Amityville, NY – June 2, 2024 – In a momentous occasion filled with joy and reflection, the sanctuary of the Shaw African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church of Amityville, NY, reopened its doors after a four-year closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The reopening service, held on Sunday afternoon, June 2, 2024, at 3:00 PM, marked a significant milestone for the church and its congregation.

Dr. David Robinson, the esteemed lead pastor of Shaw African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, welcomed the congregation with a message of hope and renewal. “Today is not just a reopening of our physical doors but a rekindling of our spiritual fellowship and community spirit,” Dr. Robinson declared. “We have weathered the storm together, and now we emerge stronger and more united in our faith.”

The special reopening service was graced by the presence of Dr. Steven Pogue and the congregation of the Greater Centennial African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church of Mt. Vernon, NY. Dr. Pogue delivered an inspiring sermon that resonated with both congregations, emphasizing themes of resilience, unity, and the enduring power of faith.

The Shaw African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church has a storied history in Amityville, serving as a beacon of hope and a pillar of the community for many years. Founded with a mission to provide spiritual guidance and support to its members, the church has been a steadfast advocate for social justice and community outreach. Over the decades, it has hosted numerous events, programs, and initiatives aimed at uplifting the local community and fostering a sense of belonging among its members.

The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges for the church, leading to the difficult decision to close its doors in 2020 to ensure the safety and well-being of its congregation. During this period, the church continued to offer virtual services and support to its members, adapting to the new normal while maintaining its commitment to faith and community service.

The reopening of the sanctuary was marked by a vibrant and emotional ceremony. Congregants from both Shaw and Greater Centennial filled the church, their voices rising in harmonious worship and heartfelt prayers. The service featured uplifting gospel music, heartfelt testimonies, and a powerful message of renewal and hope for the future.

“We are deeply grateful to Dr. Steven Pogue and our brothers and sisters from Greater Centennial for joining us in this celebration,” Dr. Robinson said. “Their support and fellowship have been a source of strength for us during these challenging times.”

As the service concluded, the congregation left the sanctuary with renewed spirits and a shared sense of purpose. The reopening of Shaw African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church symbolizes not only a return to physical worship but also a reawakening of the community’s dedication to faith, service, and mutual support.

The future looks bright for Shaw African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church as it embarks on this new chapter. With plans to resume in-person services, community outreach programs, and social justice initiatives, the church is poised to continue its legacy of making a positive impact in Amityville and beyond.