. The AME Church and Social Justice

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Because the AME Church started as a response to injustice, it continues to stand for fairness and dignity.

A. Anti-Slavery Work

In the 1800s, many AME pastors secretly helped enslaved people escape through the Underground Railroad.

B. Civil Rights

AME churches hosted meetings, marches, and speeches for civil rights leaders like:

• Dr. King
• Rosa Parks
• Frederick Douglass (who spoke often at AME churches)
• Sojourner Truth

C. Education for Freed Slaves

After the Civil War, AME churches opened schools for children who were previously denied education.

D. Community Support Today

Modern AME churches often provide:

• tutoring
• job training
• health screenings
• food programs
• financial education
• crisis relief

Their outreach helps thousands of families every year.

Understanding Discipleship in the AME Church

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Discipleship means learning to follow Jesus daily.

1. Prayer

The church encourages:

• morning and evening prayers
• family devotions
• praying before meals
• joining prayer circles

2. Bible Study

Small groups meet weekly to read Scripture and talk about:

• forgiveness
• patience
• love
• dealing with struggles
• staying hopeful

3. Class Meetings (Small Groups)

These groups help members:

• ask questions
• share life stories
• support each other

This is one of the oldest Methodist traditions.

4. Worship

AME worship is joyful, musical, and full of praise.
People clap, sing, and respond with “Amen” or “Yes, Lord!”

5. Serving Others

Members help in:

• food drives
• clothing giveaways
• visiting the sick
• reading to children
• helping seniors

6. Living Like Jesus

Discipleship means:

• showing kindness
• telling the truth
• loving neighbors
• giving to those in need

What AME Worship Looks and Feels Like

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AME worship is known for:

• gospel choirs
• uplifting hymns
• dynamic preaching
• call-and-response moments
• warm fellowship

A service may begin with a lively song followed by Scripture, prayer, and a sermon that is both emotional and inspiring.

Children, teens, adults, and seniors all take part.

Leadership in the AME Church

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A. Pastors

Lead local churches, preach, teach, and visit members.

B. Stewards

Help manage the church’s finances and care for members in need.

C. Trustees

Take care of the church building and property.

D. Presiding Elders

Supervise a group of churches in an area.

E. Bishops

Guide several districts, ordain ministers, and shape the church’s future.

F. Women Leaders

Women serve in nearly every role, including bishop.

Education and Stewardship in the AME Church

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Education

The AME Church has always taught that learning is important for:

• personal growth
• economic strength
• leadership
• community progress

Many AME churches offer:

• reading programs
• youth tutoring
• adult education
• scholarships

Stewardship (Managing What God Gives)

Stewardship teaches people to:

• use money wisely
• save for the future
• give generously
• share resources
• help their community

This builds strong families and stronger neighborhoods.

Why People Join the AME Church

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People join the AME Church because they find:

• a loving family
• a place to grow spiritually
• powerful preaching
• meaningful service opportunities
• encouragement during hard times
• a church with deep cultural roots

Many say, “I feel at home here.”

How Members Grow Spiritually

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AME members strengthen their faith by:

• reading Scripture daily
• joining Bible studies
• praying with family
• attending worship
• volunteering locally
• participating in youth, men’s, or women’s ministries

The church believes growth happens step by step, with the help of others.

The Lasting Impact of the AME Church

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For more than 200 years, the AME Church has influenced:

• civil rights
• politics
• education
• music
• culture
• community development

Its message of hope continues to inspire people worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (Expanded)

1. Is the AME Church only for Black people?

No. Anyone can join, no matter their race or background.

2. What makes it different from other Methodist churches?

Its history of fighting racism and its independent leadership.

3. Does the AME Church teach from the Bible?

Yes. The Bible is the foundation of all teaching.

4. What should I expect at a service?

Joyful singing, heartfelt prayer, and strong preaching.

5. Can women be leaders?

Yes. Women serve as pastors, elders, and bishops.

6. What does “Episcopal” mean?

It means bishops help lead the church.

7. Does the AME Church help the community?

Absolutely—through food programs, education, health events, and more.

Final Thoughts

The African Methodist Episcopal Church is a powerful example of what faith, courage, and community can build. Born out of a desire for dignity and fairness, it has grown into a global church focused on love, justice, and spiritual growth.

Its history inspires.
Its teachings encourage.
Its mission continues.

Whether you want to study its history, join a church family, or grow in your faith, the AME Church offers a warm, meaningful place to belong.