How it all started...
BIG Zion AME Zion Church traces its roots to 1842, born out of the earliest days of Methodism in Mobile and the steadfast faith of Black worshippers who sought a place to gather, grow, and worship. In those early years, believers met under difficult circumstances—often in separate services and in temporary locations—yet remained united through perseverance and prayer.
As the congregation matured, meetings were held at the corner of Church and Dearborn Street, and despite the legal and practical barriers of the era, efforts were made to secure property so the church could stand on firm footing. The congregation ultimately purchased the present site around 1860, and around that period voted to transfer from the Methodist charge into the African Methodist Episcopal Zion (AME Zion) connection—a defining step that anchored the church’s identity and mission for generations to come.
Following the Civil War, the church’s connectional life strengthened, including key leadership milestones that helped establish and organize AME Zion ministry in Alabama. The historic sanctuary downtown—at the corner of Church and Bayou Street—reflects that enduring legacy: the present building dates to 1867, and it stands today as a recognized historic landmark in Mobile.
Over time, the church became known first as “Little Zion” and later as “Big Zion,” reflecting both growth and deepening community impact. With later renovations—including significant work by the late 19th century—Big Zion’s physical presence and ministry reach expanded, while its spiritual purpose remained the same: to serve Christ faithfully and to care for the people of Mobile with compassion, dignity, and hope.
As the congregation matured, meetings were held at the corner of Church and Dearborn Street, and despite the legal and practical barriers of the era, efforts were made to secure property so the church could stand on firm footing. The congregation ultimately purchased the present site around 1860, and around that period voted to transfer from the Methodist charge into the African Methodist Episcopal Zion (AME Zion) connection—a defining step that anchored the church’s identity and mission for generations to come.
Following the Civil War, the church’s connectional life strengthened, including key leadership milestones that helped establish and organize AME Zion ministry in Alabama. The historic sanctuary downtown—at the corner of Church and Bayou Street—reflects that enduring legacy: the present building dates to 1867, and it stands today as a recognized historic landmark in Mobile.
Over time, the church became known first as “Little Zion” and later as “Big Zion,” reflecting both growth and deepening community impact. With later renovations—including significant work by the late 19th century—Big Zion’s physical presence and ministry reach expanded, while its spiritual purpose remained the same: to serve Christ faithfully and to care for the people of Mobile with compassion, dignity, and hope.
Expanding the vision...
Rooted in a legacy of perseverance and faith since 1842, Big Zion continues to carry the Gospel with purpose in the heart of Mobile. Our mission—drawn from Mark 16:15–18—keeps us focused on a holistic ministry: Exalting the Savior, Educating the People, Equipping the Saints, and Evangelizing the lost.
In this season, we are intentionally building on that foundation. Under the leadership of Dr. Titus A. Thorn, appointed in November 2021 as Pastor of Big Zion and Presiding Elder of the Mobile District, we are pursuing “next level” ministry that strengthens discipleship, expands community impact, and keeps the church moving forward.
“Holistic ministry” also means serving practical needs with compassion. Big Zion’s Health & Wellness work—including launching free COVID-19 testing for the Mobile community beginning January 2022—reflects our commitment to meet people where they are while pointing them to Christ.
In this season, we are intentionally building on that foundation. Under the leadership of Dr. Titus A. Thorn, appointed in November 2021 as Pastor of Big Zion and Presiding Elder of the Mobile District, we are pursuing “next level” ministry that strengthens discipleship, expands community impact, and keeps the church moving forward.
“Holistic ministry” also means serving practical needs with compassion. Big Zion’s Health & Wellness work—including launching free COVID-19 testing for the Mobile community beginning January 2022—reflects our commitment to meet people where they are while pointing them to Christ.
Where we are headed...
We are headed toward a future that honors our history while expanding our reach—spiritually, relationally, and in service to our neighbors. Key priorities include:
Big Zion’s story has always been one of faith under pressure—and faithful progress. We are moving forward with vision, order, and expectation, trusting God to do “exceeding abundantly” through this church and this community.
- Deeper discipleship and Christian education that forms mature, resilient believers.
- A stronger next-generation pipeline for children, youth, and young adults—spiritually grounded and practically supported.
- A church-wide culture of evangelism—equipping members to share the Gospel and invite others into faith and community.
- Expanded community partnerships and outreach, continuing Big Zion’s legacy of civic engagement and care.
- Health, wellness, and wholeness initiatives that reflect our commitment to holistic ministry.
- Stewardship of our historic campus, preserving the landmark sanctuary (built in 1867 at Church and Bayou) while ensuring it remains a vibrant place of worship and ministry for generations.
- Stronger communication and digital ministry, extending worship, teaching, and connection beyond Sunday and beyond our walls.
Big Zion’s story has always been one of faith under pressure—and faithful progress. We are moving forward with vision, order, and expectation, trusting God to do “exceeding abundantly” through this church and this community.
