From my earliest days in the Baptist Church, I recall the moving strains of “If I Can Help Somebody as I Pass Along.” This cherished hymn often graced the homegoing services of those whose lives left an indelible mark. It is often sung as a plaintive elegy of excellence, reserved for those whose impact has been extraordinary—but the lyrics are inspiring because they call the listener to higher service in Christ Jesus for his fellow man.
Today, its words resonate deeply as Bethel AME Church in Tallahassee bids a fond farewell to an era of profound care and leadership under Bishop Julius H. McAllister, Jr., who served faithfully for 16 years.
This summer, in Columbus, Ohio, McAllister was elected and consecrated as the 144th Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the oldest Black denomination in the western hemisphere, founded in 1816. Now entrusted as Presiding Prelate of over 300 churches in Alabama, Bishop McAllister continues his divine calling to serve and uplift.
On Oct. 12, 2008, “Reverend Julius” answered God’s call as the 35th pastor and senior minister of Bethel AME Church, guided by Jeremiah 3:15, “And I will give you shepherds according to My heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.”