J 386: Commemorating the 191st Anniversary of the Allen African Methodist Episcopal Church

 Senate Resolution No. 386 BY: Senator SANDERS COMMEMORATING the 190th Anniversary of the Allen African Methodist Episcopal Church WHEREAS, Religious institutions, and the many spiritual, social, and educational benefits they confer, play a vital role in the development of the moral fabric of a responsible citizenry; and WHEREAS, It is the tradition of this State and Nation to pay tribute to those institutions and individuals who have contributed to the ethical and spiritual values of their communities; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 190th Anniversary of the Allen African Methodist Episcopal Church in 2025; and WHEREAS, The history of Allen African Methodist Episcopal Church in Jamaica, New York, begins in 1834, when a small group of visionaries laid the spiritual foundation for the church; the original building was constructed in 1842, with a significant expansion occurring in 1869; and WHEREAS, Over time, the church grew, particularly with the migration of people from the southern states, and experienced various challenges, including financial hardship and a devastating fire in 1944 that destroyed the sanctuary; and WHEREAS, In the 1960s, the church purchased new land, and in 1968, a new edifice was completed; the church faced a devastating firebombing in 1969, but rebuilt once again; by the 1970s, the church had grown significantly, reaching a membership of 1,200 and expanding its outreach to include services for senior citizens; and WHEREAS, In the face of adversity and hardship, this community of faithful and dedicated individuals always remained committed to the church and rebuilt, esnuring the continued growth of this cherished faith-based institution for decades to come; they stand as a testament to the value of resilience and courage; and WHEREAS, In 1976, the Rev. Floyd H. Flake became the pastor, bringing renewed energy and helping the church become a vibrant community center with over 60 clubs and ministries, including outreach programs like street ministry, An Ear to Hear, the Spiritual Life Counseling Ministry, and cancer support to name a few; under his able leadership, the church thrived and gained national recognition for addressing the needs of its community; and WHEREAS, The Rev. Floyd H. Flake retired from this exalted and impactful position in 2021, opening the door for his beloved wife, Rev. Margarett Elaine McCollins Flake, to become pastor; she proudly guided the church through the COVID-19 pandemic and served gracefully and with honor in this capacity until her retirement in 2024; and WHEREAS, Today, the church is a prominent institution known for its global ministry and community impact; in June of 2024, Rev. Stephen A. Green was appointed as the new pastor, continuing the worthy mission of transformation and service to his community and to faithful parishioners; and WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to take note of enduring religious institutions and to bring such institutions to the attention of the people of this Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 190th Anniversary of the Allen African Methodist Episcopal Church; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the Allen African Methodist Episcopal Church.