African Methodist Episcopal

The African Methodist Episcopal Church is a denomination that grew out of the Free African Society (FAS) which was a group in the late 1700's that protested slavery in the United States. The AME church, "rejected the negative theological interpretations which rendered persons of African descent second class citizens. Theirs was a theological declaration that God is God all the time and for every body." 

The name of the AME church was derived from the following:

• African - because the church was organized by people of African descent and heritage. 

• Methodist - The church’s roots and gospel were derived from the family of Methodist churches. 

• Episcopal - Refers to the church's government structure - the church is governed by bishops. 

The church welcomes all, not just persons of African descent.

I visited Grant Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church at their 11am Sunday service.

WHERE YOU GO TO GET YOUR PRAISE ON!

The service started out fairly regularly with some singing and praying. There was a call to Worship, scripture reading, and they recited the Apostle's Creed, during the call for prayer - people called out the names of those in need of prayer. 

As a first time guest; they recognized me, had me stand, and gave me a prayer. They told me that I would only be a stranger once at Grant Chapel :) 

There was a male elder of the church who sang a solo, it was truly delightful. 

Reverend Dr. John Hill is the minister and facilitated the service but the sermon was given by a guest Reverend, the Presiding Elder of the 5th District of their church, Reverend Dr. Charles Wharry. Reverend Wharry sermon was about How Not to Sell Out. He talked about the numerous people in the Bible that sold out but there were also many that did not like Joshua. He talked about how Temptation is an attempt to get you to sell out your Birthright. He advised First you must Put God as your Priority and Secondly You must live a life with Godly Principles. Lastly make sure you Ally yourself with the right people who will not deter you from path of God. 

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. ~ Matthew 6:33

The offering was given by members of the church going up to front of the sanctuary and putting it in baskets. Then there was an altar communion, which is the first Sunday of every month. Both men and women were part of the pastoral team. 

There were several aspects of the service that I really liked - the members of the pastoral team prayed before they started service, the congregation held hands and formed a Unity circle and prayed together, the congregation prayed for the Reverend before he gave his sermon. 

                    They were a very friendly group. 

THANK YOU Grant Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church for welcoming me into the Family for the day. 
Post Script I would like to express my deepest sorrow and condolences regarding the tragedy at Mother Emanuel A.M.E. church in June of 2015. May God be with you all and with your beloved families.