our History

davis Memorial A.M.E.

The fibers of determination, dedication and commitment were used to weave the fabric of the character of those who were crucial to the founding of Davis Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Church.  In 1955, in the city of Gary, Indiana, the Rev. A.B. Jones, out of the desire and biblical mandate to share the gospel of Jesus Christ, began with those who are precious in God’s sight… the children.  Each Sunday morning, Rev. Jones picked up the children from their homes and took them to Sunday Church School.  There was no church building at that time.  Mr. and Mrs. Marshall opened the doors of their home at 19^th and Clark Road for Sunday School.

The original name of this organizing congregation was Providence A.M.E. Church.  In this congregation was the understanding of the need to reach out, serve and touch the lives of others in a variety of ways.  In response to this need, and in recognition of the rich tradition of our denomination, the Missionary Society was organized.

As the church’s needs changed Sunday School was moved to Tarrytown School located at 4137 West 21^st Avenue.  First grade classes were held during the week and Catholic Mass was already being held each Sunday from 10 – 11 a.m.  Mr. Oscar Lindsey, a faithful and committed member of the church, spoke to Mr. Peschke, the principal of the school.  It was agreed upon out of these negotiations that from 9 – 10 a.m. Sunday Church School would convene and the weekly worship service would begin at 1:00 p.m.  The spirit of cooperation existed throughout the relationship between Mr. Peschke and Providence A.M.E. Church

The first worship service at the school was held on March 5, 1956. No one joined the church that Sunday, which was Palm Sunday.  God added to the church and at least four persons joined the next Sunday, which was Easter Sunday.  From that Sunday on other names were added to the roll.

In the early sixties, the church’s name was changed in memory of a beloved Indiana Conference Presiding Elder, from Providence to George N. Davis Memorial A.M.E. Church.  The church is now incorporated under the name Davis Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Church.

The Davis Memorial A.M.E. Church family continues to reflect on and remember the past, while working in the present and looking toward the future.  Davis is trusting, obeying and standing on the word of God.  We are witnesses that if we trust and obey, God will make a way!