AME Zion Church of Newburgh Celebrates 199 Years

By Jennifer L. Warren

NEWBURGH – It was a packed-filled, memorable week of celebratory events, creating joyous bonds, continued faith and uplifting hope for the oldest African-American Church in the Hudson Valley: The AME Zion Church of Newburgh, turning 199 this year.

Beginning on Saturday with an Honoree Luncheon, recognizing two trailblazers: Reverend Dr. Brandon McLauchlin, earning the Frederick Douglass Award and Reverend Dr. Mary McLymore presented with the Harriet Tubman Award, with Speaker, Bishop Jeffrey C. Woody providing inspiring words, the festivities continued on Sunday. Kicking off with a service led by Revered Leslie Green, described by The AME Zion Church Pastor, Milton Stubbs, as “uplifting and spirit-filled with attendees fully engaged in a beautiful worship experience,” the special day continued with an afternoon Anniversary Worship Service which included a luncheon as well as Spoken Word: “Don’t stand still, go forward, don’t stop,” delivered by Reverend Dr. Stephen W. Pogue of the Greater AME Zion Church of Mount Vernon.

“His message stirred both congregations and left all of us inspired to press ahead in faith,” said Pastor Stubbs about Pogue’s inspiring words.

Formed in 1827, The AME Zion Church initiated its services in temporary locales throughout the Newburgh community, eventually landing a home on Washington Street. In addition to being rebuilt several times during its long tenure as a cornerstone pillar of the community, it has endured multiple rioter attacks, two fires, injustice, slavery and a host of other setbacks, revealing its unwavering strength, leadership, faith and impressive membership. A shining light of hope and commitment, focused upon “spreading the good word,” it entered upon a new era in 2014. At the 193rd New York Annual Conference, Reverend Milton Stubbs was appointed as The AME Zion Church Pastor, with his wife, “First Lady,” Dr. Valentina Stubbs, by his side. Establishing a Friendly and Family Day (Unity Day) as well as naming a Fellowship Hall and Scholarship in honor of Reverend Twila Rucker Caines, Pastor Stubbs and his wife have markedly grown the breadth and impact of the Church over the past 12 years.

“We thank God for the wonderful fellowship shared and the unity of both congregations on this memorable day,” said Pastor Stubbs about Sunday’s Anniversary Service. “As we prepare to launch our 200th (Bicentennial) Anniversary Celebration next year, we give God all the glory for what has been and what is yet to come; we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Anniversary Committee, especially Dr. Valentina Stubbs, Chairperson, for the diligent and faithful work.” Stubbs added, “To God be praised.”

The First Lady, Stubbs, also shared sentiments filled with gratitude and excitement. Reflecting upon the almost two century milestone of the Church, filled with a vast number of accomplishments, incredible ability to persevere despite assorted obstacles, and dedication to making a positive impact on the community, Stubbs is eager to celebrate its remarkable, upcoming 200 year celebration.

“It was an amazing honor to serve as the Committee Chairperson for the 199th Church Anniversary,” said Dr. Valentina Stubbs. “We are the oldest African-American Church in the Hudson Valley and have been through many trials and tribulations, including two fires.” She added, “But still, we stand, continuing to provide support and services to the community; we are excited and look forward to celebrating 200 years and invite you to journey with us.”