Pastor of The Week

Rev. Darien Jamel Jones, Moncks Corner AME Church

In 1866, the first light shed in the minds of a group of organizers in this community spread with such a great force that it became a beacon in the center of a hill that beckons men, women, and children into its path.

Graham A.M.E. Church was erected in 1866, just after Reconstruction. In 1893 the church was crumbled by a drastic storm, but the members had great faith in God and were not discouraged, so they worshipped under a bust tent for a year. Rev. Henry Taylor was the Pastor.

This church was rebuilt in 1894 under the pastorate of Rev. I. Bryant. Rev. Jefferson was Presiding Elder of the District and Bishop Gaines was Presiding Bishop of the State of South Carolina.

St. James A.M.E. Church was erected in 1870. Because of the membership of the small church, the members rebuilt a larger church under the pastorate of Rev. J. S. Barr. It was completed in 1904 when Rev. Joe Lucas was assigned to this charge. We are grateful to three pioneers of these churches who helped in securing information: Rev. James Vanwright, Assistant Pastor; Brother George Pasley, Class Leader and Trustee; and Brother David Cooper, Layman.

The members of both churches decided to have a station church. Thus, on March 1, 1966 under the leadership of our efficient Pastor, Rev. G. A. Thomas, the churches were merged under the name Moncks Corner A.M.E. Church. Services were held in St. James Church until June 1, 1969, when we moved into the new Sanctuary and Educational Building with a sacred march led by the Pastor, Officers, and Members. This church is located on West Main Street, Moncks Corner, South Carolina.