“Did you know that Mt Pisgah AME Church started in a home?” I ask. It’s a captivating beginning. Right here before us stands this magnificent building. But its story began much more humbly. In 1833 a group of faithful Christians met in Richard Berry’s home at 4100 Ludlow Street Philadelphia. This was the seed of Mt Pisgah AME Church. They later joined forces with Richard Allen and the Bethel Corporation.
Mt Pisgah AME Church is a cornerstone of the African American community. Its history is deeply woven into the fabric of Philadelphia. The church’s early members built their first structure themselves. They worked tirelessly after their day jobs. These dedicated pioneers built their place of worship. They persevered so they could worship God.
The original church stood on Locust Street near 40th Street. It wasn’t the grand structure we see today. It was a simple frame building. Yet it pulsed with faith and community. The congregation grew. Mt Pisgah AME Church was officially incorporated in 1847. Cyrus Burton William Harris and Charles Lendum served as the first stewards. John Henry Curtis Kane and Michael Johnson were the first trustees. Roberta Washington holds a special place in history. She was the church’s first woman trustee.
In 1942 the church moved to its present location. A devastating fire struck in 1943. The sanctuary was destroyed. The lower level was damaged beyond repair. Undeterred members worshipped in tents. They showed resilience in the face of hardship. They rebuilt Mt Pisgah AME Church. Their faith remained strong. This time the church was bigger and better. Reverend Emmer H Booker’s leadership was vital. He instilled a belief that nothing is impossible with God.
During the 1980s Mt Pisgah AME Church gained national recognition. Its distinctive Gothic architecture was featured on the TV show “Amen”. This show aired on NBC. The show starred Sherman Hemsley as Deacon Frye and Clifton Davis as the pastor. Mt Pisgah AME Church became known as the “Amen” church.
Over the years Mt Pisgah AME Church has been more than a place of worship. It’s been a center of education and community support. The church has provided scholarships and financial aid. It’s supported Allen University in South Carolina. The Laymen of Mt Pisgah Federal Credit Union continues to thrive. It was established in 1957. Mt Pisgah AME Church continues its ministry of service. This church serves God and all humankind. It’s a testament to faith perseverance and community. It’s a living legacy of hope. This is Mt Pisgah AME Church a place of profound faith and enduring legacy.