Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

As we enter the month of October, we do so with grateful hearts, mindful of the sacred history that surrounds us and the holy responsibility that rests upon us. This season invites us to remember, rejoice, and recommit ourselves to the work God has placed before us.

This October is especially meaningful as we celebrate the renaming of the street in honor of our beloved Founder, Bishop Richard Allen. This recognition is more than a name on a sign; it is a witness to faith, perseverance, justice, who dared to believe that God called him to freedom, dignity, and service.

We also mark 235 years since the purchase of the land upon which Mother Bethel stands. That act of faith was not simply a transaction—it was a declaration. It proclaimed that God’s people would have a place to worship, organize, grow, and serve. Because of that faithful step, Mother Bethel continues to stand as holy ground, a spiritual home, and a beacon of hope.

As we honor our history, we must also embrace the opportunities before us. October will bring continued opportunities for spiritual growth and enrichment—through worship, study, prayer, fellowship, and service. I encourage each of you to make room for God to renew your spirit, deepen your faith, and strengthen your commitment to discipleship.

Beloved, our legacy is not only something we celebrate; it is something we live. We are called to continue serving and to continue being of service—in our church, in our community, and wherever there is need. The same God who guided our ancestors is still guiding us today. The same Spirit that empowered them to build, sacrifice, and persevere is empowering us to carry the work forward.

May this month remind us that we are part of a story greater than ourselves. May we honor the past with gratitude, meet the present with faith, and step into the future with courage.