Our congregation has been invited to visit Mother Bethel AME Church and tour the Richard Allen Museum in its lower level. Richard Allen founded the AME denomination and, in 1791, purchased the land on which Mother Bethel sits, making it the oldest continuously owned parcel of land held by Black people in the United States and sacred not only to the AME church but as a part of Black history in the United States. In November 2025, Reverend Carolyn C. Cavaness made history when she was appointed as the first woman pastor in the 237 years of the church. Please join us to meet our neighbors and recognize the legacy and ongoing importance of Mother Bethel. Please register to let us know if you’re coming!
A few important notes about logistics:
Mother Bethel AME Church is at 419 S. 6th Street; to arrive promptly by 12:30 pm, please plan to leave for Mother Bethel directly after the 11 am worship service. Mother Bethel will serve refreshments, so there will not be a traditional fellowship hour at First Church on this date.
If you drive to First Church, please be on the lookout for those needing a ride! A signup sheet for drivers and those in need of a ride to coordinate among themselves will be posted near the office – please fill your car!
If you prefer to take public transportation, you can use (among other options) SEPTA Bus 12 from Locust & 21st Streets to Pine & 7th Streets or SEPTA Bus 9, 21, or 42 from 21st & Chestnut Streets to 6th & Chestnut Streets. Regular fare is $2.90, which can be paid in various ways, including by tapping a credit card or mobile payment app.