The African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church convened its 2025 Board of Bishops Meeting in the historic city of Mobile, Alabama from February 12–13. Hosted by Bishop Dwayne A. Walker in the Alabama-Florida Episcopal Area, this year’s meeting brought together episcopal leaders, general officers, clergy, and lay members from across the global Zion connection.
The gathering opened with a powerful Wednesday morning worship service that set the tone for the entire meeting. The service began in a sacred moment of meditation, followed by the singing of the processional hymn, “God of Grace and God of Glory.” The invocation was given by Bishop Bernando Ngunza, and Bishop George W.C. Walker, Sr. led the congregation in the hymn of praise, “Praise Him! Praise Him!” Bishop Anthony Witherspoon guided the responsive reading, Bishop Michael Frencher, Sr. offered the Affirmation of Faith, and scripture readings were shared by Bishop Dennis V. Proctor, Bishop Warren M. Brown, and Bishop George D. Crenshaw. The Gloria Patri was led by Bishop S. Chuka Ekemam, and the worship intensified with the prayer hymn “Guide My Feet,” led by Bishop Kenneth Monroe. Bishop Melanie Miller offered a heartfelt morning prayer. Bishop Dwayne A. Walker, the host bishop, also served as the worship leader for the morning service and guided the congregation through the service with pastoral care and energy.
The International A.M.E. Zion Music Ministry blessed the service with rich anthems, and Bishop Brian R. Thompson, Sr. lifted the Ministry of Kindness offering. Announcements followed from Bishop Eric Leake before Bishop Darryl B. Starnes, Sr. introduced the preacher of the hour, Bishop Hilliard K. Dogbe.
“Sort out your Mess” 2 Chronicles 20:25 KJV – Wednesday Morning Sermon by Bishop Hilliard K. Dogbe
Bishop Dogbe delivered a soul-stirring message rooted in the global mission of Zion and the call to faithful, fearless discipleship. The congregation responded in full spirit, singing “I Can Hear My Savior Calling” during the invitation. Bishop W. Darin Moore led the offering, and then the Church entered a historic moment: the election of the new President of the Board of Bishops.
In a powerful and celebratory decision, Bishop U.U. Effiong was elected President of the Board of Bishops. Though unable to be present at this year's session, Bishop Effiong's election was received with joy and admiration, affirming his leadership and the church’s global unity. Congratulations and prayers of support were lifted for this next season of episcopal leadership.
Wednesday evening’s service featured preaching from Bishop Daran H. Mitchell of the Mid-West Episcopal District, who challenged the Church to stay rooted in its calling and bold in its ministry.
“It's A New Day” Genesis 1:1 NLT – Wednesday Evening Sermon by Bishop Daran H. Mitchell
The night closed with praise and a sense of anticipation for the work ahead.
Thursday morning brought reports and presentations from the denomination’s key institutions and ministries. Greetings were shared by Dr. Anthony Davis (Livingstone College), Dr. Vergel Lattimore (Hood Theological Seminary), Mrs. Archniya Ingram (Clinton College), and Rev. Claude Shuford (Lomax-Hannon Jr. College). Updates also came from A.M.E. Zion University of Liberia, the Connectional Lay Council, the Women’s Home and Overseas Missionary Society, Zion Benefits Services, and the Harriet Tubman Home. These reports showcased the Church’s expansive work in education, missions, leadership development, and historical preservation.
The closing worship service on Thursday evening was led by Reverend Daniel Doe, Presiding Elder of the Accra West–Kasoa District in the East Ghana Conference.
“Refinding Inheritance” Genesis 18: 17-19 – Thursday Evening Sermon by Rev. Daniel Doe
Reverend Doe’s preaching brought a rich and dynamic close to the gathering. His sermon was both a personal testimony and a prophetic word, reminding all present of Zion’s global impact and God’s continued faithfulness.
As the benediction was offered and the saints prepared to return to their various homes and ministries, it was clear that the 2025 Board of Bishops Meeting had been more than a business session. It was a revival. It was a moment of sacred alignment, with Bishop Dwayne A. Walker providing warm and excellent hospitality in the Alabama-Florida Episcopal Area, and with Bishop U.U. Effiong stepping into his role as the new President of the Board, the A.M.E. Zion Church continues to move forward with renewed vision, bold faith, and the anointing to lead in this present age.
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