NIMNO AME CHURCH HISTORY

1853-2024 

In the year of our Lord, Eighteen hundred and Fifty-three, Nimno had its birth under a big, wide, open brush arbor.  The land was donated by Mr. Nimno, for whom the church was named.  There were only a few members then, praising and serving God in the only way they knew how.  Since that time, the membership has increased significantly, although it remains relatively small in number. Some of the early members have passed on, and others have moved to other parts of the world. There is limited knowledge of what happened between 1853 and 1909.  We do know that the Reverend Willie Jones was the first pastor, and the Reverend J.S. Robinson was the pastor in 1910.

Since those early years, numerous pastors have come and gone.  In 1911, the Reverend Gilham came. Then the Reverend Griffin came but was called from labor to reward before completing his term.  Reverend Thomas was then appointed to complete the unexpired term of Reverend Griffin.  The Annual Conference convened in 1918, and at the time, Reverend S.F. Harris was appointed leader of the flock here at Nimno.  The Annual Conference selections of pastors for Nimno were Reverend Joseph Pope, Reverend Hill, Reverend Lawrence, Reverend Dowel, Reverend Sam White, and Reverend Lowe.

In 1930, an unfortunate incident occurred; the Church was d

In 1930, an unfortunate incident occurred; the Church was destroyed by fire.

In 1942, Nimno was blessed with Reverend W.D. Cash.  Reverend Cash provided tireless service to this congregation for eighteen years, until 1960.

When the Annual Conference convened in 1960, Reverend M.C. Broughton was sent to Nimno.  He served us well until February 1963.  After Reverend Broughton’s tenure, Reverend Hasden was followed by W.L. Wrenfro, who served as our leader. Later, Reverend W.S. Smith successfully guided us through many activities and events for many years.  Following Reverend Smith, Reverend T.B. Blandingburg became our fervent leader, and his leadership plans were implemented to build the present church. Reverend Blandingburg believed that it was essential for a church to have an active Missionary Society.  During his pastoring, that too became a reality; he was an exemplary leader.

From 1973 until 1975, our church was blessed with the leadership of Reverend Lloyd Jackson.  Due to his broad vision and scope, he never allowed his message to be confined to just one local church. Still, he involved the congregation in Civic, Political, National, and even International affairs.

In 1975, Reverend Jonathan J. Baker was a very energetic gospel student and supporter of Church Auxiliaries. As a result of his energy and support, the JJ Baker Gospel Choir was formed. 

Stopping by for just a little while was the dynamic Reverend Jeffery B. Cooper.  His knowledge and youthfulness sustained the surge of growth that had become a part of Nimno.  Reverend Cooper was with us for less than a year.

In 1980, another young, dynamic man brought his efforts and youthfulness to Nimno to continue what had been started by those who preceded him.  This was none other than the Reverend Kenneth E. Marcus and his lovely wife, Cassandra.  Reverend Marcus pledged to continue the struggle, to work hard, and to make the light here at Nimno shine throughout the community and wherever it may be seen.  Under his leadership, the church was refurbished, and the educational and dining area neared completion.

In the summer of 1983, another young man came our way by the name of Reverend Walter Marcus, along with his wife, Pat, and their three lovely daughters.  We are still striving, as Good Soldiers Fighting in the Army of the Lord.

In June 1986, another young man, Reverend Ralph R. Taylor, along with his wife, Betty, and their daughter, arrived. Rackell.  For two years, Reverend Taylor gave of his time and willingness to serve in the church and community.  

Under Reverend Taylor's leadership as pastor, our church welcomed its first ordained female, Dr. Sarah S. Billups. Additionally, Reverend Taylor officiated the first recorded wedding in our church between Cheryl Goss and Wallace Long.

 In May 1988, Nimno was blessed with the addition of Reverend James L. Lawson, his wife Jetty, and their daughter, Inza. Reverend Lawson took the initiative to install a new church sign with lights, symbolizing a renewed commitment to outreach and community service since June of 1988. Plans are underway to install a central heating and air conditioning system in the church and make improvements to the grounds, reflecting our dedication to enhancing our facilities. With God as our guide, Nimno A.M.E. will continue to progress. During the annual Conference, Nimno welcomed Reverend Edward Coley, Reverend Henry D. Andrews, Reverend Henry Barbor, and Reverend Kenneth C. Williams, who were appointed to serve our congregation.

 From 1997 to 2003, Nimno was led by Reverend Latham Mills, who was appointed during the Annual Conference alongside his wife, Sharron, and their two children, Alexandria and Christopher. Under his guidance, the sanctuary underwent enhancements including new lighting, stained glass windows, and improvements to the grounds.

Following Reverend Mills, from 2003 to 2005, Reverend Debbie Grant Neal became the first female pastor to serve at Nimno, alongside her husband, Reverend Nathaniel Neal, who was pastor at First A.M.E. during that period. Reverend Grant Neal's vision brought about significant changes, including transitioning the church to worship four Sundays a month instead of two, reinstating Bible Study and Church School programs, and implementing additional improvements to the grounds, Sanctuary, Fellowship Hall, and Administrative Office.

Between 2005 and 2013, Nimno was under the leadership of Reverend Rae Fitch, alongside her husband Wayne and son, Matthew. Reverend Fitch introduced a vibrant music ministry to the church and expanded its outreach through hip-hop, mime, dance, and technological advancements. These efforts led to the development of a church website and enhancements to the annex.

Following Reverend Fitch's tenure, from May 2013 to 2015, the Reverend Dr. Sarah Sims Billups served as pastor. Her leadership prioritized learning and implementing the Discipline of the AME Church.

 From May 2015 to 2016, Reverend Tony Brownlee assumed leadership at Nimno, alongside his wife, Stacy. Reverend Brownlee consistently reminded the congregation of the blessings already bestowed upon them by God.

In June 2015, the General Conference approved the transfer of churches, starting at the Jackson County line, from the Augusta, Georgia, Conference to the Atlanta North Georgia Conference in the East Atlanta District.

On May 1, 2015, Reverend James L. Lawson was reappointed to Nimno A.M.E. Church, accompanied by his wife Jetty and their three grandchildren, Shelton, Ambier, and Ambitious. Under Reverend Lawson's guidance, significant improvements were made to the church infrastructure, including the installation of a new roof, interior and exterior painting, additional lighting in the annex, repair of the church ceiling, and a transition to a total electric heating system. Additionally, youth services were established on the second Sunday, youth ushering on the fourth Sunday, and Bible study commenced at noon on Wednesdays.

On June 14, 2018, Rev. Elliott S. Robinson, JD, MDiv, was appointed to Nimno, along with his wife, Ayanna, and daughters, Patricia and Julia. Rev. Robinson launched “Service Saturday” Community Service Initiative, Angel Tree Ministry, Church Social platform (Website, Givelify, Internet connectivity) and implemented Faith Works Member Management Software, facilitated donation of a commercial grade freezer, adopted a 4th grade class at Barnett Shoals Elementary School, partnered with the Atlanta Community Food Bak of NE Georgia, and revived the music ministry with the addition of musicians to worship. Rev. Robinson ensured the grounds of the church were well-maintained and groomed. Pastor Robinson led us through the COVID-19 pandemic with worship services outside under the tent and Virtual worship.  

On May 22, 2022, Rev. Toney McDonald was appointed Pastor to Nimno and was instrumental in leading us with worship each Sunday. He revived the men's and women's music ministry.

During the 149th Session of the Atlanta North Georgia Annual Conference, May 10-12, 2023, Rev. Darlene M. Smith was appointed to Nimno. Rev. Smith focused on getting to know us and building relationships with each of us. She immediately reconnected and revived our Sunday School hour, focusing on the study of A.M.E. Sunday School quarterly lessons, before Sunday Worship. Rev. Smith meets face-to-face for Bible Study each Tuesday at Noon, teaching and expounding on the Scriptures. Rev. Darlene Smith was instrumental in making repairs to the men's and women’s restrooms to install hot water. Under her leadership, we have made significant repairs to the Pastor's Study and are currently working on repairs to our fellowship hall. We are grateful for our role in installing a Church Marker for our church, marking 171 years of our existence. There is still more work to be done, and we are moving toward a goal of increasing our church growth, discipleship, and community outreach.

We conclude our historical tribute by acknowledging the dedication of the Presiding Elders who have faithfully served over the years. They are: Presiding Elder Dr. Downs, Presiding Elder D.W. Wigs, Presiding Elder E.D. Curry, Presiding Elder C.E. Shepherd, Presiding Elder S.W. Wicker, Presiding Elder J.F. Booker, Presiding Elder M.S. Colquitt, Presiding Elder D.C. Grant, Presiding Elder Ella Mae Samuels, Presiding Elder Dr. Earle Ifill, Presiding Elder, Dr. Thomas Bess, and our current Presiding Elder, Dr. Thomas R. Stegall.