The African Methodist Episcopal Church
A faith tradition born from the struggle for dignity and freedom — carrying the gospel of liberation for over two centuries.
Our Foundation
The African Methodist Episcopal Church was born out of protest against racial discrimination in the church. In 1787, Richard Allen and other African Americans walked out of St. George's Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia due to racial segregation during worship.
From this act of extraordinary courage, the AME Church emerged as the first independent Protestant denomination founded by African Americans. It stands as a testament to faith, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of justice and equality.
With over 2.5 million members worldwide across 20 Episcopal Districts, the AME Church continues its mission to minister to the spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional, and environmental needs of all people.
Motto
"God Our Father, Christ Our Redeemer, the Holy Spirit Our Comforter, Humankind Our Family"
Mission
To minister to the spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional, and environmental needs of all people by spreading Christ's liberating gospel through word and deed.
Membership
2.5M+
Members in 20 Episcopal Districts worldwide
Core Beliefs
The theological foundations that guide our worship, witness, and work in the world.
Scripture
We hold the Holy Bible as the inspired word of God and the primary authority for faith and practice.
Salvation by Grace
We affirm salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, offered freely to all people through God's grace.
Social Justice
We believe the gospel compels engagement with systemic injustice, poverty, and oppression in the world.
Community
We affirm the worth and dignity of every person and the call to love our neighbors as ourselves.
Structure of the Church
Understanding how the AME Church is organized — from local congregation to global conference.
General Conference
The supreme governing body meeting every four years, representing all AME churches globally.
Annual Conference
Each district holds Annual Conferences that oversee local churches, clergy, and district programs.
District Conference
The District Conference provides opportunities for pastors, local preachers and lay workers to evaluate the work of the local churches.
Quarterly Conference
Held every 3 months is designed to keep the Presiding Elder abreast of the operations of the local church
Church Conference
The foundation of the AME Churches — each congregation is led by a pastor appointed by the presiding bishop. A meeting of members and ministers of the local church to conduct the business of that local church
Our District
The 11th Episcopal District
The 11th Episcopal District of the AME Church encompasses the state of Florida and the common wealth of the Bahamas. Led by the Presiding Bishop, the district oversees all AME churches, clergy assignments, and district-wide ministries throughout Florida. The Florida Conference Lay Organization serves as the official lay body within the 11th District, mobilizing lay members across North Florida for service, fellowship, and spiritual growth.