St Stephen AME Detroit

06/19/2026

06/18/2026

On June 17, 2015, nine innocent lives were taken during a Bible study at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina. Eleven years later, we pause to honor the lives, legacies, and faith of the

🕊️ Rev. Clementa Pinckney
🕊️ Rev. Depayne Middleton-Doctor
🕊️ Daniel Simmons Sr.
🕊️ Rev. Sharonda Coleman-Singleton
🕊️ Tywanza Sanders
🕊️ Ethel Lance
🕊️ Myra Thompson
🕊️ Cynthia Hurd
🕊️ Susie Jackson

Their lives represented service, leadership, education, faith, family, and community. Gone, but never forgotten. Their names. Their stories. Their legacy.

06/18/2026

Every year on June 19th, communities across the United States celebrate Juneteenth, the day that marks the end of slavery in the U.S. While many people are familiar with the story of General Granger arriving in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to announce freedom for enslaved people, fewer know the meaning behind the Juneteenth flag. It's more than just red, white and blue. It's packed with symbolism that tells a powerful story of hope, liberation and a brighter future.

The Juneteenth flag was created in 1997 by activist Ben Haith, also known as "Boston Ben," and later refined with help from collaborators like Lisa Jeanne Graf. It was designed to represent not just the history of Juneteenth, but the ongoing journey toward freedom for Black Americans.

The Juneteenth flag is rich in symbolism, representing the enduring spirit and struggle for freedom of Black Americans.

Here’s what each element signifies:

The Colors: The flag’s colors — red, white and blue — were deliberately chosen to demonstrate that even throughout enslavement, African Americans were always American. Some say the red on the flag also represents the blood shed on the journey to freedom.

The Star: The flag is emblazoned with a star, a callback to the U.S. flag demonstrating Black people are free in all 50 states and a nod to Texas, “The Lone Star State.”

The Burst around the Star: Surrounding the star is a nova, or burst, meant to symbolize a new beginning. It reflects the moment of liberation and the fresh start that Juneteenth represents for many.

The Arc: The curved line that stretches across the flag represents a new horizon. It’s about progress, hope and the opportunities that lie ahead for future generations.

The Date: The date “June 19, 1865” was added in 2004 so no one would ever forget what the flag stood for.

Every piece of this flag tells a story. When we fly it or see it during celebrations, we’re not just marking a day in history. We’re acknowledging struggle, honoring resilience and celebrating Black freedom and joy.

Juneteenth is about remembrance and reflection, but it’s also about pride and progress. The flag helps keep that spirit alive, and understanding its meaning makes the celebration that much more powerful.

06/14/2026

💜✨ June Missionary Highlight: Sister Mary E. Fowler ✨💜

This month, we are honored to celebrate Sister Mary E. Fowler, a faithful servant whose life is a beautiful testimony of God's grace, resilience, and unwavering faith.

A member of St. Stephen AME Church since 1972 and a missionary for over 30 years, Sister Mary has dedicated her life to helping others, serving her church family, and sharing the love of Christ through mission work, music, and fellowship. From serving alongside beloved missionaries to leading the Gospel Choir for more than three decades, her impact has touched countless lives.

Through every season of life, including loss, health challenges, and major life transitions, Sister Mary has remained steadfast in her faith. Her testimony reminds us that when we trust God and follow His leading, He will always make a way.

Her message to us all:
✨ "Walk by faith and not by sight."
✨ "God is real."

Thank you, Sister Mary, for being a shining example of faith, service, strength, and love. Your life continues to inspire generations.

Please join us in celebrating our June Missionary Highlight! 🌸

💜

06/13/2026

Announcements for Sunday, June 14, 2026

06/07/2026

Today we honored survivors of gun violence and support the advocates to help end gun violence. We thank Sis. Bonnie Whittaker for leading the efforts to day as we wore orange in support of victims, survivors, and advocates.

06/07/2026

June 7th 2026 St. Stephen AME

06/06/2026

Don’t forget to wear orange tomorrow.

06/06/2026

Announcements for Sunday, June 7, 2026