African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church

Also known as Mother A.M.E. Zion Church, this house of worship is one of Harlem’s great gospel churches. Founded in 1796, it has rich history of advancing black social activism and educational and religious causes. The AME Zion Church was New York State’s first black church and many parishioners and clergy members were actively involved in the in the Civil Rights Movement of the '60s.

The Freedom Church

Mother A.M.E. Zion Church had a pivotal role in the struggle for freedom from slavery. It was once known as the “Freedom Church” for the important role it served hiding escaped slaves in the Underground Railroad including Frederick Douglass, the writer and statesman who worked alongside Harriet Tubman for the abolition of slavery. Other notable congregants were abolitionist and women's rights activist Sojourner Truth and singer and social activist Paul Robeson. AME Zion Bishop Alexander Walters was instrumental in founding the NAACP.

Rousing Services

This church was first established in lower Manhattan on John Street in 1796. It relocated to Harlem in 1914, and in 1925 moved into the majestic edifice it occupies today. The Sunday services are open to visitors as well as congregants and offer a true gospel experience.

Visiting African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church in New York City

The A.M.E. Zion Church is located at 140-7 West 137th Street between Adam Clayton Powell Blvd. and Lenox Avenue in Harlem.

Location: 140-7 W. 137th Street, New York City, New York
Phone: 212-234-1544
E-mail: admin@amez.org
Support: Contact Form

Click here to visit African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church official website