Summit’s “Conscience of Our Community” Rev. Dr. Denison Harrield Reflects on 50 Years of Faith, Leadership and Service

Fifty years ago on July 11, Rev. Dr. Denison D. Harrield Jr. delivered his first sermon — a message rooted in faith, perseverance, and a belief that God’s work continues.

On July 11, 1976, Harrield preached his Trial Sermon at St. Paul A.M.E. Zion Church at 304 N. Willow Street in Trenton, drawing from Luke 18:35-43 with a message titled “God Still Works Miracles.”

The pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Zion Church at the time was Rev. Dr. O. R. Lyons, whose leadership marked the beginning of Harrield’s journey into ministry.

After five decades of preaching and nearly four decades shepherding Wallace Chapel, Harrield continues to share the same message he delivered in Trenton in 1976:
“God Still Works Miracles.”

“Fifty (50) years ago today, July 11, 1976, I preached my Trial Sermon at St. Paul A.M.E. Zion Church,” Harrield wrote in a Facebook post reflecting on the anniversary. “My subject was ‘God Still Works Miracles.’”

Two years later, in May 1978, Harrield received his first pastoral appointment when Bishop William M. Smith appointed him pastor of Antioch A.M.E. Zion Church in Linden, where he served for 11 years.

On Oct. 1, 1989, Bishop Alfred G. Dunston Jr. appointed Harrield pastor of Wallace Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church in Summit, beginning a relationship with the city that has now spanned 37 years.

“After 50 years in the ministry and 48 years as a Pastor, I am a witness that God still works miracles,” Harrield wrote. “Thank you God for calling me to preach, to pastor, to serve, and for your continuing blessings and favor on my life and ministry. Every day of my life I experience your grace, mercy, and love and I just say thank you, God.”

Since arriving at Wallace Chapel, Harrield has become one of Summit’s most recognizable faith and community leaders, known for his work extending beyond the pulpit into interfaith cooperation, civic engagement, and community service.

Over nearly four decades in Summit, Harrield has served as a bridge between religious communities and civic organizations, including leadership roles with the Summit Interfaith Council, Summit Housing Authority, SAGE Eldercare, the New Jersey Council of Churches, and as chaplain for the Summit Police Department.

Before entering ministry, Harrield served as a U.S. Air Force intelligence officer and later spent 18 years with NY Telephone, experiences that shaped his lifelong commitment to service.

In 2021, the City of Summit honored Harrield with its Volunteer Award, recognizing decades of contributions to the community. Former Mayor Nora Radest described him as “the conscience of our community,” highlighting his commitment to service and his willingness to help whenever called upon.

Wallace Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church, where Harrield continues to serve, has its own deep connection to Summit history. Founded in 1923, the church building at Broad and Orchard streets is listed on the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places.

The milestone has drawn an outpouring of appreciation from members of the community.

“God blessed you, knowing that you would be a Blessing, and that you have been,” one person wrote in response to Harrield’s post. “Fifty years of service, dedication and love. God’s Grace, and Mercy!”

Another wrote: “Your ministry is a blessing to your people and to your community. Your friendship and faith support to me are much appreciated.”

After five decades of preaching and nearly four decades shepherding Wallace Chapel, Harrield continues to share the same message he delivered in Trenton in 1976:

“God Still Works Miracles.”