About us
Welcome to the history of Allen Chapel AME Church, where our journey of faith began in 1910 and continues to flourish today. From our humble beginnings in a barn to becoming a cornerstone of the Daytona Beach community, God's presence has been the guiding force through every season. Our church's legacy is built on the prayers, dedication, and resilience of those who came before us, always seeking to serve and glorify God. As we honor our past, we remain committed to carrying forward the mission of Allen Chapel, trusting in God's plan for the future.
Allen Chapel AME Church: A Testament to God's Faithfulness
1910 - 1914
In the Beginning – God’s Guidance in a New Journey
In the early 1900s, the Black community of Daytona Beach was confined to a small area, but God's presence was vast. Among the faithful at Mt. Zion AME Church, located in "Way Cross," a group of worshippers from the Mid-Way section of town felt God calling them to begin a new journey. After a close encounter with a bear on their walk home from service, they knew God was leading them to establish another church. With prayerful hearts, they formed a committee and, by God’s grace, their request to start a new congregation was granted in 1910 by the Presiding Bishop. On March 8, 1910, under the leadership of the late Rev. J.W. Allen, Allen Chapel AME Church was organized. The first worship services were held in a humble barn, but the congregation’s faith in God propelled them to dream bigger.
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With steadfast faith, they laid the cornerstone of their first church on November 22, 1914. God's hand guided their work, and through the sweat and prayers of the members, a sacred space was established where God's presence would dwell.
1914 - 1951
Growing in Faith – A Legacy of Worship and Service
As the church grew, so did the need to serve its youngest members. Led by a spirit of dedication to God’s children, the church petitioned the Rt. Reverend John A. Gregg for a youth center. Through prayer and hard work, the Youth Education Building’s cornerstone was laid on September 30, 1951. This space became a beacon for young souls, providing them a place to grow in their faith and knowledge of God.
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God’s Faithful Servants – Honoring the Founders and Pioneers
The founders of Allen Chapel, including families like the Bacons, Grants, and Cowarts, believed in the power of God's providence. They laid the foundation not only for the physical church but for a community of believers who would thrive through the generations. We honor their legacy, knowing that without their obedience to God’s call, we would not be here today.
1980 - 2000
God’s Guidance Through Transition and Expansion
Throughout the decades, God continued to bless Allen Chapel. In the 1980s and 1990s, under the leadership of various pastors, including Rev. B.H. Martin Sr. and Rev. Michael Bouie, the church saw the purchase of new land and the beginning of a long-awaited expansion. In 1993, members prayed together and marched from their old sanctuary to the new worship center, a testament to their faith in God’s promises. The dedication service on March 19, 1994, marked a new chapter in Allen Chapel’s history—a physical reflection of the spiritual growth and devotion of its congregation.
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Faithful to God’s Mission – Expanding Ministry and Community Outreach
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the church’s outreach ministries flourished, serving the spiritual and physical needs of the community. The dedication of spaces like the Cora E. Ford Multipurpose Center and the Rev. Delores Merritt Prayer Room underscored Allen Chapel's commitment to fostering fellowship and worship. The church became a center of service, guided by God’s love.
2007 - 2023
A Season of Growth and Expansion
In December 2007, God sent the Reverend Nathan M. Mugala to lead Allen Chapel AME Church, ushering in a season of empowerment and growth. His ministry focused on deepening discipleship, expanding outreach, and nurturing vibrant ministries that would transform the church and the community. Under Rev. Mugala's leadership, several new ministries were established, including the Couples Ministry, Musokanji Praise & Worship Team, Collegiate Ministry, Sophisticated Seniors Ministry, and more.
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Allen Chapel's commitment to community service also expanded under his guidance, with the church becoming a driving force in local justice ministries, partnerships with the NAACP, and ongoing efforts in education and youth development through the Young People’s Division (YPD) and the Women’s Missionary Society. Rev. Mugala's leadership reflected a deep love for people and a vision for Allen Chapel to be a beacon of hope in Daytona Beach, continuing to walk in the spirit of its founder, Richard Allen.
Present
A New Era of Service and Spiritual Leadership under
Rev. Eddie Lake
As we stand on the foundation built by generations past, Allen Chapel AME Church remains a vibrant community dedicated to worship, service, and spiritual growth. Under the dynamic leadership of Pastor Rev. Eddie Lake and First Lady Rev. Dr. Paula Lake, we are committed to fulfilling God’s mission for our church in the present day.
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Today, Allen Chapel continues to be a beacon of hope and faith in Daytona Beach. Our congregation is deeply engaged in ministry, education, and outreach, ensuring that the love of Christ reaches both our members and the surrounding community.
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As we continue our journey, we trust in God’s guidance, knowing that He is calling us to do even greater things. With hearts full of gratitude for His faithfulness, we look forward to all that He has in store for Allen Chapel AME Church. We remain committed to being a church that serves, loves, and leads by example, ensuring that our ministry today honors the legacy of the past and builds a strong foundation for the future.