About St. John's

A bit of background

Niagara Falls, New York

St. John's African Methodist Episcopal Church is located in the heart of the city with the city in its heart. Learn what it means to be African Methodist Episcopal and how that identity shapes the life of the church.

Meet the pastor See the leadership team

Our identity

What the AME tradition means here.

Each word in the church's name tells part of its story of heritage, order, and leadership.

African

The church was organized by people of African descent and heritage, while welcoming all who desire to worship and grow in faith.

Methodist

Methodism brings a plain and simple gospel together with an orderly approach to church life and discipleship.

Episcopal

The AME Church is governed by bishops who serve as executive and administrative officers of the denomination.

Church story

A church with the city in its heart.

St. John's is rooted in Niagara Falls and connected to the wider AME tradition.

The church uses the word African to reflect that it was organized by people of African descent and heritage. It does not mean that the church was founded in Africa, or that it is only for people of African descent.

Methodist roots matter at St. John's. Methodism brings an orderly system of rules and regulations together with an emphasis on a plain and simple gospel.

Episcopal points to the way the church is governed. In the AME tradition, bishops serve as the chief executive and administrative officers of the denomination.

A pastoral word

Rev. Makeeda Brooks serves with a ministry shaped by empowerment, spiritual care, and community advocacy.

Rev. Brooks is also the founder of SistaFaith, a faith-based organization that empowers, mentors, and encourages girls and women in the Greater Boston community. Her ministry centers on advocacy, empowerment, and helping people reach their full potential.

"What really matters in your life is that you make a difference in someone's life, and that the difference impacts not only you but everyone around you."

Leadership

A team that helps the church care for people well.

Meet several of the leaders serving in pastoral, administrative, music, evangelism, and ministry roles.

Rev. Makeeda Brooks, M.Div.

Pastor of St. John's AME Church

Leads the congregation with a pastoral, counseling, and community-centered ministry.

Rev. Herman Boyer

Associate Minister

Serves alongside the pastor in worship leadership and pastoral support.

Sis. Nicole Bass

Church Administrative Assistant

Supports the day-to-day communication and coordination work of the church office.