Grace and peace to you in the name of our God of liberation.

First, my deepest gratitude to each of you for your presence, your prayers, and your
witness reminded our community that freedom is not merely remembered—it is
embodied. Thank you for carrying forward the legacy of those who refused to let
their worship be segregated or their dignity denied.

This month, the big day is here. As our nation marks its 250th Semiquincentennial,
we stand with profound awareness that Mother Bethel is not a footnote in this
story—we are foundational. Purchased in 1791 by Richard and Flora Allen,
founded in 1794, our church sits on the oldest parcel of land continuously owned
by African Americans in this nation. While the founders debated the architecture
of a new nation, our ancestors were building the architecture of a free people. This
anniversary is not simply a national milestone; it is a sacred reminder that the
dream of America was always intertwined with the faith and resilience of Black
hands and hearts.

As we move through this historic summer, I encourage each of you to take
the opportunity for rest and respite. The work of freedom is holy, but it is also
demanding. Step back. Breathe deeply. Let the Spirit restore you. For it is in our
rest that we remember who we are, and it is from that place of renewal that we
return to serve with joy.

I am grateful for what God is doing in our midst. I see it in your compassion, your
commitment, and your care for one another. As we serve God, let us continue to
be of service to one another—bearing each other’s burdens, celebrating each other’s
victories, and walking together in the unfinished, beautiful work of freedom.

May God bless you and keep you this July and always.