California’s Oldest AME Church Celebrates Historic 175th Anniversary

November 27, 2025

St. Andrews African Methodist Episcopal Church in Sacramento, California's oldest African American church, commemorated its 175th anniversary with a two-day celebration featuring religious services and historical exhibits. Founded in 1850 by formerly enslaved men including Daniel Blue in the basement of Blue's home, the church served as a crucial gathering place for California's early Black community and hosted important civil rights conventions during the 1850s and 1860s. The anniversary celebration included youth members portraying historical figures from the church's past, while Bishop Francine A.

Who is affected

The congregation of St. Andrews A.M.E. Church
Rev. Dr. Jason D. Thompson, Senior Pastor
Bishop Francine A. Brookins, Presiding Prelate of the Fifth Episcopal District
Velma Sykes, youth director, and young people who portrayed historical figures
Sidney Towé, who portrayed Sarah Bass Allen
Clergy, local elected officials, church auxiliary groups, and well-wishers who attended
Underrepresented communities in Sacramento served by the church

What action is being taken

Rev. Dr. Jason D. Thompson is leading the church with a focus on Christian witness and advocacy for social justice, political, and educational concerns affecting underrepresented communities
The church is serving as a place for belonging and a base for making a difference in the community
Youth members are learning about the church's history through portraying historical figures

Why it matters

St. Andrews A.M.E. Church represents a vital piece of California's African American history as the state's oldest Black church and the first AME congregation on the West Coast. The church has been a cornerstone for Black activism, social justice, and civil rights advocacy since the Gold Rush era, hosting important conventions where African Americans petitioned for fundamental rights like voting, testifying in court, and accessing public schools. Its 175-year legacy demonstrates the enduring role of Black churches as centers for community organization, education, and liberation, while its continued mission addresses contemporary issues affecting marginalized communities in Sacramento.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint