Presiding Elder Harold R. Mayberry of Oakland (right), Presiding Prelate-Bishop Francine A. Brookins, center, and Senior Pastor Dr. Jason D. Thompson, left, during the “Invitation to Christian Discipleship” at the 175th Anniversary of St. Andrews AME, the oldest AME church in California and in the Western United States. CBM photo by Antonio Ray Harvey.
The overflowing pride, spiritual joy and sense of community was tangible at the oldest African American church in California, St. Andrews African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.). On Nov. 15-16. the congregation celebrated its 175th anniversary with a special church service and a “living museum” event in Sacramento.
Clergy, local elected officials, church auxiliary groups and other well-wishers gathered for the two-day celebration, which honored the founding of the faith community, the ongoing mission of the church, and the legacy it continues to uphold…