Asbury AME Church facts for kids
Asbury AME Church is a special church located in Chester, Pennsylvania. It was founded a long time ago, in 1845. This church is part of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) group. It was the second AME church to be established in Chester. Today, Asbury AME Church is at 1712 Providence Avenue and is an active place for people to worship.
Contents
The Story of Asbury AME Church
How It All Began
Reverend Stephen Smith from Philadelphia started Asbury African Methodist Episcopal Church. He organized the church on October 26, 1845. The first church building was a simple wooden structure. It was located on the east side of Market Street. This was between Second and Third Streets in Chester.
In 1846, William Murphy and his wife joined the church. They came with a certificate from another church in Baltimore, Maryland.
A New Name and Building
In 1863, Reverend Jeremiah Young was the minister. During his time, the church building was rebuilt. The people decided to rename the church "Asbury." This was to honor Francis Asbury, an English missionary. He helped start the Independent Methodist Episcopal Church in America.
On November 25, 1867, the Asbury Methodist Episcopal Church became officially recognized. This was done by the court of Delaware County.
Moving to a New Home
In 1889, the church building at 2nd and Bevan Street was sold. Services were then held at James Hall. This temporary location was on Fifth and Edgemont Avenue. A new church building was constructed in 1890.
Later, in 1995, the church property at 2nd and Bevan was sold again. The church then bought a United Methodist Church building. This new location was at 1712 Providence Avenue. In 1996, this became the new home for Asbury AME Church.
Famous Connections
AverySunshine, a well-known singer, once sang at Asbury AME Church. She performed with the award-winning Wilmington/Chester Mass Choir.
