Church Components

At Bethel AME Church we have a variety of ministries, all with the focus of spreading God’s word throughout the community and to his people worldwide. This is just a small sample of the community involvement and ministries you can be part of at Bethel Asbury.

Mattie Graham Women’s Missionary Society

The Mattie Graham Missionary Society is named after Mattye Fauntleroy Graham who was born in 1885 in Laurenburg, NC. Mrs. Graham moved to Asbury Park NJ and joined our church, Bethel AME in 1927 where the missionary society was named in her honor; spelling her first name as Mattie. Mrs. Graham was a dedicated member of Bethel who gave her time and care to those in need. In 1961 Mrs. Graham passed away, but her legacy lives on through the missionary society.

Our works are focused on helping the community through outreach assistance, counseling and guidance where needed. We do God’s work through fellowship and love in the community, wherever we find there is a need.

Board of Christian Education

The Board of Christian Education is responsible for leading and “preparing programs, offering classes, teaching Christian education, publishing material, training people for pastoral ministry and other church vocations” in accordance with the tradition and doctrine of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Lay Organization

The mission of the Lay Organization is to create a love and appreciation of the history and principles of African methodism. The Lay is also charged with keeping alive the memory of our founder, Bishop Richard Allen.  It encourages support both through volunteering and donations of the church’s programs and teaches stewardship practices to the youth and new members.  The Lay also supports various church programs and organizations and gets involved with social action in the church community. 

Church School

Bethel AME Church School teaches the word of God to worshippers of all ages.

Ministry of Music

Our Music Ministry is led by Mr. John Broadnax who will lead us in song and music as we lift our praises to God.

YPD/Jehovah Nisi

The YPD organization provides our youth with an opportunity to fellowship with one another and work as a team throughout the community we serve. YPD members work in the Community Garden and on special projects to enhance the lives of everyone they interact with. The youth at Bethel enjoy many family events and during their special “YPD Day” of the year, they run the church program for worship. They experience educational and training opportunities preparing them to carry on the mission of God. YPD keeps our youth connected to God and his house of worship through meaningful youth training programs and activities.

Jehovah Nisi, our liturgical dance ministry train to spread the word and the passion of God through the spiritual outpouring of dance. See a quick video of our dance ministry!