Erskine R. Faush Jr. Named Pastor at Birmingham Church

The former city official began his new role at Metropolitan AME Zion Church in September 2026.

Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in People

Erskine R. Faush Jr. Named Pastor at Birmingham Church

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Do you feel that historic local institutions in your area are currently heading in the right direction?

In September 2026, Erskine R. Faush Jr. began his tenure as the pastor of Metropolitan AME Zion Church in Birmingham. He succeeds a legacy at the church, which previously served as a central hub for civil rights demonstrations in the 1960s.

Why it matters

The appointment marks a significant transition for a historic site that was once a primary staging ground for civil rights strategy sessions and demonstrations during the early 1960s. Faush aims to lead a revival at the landmark institution, which now records an average Sunday attendance of about 100 members.

The church currently sees an average attendance of 100 members, a significant decline from the 1,000 members reported in the early 1960s. Weekly services continue to be held at 1530 Fourth Ave. North every Sunday at 10 a.m.

The players

Erskine R. Faush Jr.

He is the current pastor of Metropolitan AME Zion Church and the chief innovation officer for Miles College.

Dwayne Walker

He is the Bishop who announced the appointment of Erskine R. Faush Jr. to the church.

William Bell

He is a former Mayor of Birmingham who previously employed Erskine R. Faush Jr. as his chief of staff.

Erskine R. Faush Sr.

He served as the pastor of Metropolitan AME Zion Church from 1972 until 1993.

The details

Bishop Dwayne Walker appointed Faush to the position, tasking him with leading a revival at the historic Birmingham site. Faush brings experience from his previous role as chief of staff for former Mayor William Bell and his current position as chief innovation officer for Miles College.

The church hosted civil rights mass meetings and strategy sessions in 1962.
The church served as a starting point for civil rights demonstrations in April and May 1963.
Erskine R. Faush Sr. served as pastor from 1972 until 1993.
Erskine R. Faush Jr. began his tenure as pastor in September 2026.
Weekly church services occur every Sunday at 10 a.m.

Market Landscape

The institution's leadership shift occurs as the church attempts to redefine its mission following its historic involvement in the 1963 Birmingham civil rights demonstrations. This transition reflects broader efforts to revitalize legacy community hubs that played critical roles in past local movements.

Members of the congregation can expect a shift in church operations as the new leadership focuses on revitalizing the institution. Those interested in the church's programs or historical legacy can attend weekly services held each Sunday at 10 a.m.

The takeaway

The appointment of a new pastor highlights the ongoing evolution of historic community organizations as they navigate changing demographics and congregational needs. Local leaders and community members often play a vital role in determining the future viability of such storied landmarks.