ministry in the mountains
welcome to the lewistown circuit of the Third Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
Thank you for visiting!
This site is designed to be both educational and informational, offering a window into the rich history, enduring legacy, and vibrant present-day work of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in central Pennsylvania—a region shaped by the Allegheny Mountains, the Seven Mountains, and the winding path of the Juniata River.
These natural corridors were more than just scenery—they were routes of survival and sanctuary, used by those seeking freedom on the Underground Railroad, and later by circuit preachers bringing hope to rural Black communities scattered across the hills.
Here you’ll find:
Brief overviews of historical information
Key timelines of local congregations
Links to external sources and historical archives for deeper learning
Whether you're here to learn, connect, or remember, we hope this site inspires you to see how faith has moved through these mountains—and still does.
Welcome—and enjoy your visit!
visit the congregations of the lewistown circuit: Bethel, lewistown, pa | Bethel, mt. union, pa | St. Paul, Bellefonte, pa
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Bethel AME Church Lewistown
HOPE for a Hurting World
23 N Juniata Street | Lewistown, PA 17044 | 717. xxx.xxxx
Worship with us Sundays 9:30AM
Pray with us Tuesdays 11AM | Study with us Wednesdays 6:30PM
👉 Click to read more our grief ministry, nursing home ministry, and opportunities to serve.
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Bethel AME Church - Mt. union, pa
MIGHTY People Serving a Mighty God
16 W Grant Street | Mt. Union, PA 17066
Worship with Us | Sundays 11:30AM
👉 Click to read more about our afterschool tutoring ministry and opportunities to serve.
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St. Paul AME Church
The Church on the Hill
121 St. Paul Street | Bellefonte, PA 16823
The AME leadership team of the “Church on the Hill” are engaged in the process of reimagining ministry for this season. Stay tuned!
👉 Click to read more about our history and stay abreast of current happenings.
Learn About the Legacy of the ame church and the current Leaders of the lewistown circuit
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🐎 Circuit Riders: Carriers of the Gospel
Long before church buildings dotted the countryside, circuit riders rode through mountains, fields, and forgotten roads—on horseback, in all weather—bringing faith, hope, and justice to people who might otherwise be left behind.
They didn’t just preach. They built. They connected. They made the AME Church a movement.
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✊🏾 The Birth of a Church, The Rise of a Movement
Born from a walkout and shaped by a dream of freedom, the African Methodist Episcopal Church became the first independent Black denomination in the United States. It wasn’t just a new church—it was a bold declaration of spiritual authority, racial justice, and self-determination.
From a blacksmith shop to a global denomination, this is a story of protest, perseverance, and purpose.
👉 Click to read more. -
🙌🏾 Meet the Current Leaders of the Lewistown Circuit
Guided by strong and faithful leadership, the Lewistown Circuit continues to thrive under those called to serve this historic region.
Bishop Stafford J.N. Wicker, Rev. Dr. James Harris. Rev. Dr. Renita Marie Green, and Rev. Sylvia Morris
Together, they carry forward a legacy of connection, care, and commitment to the people and churches of central Pennsylvania.
👉 Click to read more.
