Bright Chapel A.M.E. Church, Syracuse

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 In 1965, a group of believers separated from People’s A.M.E. Zion Church. Among them was Rev. Ernest Boston. Under his leadership, Bright Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church was organized that same year. The congregation was named in honor of Bishop Bright, and Rev. Boston became its first pastor. 

Following its organization, Bright Chapel held worship services in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. This arrangement continued until 1967, when the congregation purchased its first building at 817 South Street in Syracuse, New York, establishing a permanent place of worship. 

 Over the years, many under-shepherds have served Bright Chapel A.M.E. Church. These include:

• Rev. Roger Reid
• Rev. Herbert Bonaparte
• Rev. John Jones
• Rev. Albert Turk
• Rev. John James Anderson
• Rev. Edward Bailey
• Rev. Elijah Green
• Rev. Percy Jones
• Rev. Averhard
• Rev. Betsy Crummity
• Presiding Elder James E. F. Lawrence

Bright Chapel has since moved from its South Street location and is currently renting space at University United Methodist Church. The congregation is also exploring a potential partnership with Syracuse University. Rev. James E. F. Lawrence is scheduled to meet with the Chancellor of Syracuse University to discuss how Bright Chapel can effectively expand its impact within the community.