Wilmington had many churches at the outbreak of the Civil War.  African Americans being allowed to use many of them for afternoon services.

St. James Episcopal and Front Street Methodist pre-war registers list black members. 

After the war, in remarkably short time, numerous congregations were formed for many houses of worship constructed.  From the beginning, churches placed emphasis on education.

They formed parochial schools, instigated adult literacy classes, and constantly promoted the idea that a good education was the means by which one could get ahead in life.

The church also served as the main outlet for recreation - holding concerts, lectures, debates and other types of social activities.

Another church activity involved politics - sponsored by and held in every church in the city - and often political rallies began and ended at a local church.

Bishop James Walker Hood was responsible for the establishment of many AME Zion churches in North Carolina, including St. Luke's AME Zion in Wilmington.

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