Reverend Nina Pryor
When Reverend Nina Pryor became the leader of S.S. Morris Church in October 2024, she brought with her a story of resilience, faith and love. Her unexpected journey to ministry began in April 2014, during her role as church administrator in Rockford, Illinois.
After years of service at her home church, she received the call to preach. By 2017, she was ordained, and in 2021, she was assigned to lead a church in Delavan, Wisconsin. “It’s been a journey of faith,” Rev. Pryor reflected.
Key mentors shaped her path, including Pastor Charlene B. Mills, a 40-year ministry veteran at Allen Chapel. “She was a godsend to the church,” she said. Additionally, Pryor’s late grandmother, whose unwavering support inspired Rev. Pryor’s dedication. “She was my biggest supporter,” she recalled.
Now leading S.S. Morris Community AME Church, Rev. Pryor’s philosophy centers on love. “Love conquers all. When you love one another, your community and God, everything is destined to succeed,” she said. While she initially felt unsure about change and starting in a new role, she has embraced the opportunity to build connections and foster a sense of belonging in Madison.
Rev. Pryor’s goals include expanding outreach initiatives such as the church’s food pantry and jail ministry. She is also passionate about creating safe spaces for youth. “My goal is to provide a haven for mentorship and growth,” she shared. “We need to nurture our youth and show them healthy, supportive spaces where they can thrive.”
Over everything, faith fuels Rev. Pryors leadership. “Faith is my gasoline,” she said. “Without it, I would have burned out long ago.” As a leader in the Black church, she takes pride in the legacy of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, founded by Richard Allen. “The AME Church speaks to our heritage and strength,” she said. “African American history is American history. Confidence in our roots helps us move forward.”
Rev. Pryor integrates social justice into her ministry, guided by Methodist principles and a commitment to community. As part of her initiatives, she hosted a MLK Ecumenical Service on Sunday, January 19 at S.S. Morris Church, honoring Dr. King’s legacy and the Black church’s contributions to social justice.
“The church has always been a focal point of social justice,” Rev. Pryor noted. “It’s a responsibility we embrace to continue making an impact.”
As Rev. Pryor leads S.S. Morris Church into a new chapter, her vision of love and service shines brightly, exemplifying the church’s role in shaping history and inspiring change.
