Asbury AME Church facts for kids
Asbury AME Church is a special church in Chester, Pennsylvania. It is part of the African Methodist Episcopal Church family. This church was started a long time ago, in 1845. It was the second African Methodist Episcopal church to be founded in Chester. The first was the Union African Methodist Church, started in 1832. Today, Asbury AME Church is still an active place of worship. You can find it at 1712 Providence Avenue.
Contents
The Church's Story
How Asbury AME Church Began
Reverend Stephen Smith from Philadelphia started Asbury African Methodist Episcopal Church. He officially organized it on October 26, 1845. The very first church building was made of wood. It was located on the east side of Market Street, between Second and Third Streets.
In 1846, a couple named William and his wife Murphy joined the church. They came with a special certificate from Bethel Church in Baltimore, Maryland.
Changes and New Names
In 1863, Reverend Jeremiah Young was the minister. During his time, the church building was rebuilt. The people of the church decided to give it a new name: Asbury. This name honored Francis Asbury. He was an English missionary who helped start the Independent Methodist Episcopal Church in America.
On November 25, 1867, the Asbury Methodist Episcopal Church became officially recognized by the court. This meant it was a legal organization in Delaware County.
Moving to New Homes
In 1889, the church building at 2nd and Bevan Street was sold. For a short time, church services were held at James Hall. This hall was located on Fifth and Edgemont Avenue. A new church building was then built in 1890.
Later, in 1995, the church property at 2nd and Bevan was sold again. The church then bought a new building. This building was a United Methodist Church located at 1712 Providence Avenue. In 1996, this new location became the home of Asbury AME Church.
People Connected to Asbury AME Church
AverySunshine, a talented singer, once sang at Asbury AME Church. She performed with the Wilmington/Chester Mass Choir, which was an award-winning group.
