Blondell and Betty- Double Connection 2-15-26

We met at the Lindenwold Senior Center and from that point there has been a bond not only between the two of us, but also with the other seniors. It was revealed through conversations that we have a lot in common. The most important of all is, we are sisters in Christ. Although both of us had similar denominational doctrinal beliefs over the years mine is non-denomination, there is no barrier between us.

We have so much in common- Blondell is from Charleston, South Carolina, and I was born in Gibsonville and mainly raised in Greensboro North Carolina. She relocated to Lindenwold around 1979; I have been living in both the north and the south off and on since 1960. From Greensboro to the Bronx, and from there to Jersey City, on to Camden (I lived there two times), and Philadelphia, back to Greensboro and finally to Lindenwold.

Blondell and I have something else in common; our history.

We love African American history and it is exciting to share with each other. We talk about the north and the south, especially when it comes two African American towns that are full of history. These two towns had a lot in common; Princeville, the oldest African American town in the United States (founded in 1885) was established by formerly enslaved individuals. Lawnside is the oldest African American Borough north of the Mason Dixon Line; founded in 1886.

Shortly after the tornado (Floyd) destroyed Princeville, North Carolina, I was blessed to visit the town and after it was reconstructed. A friend from Philly and I visited the library in Tarboro (next door to Princeville) and obtained the history of Princeville. The librarian printed copies and gave mine to a friend who lived in Lawnside. Years later, another friend and I traveled to her home in Tarboro, and from there went to Princeville, which is next door to Princeville.

Now to the early years of our Christianity-  Blondell and her connection with Mt. Zion UM Church in Lawnside, New Jersey

1828-Current

Mt. Zion has been part of the Methodist Church Connectional system since its origin, when in 1815 twelve members worshipping with the Methodist assemblage at Mt. Pisgah Methodist Episcopal Church, Free Haven, NJ, chose not to continue. Rev. Richard Allen, founder of the AME Church and Mother Bethel AME Church, Philadelphia, PA was the "Circuit Rider" Preacher and Pastor of Mt. Pisgah, providing spiritual leadership for the congregation at that time.

Rev. Allen declared Mt. Pisgah independent of its original connection with the Methodist church and called for a vote of support.  The Still family has a long history throughout generations and they have a prominent presence in Lawnside and at the church. In fact, their current pastor is Rev. Clifford Still, Sr.

Betty still considers St John her home church that was a vital part of her early years.

The little old country church was where my new life began.

St. John AME cinderblock church in Gibsonville, North Carolina- St. John AME Church in Gibsonville, NC, has a rich history rooted in the African Methodist Episcopal tradition.

Founding and Early Years

Established in the late 19th century, the church serves the local African American community.

The new church was built later, on the same property. The old church is still there closer to the church cemetery. St. John AME Church continues to hold regular services. Many of my family members are still there including one of my aunts.

We hope you enjoyed reading Blondell and Betty’s connection.

Betty A. Burnett ~ burnettministries.org