Our History
Rooted on Wadmalaw Island since the late 19th century, New Jerusalem AME is a testimony of faith, resilience, and community shaped by Gullah Geechee heritage and sustained by the grace of God.
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”
— 2 Corinthians 9:8
From Roots to Renewal
In 1886, members on Wadmalaw Island felt called to establish a ministry closer to home. With faith and fortitude, they began building a new sanctuary on Bears Bluff Road founding what would become New Jerusalem AME Church. The story below marks key moments along the way.
Our Story
Our first sanctuary stood near a palm tree and served the congregation for twenty-seven years. As membership grew, the people launched construction of a larger church in 1910. Under the leadership of Rev. W. H. Turner, the new building was completed and dedicated in 1913 a beacon for worship and community on Wadmalaw Island.
Before bridges connected the islands, pastors traveled by boat from Johns Island, Edisto Island, and Charleston. When tides ran low, they stayed overnight with class leaders. To support this ministry, a parsonage was built during the pastorate of Rev. R. A. Royal, providing a home for pastors and their families.
Through the decades, God’s people continued to build: choirs formed, ministries flourished, and the church expanded to meet growing needs. In 1959, land was purchased for a dedicated cemetery sacred ground to honor our saints. Renovations in the 1960s and 70s brought new restrooms, paneling, pews, and a fellowship hall. By 1976, the sanctuary had been fully refurbished and a cornerstone set.
Leaders also served beyond the pulpit teaching in local schools and guiding youth. In 1989, when Hurricane Hugo struck, the Lord spared New Jerusalem from major harm. The congregation pressed on, strengthening youth choirs and outreach, upgrading accessibility and HVAC, and preparing for a new generation.
In 2003, a major renovation project was completed. By God’s grace and faithful giving, the church paid off its $800,000 mortgage by 2008. Freed from debt, New Jerusalem expanded ministries, provided scholarships, and increased service to the community.
From 2010, Rev. Joseph Swinton, Jr. emphasized Bible study, evangelism, and youth engagement. In 2016, Rev. Toney J. Slater, Jr.—a seasoned AME pastor—brought stability and care to the flock, preparing the church for its next chapter.
1886–1913
Founding on Bears Bluff Road; first sanctuary near a palm tree; larger church constructed and dedicated under Rev. W. H. Turner (1913).
Mid-1900s
Parsonage built under Rev. R. A. Royal; cemetery land purchased (1959); extensive renovations through the 1960s–70s; cornerstone set (1976).
1989
Hurricane Hugo: God’s mercy over New Jerusalem; continued upgrades, accessibility improvements, and youth ministries.
2003–2008
Major renovation completed (2003); mortgage fully retired (2008) through sacrificial giving fueling expanded ministry.
2010–2016
Rev. Joseph Swinton, Jr. emphasizes scripture and evangelism; Rev. Toney J. Slater, Jr. strengthens pastoral care and stability.
The Years of Abundant Grace
Appointed in 2023, Rev. Dr. Dante Wynne Kenly leads New Jerusalem into a fresh season anchored in 2 Corinthians 9:8. Under Dr. Kenly’s Spirit-filled, scholarly leadership, worship has grown more vibrant, outreach more intentional, and ministries more inclusive across generations.
With renewed focus on holiness, excellence, and community, the church is embracing its Gullah Geechee heritage while building for the future expanding programs, deepening partnerships, and inviting neighbors into the hope of the Gospel. Truly, the Lord has opened for us the Years of Abundant Grace to abound in every good work.
We’d love to connect with you.
Have a question about our history or planning a visit to Wadmalaw Island? Reach out and our team will be honored to welcome you.