Dr. Jonathan C. Augustine named senior pastor of historic Big Bethel AME Church in Atlanta, re-igniting social justice legacy

ATLANTA, GA – Big Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, the oldest black church in Atlanta, has appointed Dr. Jonathan C. Augustine as its new senior pastor. 

A nationally recognized pastor, civil rights attorney and scholar,  Augustine brings a dynamic blend of theological depth, legal expertise, and a lifelong commitment to community empowerment to this legendary pulpit on Auburn Avenue.

With its roots as the “City Hall of Sweet Auburn,” Big Bethel has stood as a beacon of faith, education, and activism in Atlanta and beyond. 

In his new role, Augustine plans to honor and revive this trajectory by leaning into the church’s historic commitment to community service, prophetic preaching, and civic engagement. 

“I’m excited to serve as Big Bethel’s faith leader. As Atlanta’s oldest Black church, the ‘City Hall of Sweet Auburn’ was where people organized as part of the fight for civil rights and social justice. Here we are again, at a time when human and civil rights are again under attack, and it’s time to organize again. God saw fit to send me to serve.  As a pastor for both the church and the community, my goal is to help rebirth Big Bethel and take it to higher heights, as a place of inclusion and belonging for all,” said Cr. Augustine.”

 Augustine holds an impressive academic background:

·        Howard University – Bachelor of Arts, Economics

·        Tulane University Law School – Juris Doctor

·        United Theological Seminary – Master of Divinity

·        Duke University Divinity School – Doctor of Ministry

Before entering the ministry, Augustine served as a civil rights litigator and public policy advocate. He is a published author and nationally recognized speaker whose work often explores the intersections of faith, race, and public life.

As Big Bethel embarks on this new chapter, the congregation and broader community look forward to a renewed season of spiritual growth, impactful outreach, and continued leadership in the fight for justice.

About Big Bethel A.M.E. Church

Founded in 1847, Big Bethel is the oldest Black church in the city of Atlanta and a cornerstone of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Located in the heart of Atlanta’s historic Sweet Auburn Avenue District, Big Bethel has long been a center for worship, education, and advocacy.