Galilee A.M.E Zion Church

Welcome!

Come Worship with Us

Our Mission and Vision

Mission: To promote God’s gracious love by following Christ’s example to welcome you to the church, to help heal, and to depart to serve others.

Vision: A caring community church that attempts to draw and inspire people to grow in faith.

I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. ~Philippians 4:13

About us

Galilee AME Zion Church was founded and built in 1864-1883; this was one year before the end of slavery. Pastor Johnson's great grandfather, Barry Johnson, was one of the founding members of Galilee Church.

In 1954, the church was rebuilt with additions and major renovations to the current sanctuary. The church has been a major body of Christ and has had an impact in the community for over 160 years; through the years, there have been significant changes made as well as the implementation of different ministries

(This was a picture of the first or second church building)

These are three of Mr. Barry Johnson grandchildren, Berry, Carson, and Joe Johnson.

Our History

The Galilee African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church traces its origins back to around 1863 in the years following the Civil War. During this time, an informal gathering spot known as a "brush harbor" or "hush harbor" was constructed from tree limbs and branches in a secluded location away from the oversight of slave owners. It provided a clandestine place for slaves and freed Black people to hold religious services.

While not definitively known who established this original brush harbor, it is believed that Issac Johnson, Barry Johnson, Jake Johnson, John Marshall, Piser Buchanan, Jake Moore, and Tom Little were key figures involved in its founding. People came from the entire surrounding area to attend services at this improvised outdoor sanctuary for several years.

Meet Pastor Derinzer Johnson

Pastor Derinzer Johnson is an experienced visionary pastoral leader who has served as Senior Pastor of St. Stephens AME Zion Church in Asbury Park, NJ since 1991.

He is devoted to the spiritual and communal growth of his congregation and greater community, co-founding organizations like the Asbury Park Community Action Network and Coastal Habitat for Humanity to provide housing, jobs, and support services to those in need.

Pastor Johnson has spearheaded impactful initiatives like leading missionary work abroad, mentoring high school students, renovating his church, and developing church businesses. He continues to empower communities through his gift for preaching, teaching, organizing cross-sector collaborations, and developing leaders.

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