About Us

How it all started...
The Stone Springfield A.M.E. Church was founded in 1872 by a dedicated group of individuals from Walden United Methodist Church who recognized the need for a place of worship. Led by Bro. Joseph T. Trimble, supported by key members, negotiated land from Mr. A. S. Patterson and built a brush harbor, which they named Stone Springfield A.M.E. Church. In 1905, a vision emerged to provide education and worship for the community's youth, leading to establishing a school and church supported by additional trustees—women like Sis. Ann Harvey and others played a crucial role in fundraising for church furnishings, contributing to the growth and influence of the church. Through the years, various leaders, including Rev. G. W. Walker and Rev. E. J. Smith, oversaw significant improvements and expansions, such as installing electric lights and constructing educational facilities. The church faced challenges, including a devastating tornado in 1983, but with support from sister churches, they rebuilt and continued to thrive.

Expanding the Vision...
Rev. E. L. Handberry, who led from 1986, initiated many renovations and community-building efforts. His successors, including Rev. Leroy Britt and Rev. Michael G. Ephraim, enhanced the church's facilities and community outreach. Under Rev. Ephraim, the church celebrated the burning of its mortgage in 2007, marking a significant milestone. In recent years, we have seen continued growth under leaders like Rev. Forrest Dickey, who expanded ministries and initiated the construction of the Williams Family Life Community Development Center, which was the Handberry-W completed in 2018. In October 2019, at the Mid-Year Meeting in Marietta, Georgia, Bishop Reginald T. Jackson appointed Rev. David L. Luke as the Pastor at Stone Springfield. Rev. Luke brought leadership and compelling preaching to our congregation.

Where we are Going...
Then, on Sunday, June 30, 2024, a new era commenced at Stone Springfield AME Church with the appointment of Rev. Dr. Marlon D. Ector as the Pastor by our Presiding Prelate, Bishop Reginald T. Jackson. Dr. Ector's leadership has ushered in a phase of remarkable growth, newness, and advancement for the church. Our church's remarkable legacy stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of its founders. Their dedication has paved the way for us to treasure the moments of fellowship within these hallowed walls. Their sacrifices will forever be engraved in our hearts, compelling us to honor their memory by upholding the cherished values and traditions that have endured the test of time. Celebrating over a century of service, our church remains resolute in preserving the rich heritage left by our visionary founders.