Honoring Our Past Embracing Our Future
Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.
Unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.
—Psalm 127:1
On Saturday, March 22, 2025, Trinity AME celebrated 145 years of Faith and service to the Long Branch Community. Bishop Samuel L. Green, Presiding Prelate of the First Episcopal District, was the guest preacher. Reverend Dr. Lesly R Devereaux, Esq. is the Pastor.
For over 145 years, Trinity African Methodist Episcopal Church has faithfully served the Long Branch community, providing food for the hungry, clothing for those in need, and compassionate outreach to all. Our church remains a beacon of faith, welcoming everyone with love and care.
Our Founding
Trinity AME Church was established in 1875 by the Rev. W. Rodgers, then Pastor of Fair Haven, who negotiated for and secured the church property. The trustees, elected in Long Branch, received the property in trust.
In 1880, the Rev. A. C. Garrison was transferred from New York and officially organized the present church, overseeing its construction.
Our Founders
W. L. Shreves
Alfred Jameson
Samuel Handy
Edward Handy
Caleb Hurdle
Annie M. Garrison
Julie T. Bowles
Martin Handy
Mrs. Crawford Shreves
On August 10, 1880, the land was purchased and fully paid for in cash. It was deeded according to the AME discipline and recorded in the Clerk’s Office in Freehold, N.J., Book 330, Page 76.
On August 19, 1880, the cornerstone was laid by the Rev. T. McCant, assisted by the Rev. S. B. Williams and Rev. C.J. Young of the Reformed Dutch Church. The church was dedicated in August 1882 by Bishop J. P. Campbell.
A Legacy of Leadership
Trinity AME Church has been blessed with dedicated servant leaders who have shepherded this congregation with wisdom and love. Since 1880, seventeen pastors have served as leaders of the church.
Past Pastors Present Today
1989-1992 – Rev. Reginald McCrae
1992-2001 – Rev. Howard L. Grant
Led the construction of a new Pastor’s study and completed a roof replacement.
2005-2008 – Rev. Charles A. Smith
Oversaw new lighting in the sanctuary, kitchen appliance upgrades, and renovations to the Stewardess Room
2008-2013 – Rev. Norwood R. Cuff
Secured essential items, including freezers, office and vestibule furniture, and a new parsonage roof
Rev. Philip Wilson
Reconstructed the finance system and introduced the Family-to-Family Program
2015-Present – Reverend Dr. Lesly R. Devereaux, Esq.
First female pastor in the history of Trinity AME Church
Led major renovations, including:
Construction of the Nehemiah Finance Room
Redecoration of the Pastor’s study
New flooring in the Fellowship Hall
Refurbished Handicap Ramp
New sanctuary ceiling and full interior repainting
Parsonage remodeling
Installation of new air conditioning and heating units
Pulpit and choir loft refurbishment
New security system installation
New Siding on Parsonage
New Roof on Parsonage and Church
Established:
Youth Choir
Annual Remarkable Women Community Service Awards
Annual Trinity Empowerment Day for Young Ladies
Community Outreach & Service
Under Pastor Devereaux’s leadership, Trinity AME Church has expanded its impact with community outreach initiatives, including:
Annual Turkey Distribution – Over 100 turkeys given out this year
Annual Toy Drive – 1,500 toys distributed this year
Weekly Food Distribution – Serving those in need year-round
YPD Super Bowl of Caring – Providing soup and sandwiches
Sock Distribution for Seniors – Ensuring warmth for older adults
Long Branch Think Tank – Founded by the Rev. Devereaux in partnership with the Mayor, NAACP, and community leaders to address pressing local issues.
Trinity Remarkable Women Community Awards Ceremony – Honoring outstanding women in the community.
Collaboration with Congressman Frank Pallone & Mayor Frank Pallone – Fostering police and youth unity initiatives.
As we honor 145 years of faith and service, we celebrate our rich history, strong leadership, and continued commitment to our community. May God bless Trinity AME Church as we move Faith Forward!
Congratulations to Rev. Dr. Devereaux and the Trinity AME Church, Long Branch, NJ on your 145th anniversary. May God continue to strengthen and guide you as you endeavour to make an impact in your community and win souls for Christ.