STONEY CREEK AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH

HISTORY
1803–2025

In 1803, Rock Fence African Methodist Episcopal Church was built in the Milesville community of Caswell County. After a period of time, the members decided to build another church about a mile from the original site and renamed it Stoney Creek AME Church. In 1899, Mr. John Walker donated land for the new church. Under the leadership of Reverend C.S. Stroud, the church was built with the help of Mr. Robert Graves, Jim Pinnix, Sam Williamson, Todd Tapscott, G.D. Pinnix, John B. Shaw, Jim Miles, and Melch Pinnix.

The land on which the church now stands was acquired due to the vision of Brother James Sellers, who recognized the need for future building space. He learned that the elementary school adjoining the church property was for sale. Brother Sellers shared this opportunity with Brothers George D. Pinnix and Jerry Graves, who traveled to Yanceyville, North Carolina, and purchased the land for the church.

Pastoral Leadership

The conference has sent many dedicated leaders to Stoney Creek, including:

• Reverend Tate, Reverend Stevens, Reverend J.O. Foster, Reverend Farley, Reverend Murray, Reverend Thomas Chrisman, Reverend Morris, Reverend C.L. Steele, Reverend R.C. Crutchfield (father of Elder John R. Crutchfield), Reverend Jeffries, Reverend Reeves, Reverend W.T. Harris, and Reverend C.S. Stroud (who served two terms).
• Ministers who filled in during pastoral absences included Reverend George Turner, Reverend George Cheek, Reverend J.W. Brown, Reverend Mary Peterson, Reverend V.P. Burns, and Reverend Rodney Fox.

Renovations and Contributions

During Reverend H.J. Jeter’s tenure, Brother Walter Hurdle Sr. and his sons undertook a major remodeling of the church. Other key contributors in the church’s history include:

• Brothers Thomas Vincent, Charlie Morrow, Roosevelt Graves, Arthur Graves, Eddie Corbett, and Charles Turner.
• Sisters Helen Love Corbett, Nanny Grey Day, Nettie Moore, Ella Hurdle Parker, Lilly Graves Blackwell, Annie Vincent, Willie Sykes, Minnie Pinnix, Desi Shaw, Mary Shaw, and Clara Trollinger Sellars.
• Friends from the community also volunteered their time to support the church.

Building the Modern Church

Reverend J.H. Terrain was appointed as the 20th pastor in 1972 and served for 12 years. During his leadership, the members decided to build a new church. Construction began in May 1983 and was completed in April 1984. The new church was ready just in time for the Homecoming Service on May 20th, 1984. The communion rail and benches were redesigned, and the church was officially dedicated on November 18th, 1984.

Progress Under New Leadership

• Reverend Joe L. White became the 21st pastor on June 11th, 1984. Though his tenure was brief, he made significant progress by reorganizing the church and focusing on youth involvement. He organized the youth choir, a project that remains a cornerstone of the church’s ministry.
• In May 1986, Reverend James Swain Jr. was appointed as the 22nd pastor. He was joined by his wife Mildred and daughter Teresa. Reverend Swain’s dedication was evident through his commitment to taking communion to the sick and emphasizing that “God has no respect of persons.” Under his leadership:
  • The first male chorus and acolytes were established.
  • A Prayer Band was formed to minister to the sick and unsaved.
  • The church mortgage was paid off.
  • The fellowship hall was built and furnished.
  • Additional land for cemetery plots was purchased.
  • The kitchen and bathrooms were remodeled.
  • The parking lot was paved.
  • Furniture for the pastor’s study and inquiry room was acquired.
  • The marquee was redesigned, and the sound system was updated.
  • A new church van, keyboard, and sanctuary lights were purchased.
  • In 2002, a church parsonage was purchased and furnished.

While numerous material blessings were received, Reverend Swain remained focused on saving souls.

• Reverend Jonathan Richardson was appointed the 23rd pastor in 2012. He served until 2019, implementing initiatives to unify and strengthen the church’s organization.
• Reverend David Lowe was appointed the 24th pastor in 2019 by Bishop James LeVert Davis. Reverend Lowe successfully led the congregation through a historic pandemic. Under his leadership:
  • The Pastor’s Aide Society was formed.
  • Efforts to improve trust and camaraderie among members were initiated.
  • The new cemetery was expanded by 100 plots.

A New Chapter: Reverend Kim E. Moss

At the Second Episcopal District Summer Summit in July 2023, Reverend Kim E. Moss was appointed as the 25th pastor and the first female pastor of Stoney Creek AME Church by Bishop James LeVert Davis. Under Reverend Moss’s leadership:

• Online Bible Study resumed and experienced increased participation.
• The Youth and Young Adult Choir grew under the leadership of Sister Belinda Walker-Poteat.
• Access to worship and Bible study services via technology expanded significantly.
• Realm software was implemented for improved financial accountability, with training provided for the church’s financial stewards.
• In 2024, the old parsonage at 4815 Kerrs Mill Chapel Road was sold.
• Plans for upgrades to the church marquee, technology systems, and HVAC systems, along with major renovations, will begin in 2025.

Reverend Moss, an educator and a political and social justice advocate, has brought awareness to both the congregation and the broader community. She reintroduced the focus on the “A” in AME during Sunday worship services. Additionally, under her leadership, the Social Action Commission of Caswell and Alamance Counties has experienced ecumenical growth.

Stoney Creek AME Church has been a cornerstone of faith and community for over 200 years, guided by visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to God’s work. As the church looks toward 2025, it continues to honor its rich history while preparing for a future filled with faith, unity, and growth.