Guided by the enduring call to be “Called to Serve,” the Sixth Episcopal District carries forward a legacy of worship, discipleship, and outreach.
We believe that faith expressed in love transforms lives, strengthens families, and builds resilient communities.
The AME Church was founded in 1816 by Bishop Richard Allen in Philadelphia as the first independent Black Christian denomination in the United States. It emerged out of a desire for spiritual dignity and racial justice, a heritage we honor as we continue to preach, teach, and serve in Jesus’ name. African Methodist leaders brought this movement into Georgia during the final months of the Civil War establishing congregations that became essential centers of worship, education, civic life, and mutual support.
Those early efforts grew into today’s Sixth Episcopal District, encompassing all of Georgia with over 400 congregations, each committed to ministry in its community. Under the faithful leadership of Bishop Michael L. Mitchell, and Episcopal Supervisor Cordelia D. Mitchell, the Sixth Episcopal District continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact. Bishop Mitchell’s vision reflects a commitment to spiritual formation, holistic ministry, and compassionate service across generations. Our district is proud of its historic role in creating institutions that empower minds and nurture leaders. In 1881, AME leaders founded Morris Brown College in the basement of Big Bethel AME Church in Atlanta to educate newly emancipated African
Americans.
A few years later, in 1894, Turner Theological Seminary was established to train clergy and lay leaders for effective ministry. Turner Seminary later became a founding member of the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) in Atlanta and is now pursuing independent accreditation to continue its mission of equipping visionary leaders.
The Sixth Episcopal District’s ministries extend far beyond Sunday worship. Our congregations and partners address pressing community needs through initiatives in housing support, hunger relief, education, health and wellness, reentry and restorative justice, and compassionate care for vulnerable populations..
We seek to embody the AME conviction that God’s love must reach both hearts and homes. At the heart of our work is the belief that every person is created in the image of God and deserving of dignity, hope, and opportunity. Our denominational motto, “God Our Father, Christ Our Redeemer, the Holy Spirit Our Comforter, Humankind Our Family,” anchors our ministry and calls us to welcome all people into the life-transforming power of Christ.