Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church Shining Stars, Fort Washington

The history of Ebenezer African Methodist Episcopal Church is one rooted in faith. Since moving from the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, DC to Fort Washington, Maryland in 1983, the church has taken many steps of faith, and God has blessed it exceedingly and abundantly. It is a tremendous story of hope. Some people call it “The Miracle on Allentown Road.” The Association of African Methodist Episcopal Scouts (AAMES) is a denominational Scouts Association recognized by the Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts United States of America. Scouting is one of the ministries of Christian Education in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Membership is comprised of individuals and AME congregations who support AAMES goals. Children’s Bible Study is an interactive praise service with teaching, praise and crafts for children beginning at age four. Children come together weekly to lead in prayer, learn about worship and study the word of God. The worship service includes “Praise Breaks” during which the children go “berserk” for God; games including “Bible Holy Man,” a spin on the traditional Hangman game; an Offering Time, during which children give talent and financial offerings, ranging from five cents to five flips; and, of course, a bathroom break. Following the interactive lesson during which children pretend to be Bible characters and engage props and costumes in bringing the Bible to life, each child participates in a craft project. On Friday nights, children are trained in the way they should go so that they will have a firm foundation and will not depart from the Lord when trials and questions arise in their lives. The Bible Study group takes periodic field trips on Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons for children at 4 to 11. Cubs Scouts are from the age of 1st to 5th grade. Boy Scouts are from 5th grade and must complete prior to the age of 18 The Boy Scouts of America is one of the nation's largest and most prominent values-based youth development organizations. The BSA provides a program for young people that builds character, trains them in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and develops personal fitness. For over a century, the BSA has helped build the future leaders of this country by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun. The Boy Scouts of America believes — and, through over a century of experience, knows — that helping youth is a key to building a more conscientious, responsible, and productive society. Meetings are located at Friendly High School 1st and 3rd Friday's from September until May at 7pm. (Website: Boy Scouts Only)