The Reverend Dr. Susan Hillary Buckson Ephraim is a gifted pastor, preacher, educator, and author committed to Spirit-led ministry, community transformation, and the holistic development of God’s people. Appointed in 2019 by Bishop Reginald T. Jackson, she serves as the first woman pastor of the historic Allen Temple A.M.E. Church in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Dr. Ephraim answered her call to ministry in 1999 at Waters AME Church in Baltimore under the leadership of the Rev. Ronald E. Braxton. She has served the African Methodist Episcopal Church at local, district, and conference levels, equipping congregations and ministry leaders for innovative and practical kingdom work.

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A devoted educator for nearly three decades, Dr. Ephraim previously served in Baltimore City Schools and Atlanta Public Schools, where she earned recognition as the APS System-wide High School Teacher of the Year and a Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award.

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She is the author of The Lenten Experience: A 40-Day Revival and My Praise Is My S.W.A.G., a biblical curriculum for youth and young adults.

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Grounded in Psalm 78:72, Dr. Ephraim leads and serves with “integrity of heart and skillful hands,” proclaiming Christ through preaching, discipleship, and compassionate justice.

 

She is married to the Reverend Dr. Michael G. Ephraim, Sr., pastor of Bethel AME Church in Albany, Georgia, and together they have a beautiful blended family of children and grandchildren.