Jackson Convention (December 15, 1870)

On December 15, 1870, African-American Methodist leaders representing eight annual conferences assembled in Jackson, Tennessee, to organize a new church body that would soon be known as the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church. Jackson, a growing rail center in West Tennessee, stood in a region still scarred by war, displacement, and economic hardship. In that setting, these pastors and elders met not for novelty, but for faithful order—believing that Christ calls His people to worship, discipline, and mission even when society is unsteady.

Their gathering reflected a sober confidence in the promise of the Lord: “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:18). They sought a church governed with accountability, rooted in Scripture, and led under their own oversight for the sake of clearer shepherding and stronger witness.

Discipline, Connection, and Holy Living

The convention adopted a Discipline, establishing doctrine, worship patterns, ministerial standards, and a connectional system meant to guard unity and holiness. In a time when families were rebuilding and communities faced intimidation and poverty, the Discipline served as a practical tool for pastoral care: orderly conferences, faithful preaching, church membership expectations, and the steady work of catechesis, prayer, and sacraments.

The aims were plainly Christian: to nurture holy living, strengthen marriages and households, train children in the faith, and call sinners to repentance and new life. Their vision of freedom was not merely social but spiritual—freedom to obey God, to learn, and to serve.

Bishops William H. Miles and Richard H. Vanderhorst

The body elected William H. Miles and Richard H. Vanderhorst as bishops, providing recognized episcopal leadership to organize conferences, appoint ministers, and stabilize the new denomination’s life. Their election signaled seriousness: a church prepared to govern itself, plant congregations, and sustain pastoral oversight through trials.

Courage, Hope, and Service

The founding leaders displayed quiet heroism—enduring uncertainty without surrendering joy, choosing patient building over bitterness, and laboring for education and mercy ministries alongside worship. Their perseverance echoes: “Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9).