The Exclusive Press (EP) proudly shines a light on the unwavering backbone of Black churches. These sacred spaces, built through the vision and sacrifice of faith-centered leaders, have long served as sanctuaries where people gather, worship, and stand strong in unity. For generations—especially within the Black community—churches have been places of liberation, safe havens, meeting grounds during the Jim Crow era, and extensions of family. Through love, fellowship, and shared purpose, churches have continually preserved a powerful and enduring legacy.
One such example stands in Fayetteville, North Carolina: New Bethel AME Zion Church, which celebrated its 137th Homecoming Anniversary on October 26, 2025. Its story is one of vision, determination, and steadfast faith—built brick by brick by devoted members who understood that they were laying a foundation not only for themselves but for generations yet to come.
Last month’s homecoming served as a day of reflection, celebration, and renewed commitment to New Bethel’s mission to serve God, nurture faith, and uplift the community through unity and compassion. Homecoming festivities were filled with a spirited worship service through guest speaker, Reverend Dr. Joseph C. Brown Jr (Presiding Elder of Fayetteville AME Zion District), moving musical tributes, and a fellowship luncheon that brought together generations of members in a joyful reunion of love and remembrance.
The Homecoming Anniversary marks a new season for the church – defined by joy, forward momentum, and heartfelt gratitude. This year’s milestone was made even more profound by a historic moment of the first worship service held in the church’s newly constructed sanctuary. The occasion symbolized renewal, perseverance, and the enduring strength of a community deeply rooted in faith.
In the Homecoming booklet, Rev. Dr. Darin M. Coleman, pastor of New Bethel AME Zion Church, along with his wife, First Lady Mrs. Coleman, expressed sincere appreciation for the congregation’s dedication, faithfulness, and generosity throughout the building process.
“As we move forward and continue to grow the congregation, God continues to open new doors,” Rev. Coleman shared, giving thanks for the spirit of renewal and the blessings still unfolding.
Images of New Bethel AME Zion’s 137th homecoming anniversary – October 26, 2025; Photo Credit: Melvin McLaughlin
Homecoming also honored the memory of the trailblazers whose service and sacrifices helped shape the church before they were called home. Their spirit continues to serve as a guiding light for New Bethel’s journey forward.
“We pay special homage to those faithful members who have departed this earthly world but were steadfast in their support of the new sanctuary. It is our prayer that they are celebrating with us as they look down from heaven,” Rev. Coleman expressed in the Homecoming booklet.
New Bethel AME Zion Church’s story dates back to the late 1800s, when its earliest members gathered in a modest meeting house built on land deeded in 1888 in the Seventy-First Township of western Cumberland County. Since then, the church has weathered world wars, cultural shifts, and the trials of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through every era, it has been strengthened by visionary pastors, steadfast trustees, devoted congregants, and an unwavering commitment to service.
Today, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Coleman, New Bethel continues to flourish. The newly completed sanctuary, stands as a living testament to faith in action. Meanwhile, the former church building has been renovated and renamed the Margaret McNeill Fellowship Hall, now a vibrant hub for ministry events and community gatherings.
As New Bethel AME Zion Church steps boldly into its next chapter, its legacy remains rooted in resilience, devotion, and the enduring belief that with faith as the foundation and community as the cornerstone, the future will continue to unfold with God’s abundant blessings.
