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Organization
Welcome to AME Zion Church of Franklin Street
Circa. 1848:
OLDEST AFRICAN-AMERICAN CONGREGATION IN ULSTER COUNTY, NEW YORK
A.M.E. Zion Church of Kingston on Franklin Street was founded by freed Africans in 1848. The church was constructed in 1863 at the current site on 26 Franklin Street in Kingston. The church has been an integral part of Ulster County's African-American community, our history, and is still home congregation to descendants. In the tradition of our faith, we welcome all of the faithful to worship with us!
Join A.M.E. Zion Church of Franklin Street and help establish a renewed connection with Christ Our Lord, and your community!
OUR MISSION
AME Zion Church of Kingston was founded in 1848, but has even deeper roots in the Mother A.M.E. Zion congregation, established in 1796 by African-American freedmen. The AME conference was central to the abolitionist movement and Underground Railroad. It's members included Sojourner Truth, Fredrick Douglass, and Harriet Tubman. Due to that history, it is also known as the "Freedom Church". From its inception, the mission of the church has to provide a voice for the voiceless, and refuge for those seeking most in need.
We at AME Zion Church of Franklin Street embrace that spirit in the tradition of continuing social activism and charity.
Our History
Founded in 1848
Built on current site in 1863
The A.M.E. Mt. Zion Cemetery was established by church members as an African-American burial ground.
The Rev. William H. Bishop was the first pastor.
Rev. Jeremiah R. B. Smith was pastor of the church 1882-1887, during which he significantly reduced the church's debts, allowing for growth.
During the 1950's-60's, the church hosted many NAACP meetings, Gospel concerts and "rallies", in which benefited the African-American community.
Original parsonnage was located at 76 Liberty Street in Kingston and was later moved to Van Buren Street
Meet Our Pastor!
The Rev. Mary Shelley Bruce has presided over the congregation since June 2017. She has made growing the congregation and community outreach her priorities and has worked with both local officials and community members.
She is an ordained minister in the AME Zion Church and has many years experience.
Fifth Sunday Service
Fifth Sunday Service was a Blessed Day! It started out with our wonderful Presiding Elder, Rev. Isidoa Branch, Sr. and First Lady Susan Branch (who had been traveling all over the vast Westchester District visiting churches) coming to visit! Then, the Rev. Dr. Stephen W. Pogue of The Greater Centennial A.M.E. Zion Church gave the inspiring, and uplifting Word: With God—and hard work— we can, despite the odds, do anything we put our minds (and hearts) to. #Truth
About Our Church
AME Zion Church of Franklin Street has always been a source of strength and guidance for the community. We believe in providing a loving and welcoming place for all that desire to embrace Christ and His teachings!
Service
Come Worship with Us!
SUNDAY MORNINGS at 11am
"Truth is Powerful--and it Prevails!"
Sojurner Truth
Giving Campaigns
Donate to our ministry: Outreach and Capital Fund
Please send monetary donations to:
AME Zion Church of Kingston, P.O. Box 2519, Kingston, NY 12402.
-or-
CashApp: $marybruce0913
Specify where you would like gift to be given to (i.e. Ministry of Kindness, Food Pantry or Capital Building & Projects).
Food and clothing donations, can be dropped off every other Wednesday at the church, 26 Franklin Street, Kingston.
We appreciate any and all support you can offer!
“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops” (Proverbs 3:9).
