Christian Education Department

The Christian Education Department of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church will become a premiere resource for developing credible, committed Christian disciples, specifically emphasizing discipleship with African Americans and those throughout the African diaspora.

Buds of Promise

AGE GROUP: Ages 1 - 12
MOTTO: "Blooming All for Jesus" 
COLORS: Green (grow) and White (purity) 
THEME SONG: "Blooming All for Jesus". 
MISSION: The Buds of Promise are the Juvenile Society of the WH & OM Society. The mission of the WH & OM Society is to establish Christian learning environments and experiences for all children (ages 1 through 12) through Mission Education. These experiences will enable each child to acquire the knowledge, beliefs and attitudes that are essential to his/her spiritual development as an individual and are necessary for the attainment of a meaningful life. 

Bishop Stephen Gill Spottswood Acolytes

AGE GROUP: Ages 1 - 21

PLEDGE: I give the best of my time, talent and treasure to God through Discipleship, Leadership and Service.

COLORS: Black, Red and Green represents our heritage as African Americans.• Blue symbolizes our beloved Zion.• White represents the purity of holiness

MISSION: Our mission is to develop acolytes to be keepers of the altar. Acolytes will learn how to act liturgically, handle the holy articles of the church, help people worship and serve the community.

What a wonderful way for our young people ages eight through 21 to lead our worship through the carrying of the processional cross, lighting of candles and ministry to the altar.

Varick International Christian Youth Council

MISSION:  The mission of the Varick International Christian Youth Council is to develop youth committed to living spirit-filled Christian lives and to teaching others how to be disciples of Jesus Christ.

PURPOSE:  The purpose of ViCYC is the cultivation of spiritual development among persons 13-21 and to provide representation for the youth of this denomination. ViCYC coordinates youth activities, channels their concerns and presents their collective contributions to the AME Zion Church. ViCYC is the avenue with which the youth of the church can develop their abilities and walk through problems in relationship with other teens and supportive adults can work on their development tasks. ViCYC provides opportunity for implementation of successful youth councils in the local church, and on the district and conference levels.

COLORS: Red (the blood of Jesus) & Purple (royalty)

Youth Missionaries

The Youth Missionary Society, formerly called the Young Women’s Missionary Society was organized in 1909 in Salisbury, NC by its founder and first General Secretary, Miss Victoria Richardson.  It was adopted in May 1912 in Charlotte, NC.  We honor and recognize Miss Victoria Richardson Day on the second Sunday of each January which is closest to her birthday on January 12.  The Y’s Society was organized to give the opportunity and privilege for young ladies to serve others.  Young men are now allowed to become honorary members; however, they have no voting privileges and may not hold an office position.

Children's Choir

Varick's Children is a ministry that provides Christian education to our young people through catechism, discipleship, "Know your Church", and inspirational resources.