Please Welcome Our New Pastor!

We are blessed to be led by Rev. Stephanie M. Atkins, a passionate preacher, compassionate shepherd, and community leader who brings a wealth of experience in ministry, education, advocacy, and the arts.

A native of Washington, D.C. and a proud veteran of the United States Navy, Rev. Atkins answered the call to ministry in 2003. Since then, she has served faithfully in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, including ten years on the ministerial staff at Mt. Calvary A.M.E. Church under Rev. Dr. Ann Lightner-Fuller. She received her first pastoral appointment in 2017 and has since pastored congregations in North Carolina, Maryland, and Philadelphia. On June 14, 2025, she became the first woman appointed pastor in the 208-year history of Bethel A.M.E. Church, Lancaster, PA.

Rev. Atkins holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Communications, a Master of Divinity from the Howard University School of Divinity, and a Master of Fine Arts in Nonfiction Writing from Goucher College. She also earned a Certificate in Trauma-Informed Spiritual Care and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry focused on healing and justice.

She serves as the Connectional Herstoriographer for A.M.E. Women in Ministry (WIM) and is a bold advocate for equity, voting rights, and community empowerment. Her civic leadership includes serving as the Managing Administrator of Black Votes PA with Power Interfaith and as the Regional Organizing Director for When We All Vote, covering Maryland and Pennsylvania during the 2024 election cycle.

In addition to ministry and activism, Rev. Atkins is an entrepreneur and creative. She is the owner of Mink’s Signature Foods & Desserts, LLC. and Inspire Consulting Group, and she leads as President of the Lambda Chapter of Rho Alpha Tau, Inc., a Christian organization for writers and artists. She is also a proud member of the Delaware Valley (PA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, where she co-chairs the Scholarship Committee and supports voter engagement efforts.

Rev. Atkins is married to Mr. Ajene (au-ja-nay) Atkins and is the loving mother of two daughters, one bonus son, and the proud GiGi to her 10-year-old granddaughter, Mink, who brings joy and inspiration to her life and ministry.

At Bethel A.M.E. Lancaster, Rev. Atkins leads with vision, wisdom, and a deep love for God’s people.

Her life and leadership reflect her favorite scripture:

"To whom much is given, much will be required." — Luke 12:48