Mt. Tabor A.M.E. Zion Church has been a cornerstone of the Avondale, Pennsylvania community since its founding in 1891. For well over a century, this congregation has stood as a beacon of faith, hope, and service. As we reflect upon our rich history, we honor the memories of those who labored, sacrificed, and faithfully served to establish and sustain this ministry. Many have gone home to be with the Lord, but their legacy lives on through the work we continue today. We thank them for carrying the torch and passing it on to future generations. May we continue to hold it high and pass it forward with integrity and faithfulness. Beginnings (1883–1891) In the latter part of 1883, on a winding country road now known as Church Street, the First Small Mission was formed by Rev. Lane Fander, who recognized the need for evangelism and spiritual development in the Avondale community. Rev. Fander faithfully labored for three years to establish and strengthen this mission, laying the foundation for what would become Mt. Tabor A.M.E. Zion Church. In 1887, at the Annual Conference, Rev. Fander was transferred to another appointment, and Rev. Stephen Bushrood was assigned to continue the work. Following his tenure, several faithful ministers continued nurturing the mission. At the 1890 Annual Conference, Rev. Zachariah Brown was appointed pastor. Possessing vision, determination, and strong leadership, Rev. Brown recognized the need for a permanent place of worship. Through his personal financial contributions and the generosity of members and supporters, construction began despite numerous obstacles and delays. The church was built as a "Tabernacle of the Lord." On Sunday, May 15, 1891, Mt. Tabor A.M.E. Zion Church was officially dedicated. The occasion was filled with great rejoicing as the congregation celebrated the completion of a house of worship dedicated to the glory of God. Mt. Tabor officially joined the Philadelphia District of the Philadelphia-Baltimore Annual Conference of The A.M.E. Zion Church. Growth and Development Throughout its history, Mt. Tabor has experienced seasons of challenge and seasons of triumph. Through every generation, God has remained faithful. The church has served not only as a place of worship but also as a center of encouragement, fellowship, and community support. Its success is measured not merely by years of existence, but by the countless lives touched through ministry and service. Mt. Tabor has been blessed with dedicated pastors who each left a unique mark upon the congregation and community. Through their leadership, the church continued to grow spiritually, physically, and missionally. Key Contributions by Pastors Rev. A. C. Duffie (1926–1928) – Oversaw the construction of the church parsonage. Rev. Leslie E. Wilson (1983–1988) – Led the construction of the Fellowship Hall, creating additional space for ministry and community gatherings. Rev. Dr. Recie Springfield Jr. (1990–2003) – Expanded the church's outreach efforts and secured a church van in 1996 to support ministry operations. Rev. Brandon Pennix (2003–2007) – Served faithfully during a period of transition and continued strengthening the ministry and witness of Mt. Tabor within the Avondale community. Rev. Dr. James Simmons (2007–2024)– Guided Mt. Tabor through a significant period of physical and spiritual development. Under his leadership, the kitchen and fellowship hall were renovated, the parking lot was paved, and critical foundation and exterior repairs were completed. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a virtual ministry presence was established, ensuring continued worship, fellowship, and pastoral care despite unprecedented challenges. A New Birth Under Pastor Josey's Leadership (2024–Present) On May 26, 2024, Rev. Roderick J. Josey was appointed as the Senior Pastor of Mt. Tabor A.M.E. Zion Church. As one of the youngest pastors in the church's history, Pastor Josey has led Mt. Tabor into a new season of revitalization, innovation, and community engagement. Building upon the foundation established by previous leaders, Pastor Josey's administration has focused on both ministry growth and infrastructure improvements. Under his leadership, critical electrical upgrades and structural repairs have been completed to ensure the safety and longevity of the church facility. These investments position Mt. Tabor to continue serving future generations. Recognizing the importance of reaching people beyond the sanctuary walls, Pastor Josey has expanded and strengthened the church's digital ministry presence. Mt. Tabor now reaches a growing virtual congregation through weekly live-streamed worship services, Bible studies, and online engagement opportunities. This expanded outreach allows individuals throughout the region and beyond to remain connected to the ministry. Significant enhancements have also been made to the church's worship experience through upgraded sound equipment, improved audio-visual technology, and the acquisition of additional musical instruments. These improvements support vibrant worship while creating an atmosphere that honors both the church's rich traditions and its vision for the future. Under Pastor Josey's leadership, Mt. Tabor has launched a renewed focus on communication and community engagement. The church now maintains an active website and social media presence, allowing members, visitors, and community partners to stay informed and connected. Through outreach initiatives, partnerships, special events, and community service efforts, Mt. Tabor continues to demonstrate the love of Christ beyond its walls. Today, many recognize that a new birth is taking place at Mt. Tabor A.M.E. Zion Church. While honoring the sacrifices and accomplishments of previous generations, the congregation is embracing a renewed vision for ministry, discipleship, worship, and community impact. The torch has been faithfully passed from one generation of leadership to another, and under Pastor Josey's guidance, the flame continues to burn brightly. Current Leadership Mt. Tabor A.M.E. Zion Church remains a proud member of the Philadelphia District of the Philadelphia-Baltimore Annual Conference of The A.M.E. Zion Church. The current Presiding Elder is Rev. Dr. Michael King, and the Presiding Prelate is Bishop Brian R. Thompson Sr. As Mt. Tabor continues to move forward, we remain committed to our mission of Kingdom building, discipleship, community service, and the proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We pray that our steps will continue to be ordered by the Lord as we faithfully serve His people and fulfill His purpose. Through every season, Mt. Tabor has come this far by faith, leaning on the Lord, and we trust that the best is yet to come. "The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me." — Psalm 138:8