By Col. James B. L. Payne, Lay Organization, The Historic St. Paul AME –
In a moment of profound spiritual celebration, two of Columbus’ most historic African Methodist Episcopal (AME) congregations—The Historic St. Paul AME Church and Mt. Vernon Avenue AME Church—came together on Sunday for a landmark joint worship service. Held at The Historic St. Paul AME Church, the gathering drew a full sanctuary of worshipers, uniting two vibrant faith communities in a powerful expression of shared heritage, purpose, and joy.
The service marked more than just a collaboration between congregations—it was a moment of spiritual alignment and historical significance for Columbus’ AME community. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and reverence as attendees filled the pews, joining in song, prayer, and praise that echoed with generational faith and cultural pride.
Presiding over the occasion was the Reverend Dr. Aimee Anderson, Presiding Elder of the Columbus District of the South Ohio Conference, who delivered a stirring sermon entitled “Rejoice,” rooted in Philippians 4:4—“Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.” Dr. Anderson’s message emphasized the power of joy in the face of adversity, reminding worshipers that rejoicing is a deliberate act of faith. The sermon brought the congregation to its feet, evoking a wave of applause, amens, and heartfelt reflection. Many attendees remarked that the message was both timely and timeless, echoing the resilience at the core of the AME tradition.
Among those in attendance were several prominent AME leaders, including Third District Lay President Marvin Harris, who praised the service as a “moment of divine alignment.” “What we witnessed today wasn’t just a worship service,” Harris noted. “It was a living testament to the unity, resilience, and joy that define the AME Church. This is our legacy.”
Further elevating the service was a soul-stirring musical performance by a united mass choir, directed by Judge Derek Anderson, Judicial Council secretary and Trustee Pro Tem of The Historic St. Paul. The choir’s harmonies carried the weight of history and the hope of the present, bringing some in the audience to tears. “We didn’t just sing today—we ministered,” said Judge Anderson. “Music becomes transformational when it’s aligned with the Word of God. You could feel chains breaking.” Members from both churches echoed this sentiment, describing the event as both spiritually enriching and historically meaningful. Philipa Houston, an affiliate member of St. Paul AME, reflected, “This was more than a service—it was a celebration of legacy and love. Seeing our congregations united reminded me that we’re always stronger together in Christ.”
Leaders from both churches expressed hope that this gathering would mark the beginning of an ongoing partnership—one rooted in faith, driven by purpose, and inspired by unity. In a time where communities seek healing and connection, this historic worship service stood as a bold and beautiful reminder: when churches come together, miracles happen.
