Mt. Zion AME Church celebrates 125th anniversary with festive weekend

The Rev. Dr. Robert A. Jackson Jr., pastor of St. Matthew AME Church in Philadelphia, gives the keynote speech for the 125th anniversary celebration at Mt. Zion AME Church in Ellendale. SUBMITTED PHOTOS

The Rev. Sonja Ayers, pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church, welcomes attendees to the 125th Anniversary Banquet.

October 17, 2025

Event Date:

Fri, 10/10/2025 - 01:45 pm

The Rev. Sonja Ayers, pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church, welcomes attendees to the 125th Anniversary Banquet.

Mt. Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church in Ellendale recently celebrated its 125th anniversary, honoring more than a century of faith, service and community with a special weekend of events.

The milestone celebration began Sept. 20, with a 125th Anniversary Banquet at the Ellendale Fire Hall. Guests enjoyed an afternoon of fellowship, dining and entertainment. The keynote address was delivered by the Rev. Dr. Robert A. Jackson Jr., pastor of St. Matthew AME Church in Philadelphia, who inspired attendees with a message reflecting on the strength of the church’s legacy and vision for the future.

The festivities concluded Sept. 21, with a worship service at Mt. Zion AME Church. The Rev. Ellis B. Louden, presiding elder, powerfully conveyed a message about the importance of passing it forward. The service was a time of thanksgiving and reflection, celebrating the congregation’s enduring role as a cornerstone of the Ellendale community.

For more information about Mt. Zion AME Church, go to mtzionameellendale.com.