Ebenezer began after the Civil War with the appointing, by Bishop S. Janes, of Rev. John S. Swain of the Newark Annual Conference to the pastoral care of the church in Jacksonville.  He arrived on July 18, 1864.  At this time, twenty-eight 'colored' people enrolled their names as members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.  The church was first called Zion Methodist Episcopal Church.  The church grew under the ministerial guidance of Rev. T. Willard Lewis.  Membership increased with the help of the Presiding Elder John S. Swain, and an official board was organized.  Through this body, a lot on the corner of Clay and Ashley Streets was purchased and a rough building was erected for worship.

In 1870, Bishop Janes held the First Annual Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church.  At this time, Rev. J.G. Thompson was appointed pastor.  The church continued to grow under new pastors who sought to bring about God's kingdom here on Earth.

One of the great milestones of the church was experienced on Friday, July 11, 1881.  A daylight prayer meeting was held, followed by Love-Feast, and serving of the Lord's Supper closed the end of worship in this temporary building.  God was still blessing His people.  On Thursday, October 13, 1881, at 4:00 PM, Ebenezer was born.  As members marched into the new edifice, praising God, the words of the great hymn, "Come Thy Fount," was sung.  The epitome of it all were the words led by our beloved "Ma Smith" (Mrs. Olivia White-Smith):  "Here I'll raise mine Ebenezer, hither by, thy help I've come."  Thus Ebenezer became our "shibboleth" (our stronghold, watchword).

The turning point of the 1940s marked an era of Christian ministries throughout the community.  Rev. C.K. Brown and Rev. Eddie Rivers served Ebenezer for several years.  After a great hiatus, we moved into the middle 1940s with Rev. and Mrs. Evan Hurley.  Their ministry revolved around the youth of the church, thus assuring the future of the church.  We realized great spiritual growth during their tenure.  Rev. Hurley served for six years; then death claimed him.  However, the membership was able to thrive with great aplomb.  Ebenezer was on solid ground.

Ebenezer, proud of its heritage, was always an asset to the community through its board and meaningful programs.  In 1970, in compliance with urban renewal, Ebenezer was moved from Clay and Ashley Streets to its present location-9114 Norfolk Boulevard.  Rev. E.W. Newman (now Bishop Newman) was pastor.  Rev. Newman was appointed District Superintendent of the Melbourne District.  In 1972, Rev. Cubell Johnson became pastor.  During his pastorate, the church continued to grow.  In 1974, Rev. Dr. Thomas Harris was appointed to serve.  This charge, he called "The Historic Methodist Church," being the first organized United Methodist black congregation.  The church experienced growth in membership.  It also took on a new spirit- called "A Fellowship of Love"- characterized by the ritual of members shaking hands, greeting others within reach at the close of service, and saying "I Love You Brother/Sister."  Mission emphasis took on added dimensions, and pastoral care of the congregation and community reflected true leadership.  Attention given to the aging and elderly led to a special program emphasis.  A church van was purchased for transporting the elderly and children to Sunday school and church.  During this tenure, the church and parsonage became debt-free.  The cornerstone was laid-Bishop Joel McDavid, presiding.

Increased church involvement and financial support are reflected in the accomplishments of a determined and beautiful people.  For church expansion, additional land (Norfolk Boulevard) was purchased and paid in full. 

Pastors have come and gone-Rev. Roosevelt Dell, Jr., Rev. William Leslie, Rev. Robinsky Reed, Rev. Newton Williams, Rev. Dr. Willie J. Bailey, and Rev. Debra Thompson- each leaving a legacy of trust and assurance that God's House and His Word will stand forever.  And so, we come today with our present pastor, Rev. Mary Jackson, to reaffirm our faith in God, making sure Ebenezer will weather the storm and serve as a monument to God and His people.