Torrence Chapel AME Zion Church

The African Methodist Episcopal Zion church is a result of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Between the years 1765 and 1796, there was a significant increase of black members. In 1796, Peter Williams, James Varick, Christopher Rush and other African Americans of the John Street Methodist Church, a white church in New York City, begin holding separate meetings.

Among the leaders of the movement, James Varick was elected first bishop of the denomination in 1822. "Methodist Episcopal" was always in the title to exhibit the retention of the doctrine and form of church government under which denomination originated. "African" was prefixed to the rest of the title of this church because it was to be controlled by descendants of Africa, in the interest of humanity, regardless of race, color, sex or condition. In 1828, Christopher Rush became the second bishop of denomination and in 1848; “Zion” was officially was added to the name of the denomination, African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church.

The AME Zion Church encompasses all the United States, Canada, Caribbean Islands, England, Africa, India, South America and it is under the supervision of twelve elected Bishops. For more information click on the Official Website of the A.M.E. Zion Church: www.amez.org

Torrence Chapel's historic beginning was similiar to that of most rural churches. With only a few members it was organized by Rev. Ephrim Torrence a few years prior to 1869. Torrence Chapel A.M.E. Zion is presently a member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Western North Carolina Conference, North Charlotte District and under the leadership of Bishop George W. Walker, Presiding Prelate and Dr. James M. Sloan, Presiding Elder. Throughout the years, Torrence Chapel has had 41 pastors and is now being led by Rev. George Erwin, Sr.

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