Saint Luke African Methodist Episcopal Church concluded its 100th Anniversary weekend with a powerful celebration of faith, history, and forward vision. More than 400 people gathered for the Centennial Gala and worship service, helping raise over $7,000 in support of the Saint Luke Development Corporation, the church’s newly rebranded nonprofit arm dedicated to community uplift and multi-generational outreach.
The Development Corporation, relaunched in 2024, will expand Saint Luke’s capacity to:
- Provide essential resources to families in need
- Support youth mentorship and leadership development
- Amplify social justice and community advocacy initiatives
Learn more or give at https://givebutter.com/SLCDC
Special Guests & Honorees
The Centennial Gala honored distinguished leaders and changemakers who reflect Saint Luke’s legacy of service, culture, and community empowerment. Honorees included:
- Dennis “Cake Man Raven” McDonald – Entrepreneur and owner of Cake Man Raven
- Tamika D. Mallory – Author and nationally recognized social justice leader
- Council Member Dr. Yusef Salaam – New York City Council, District 9
- Dr. Hiral Shah, MD – Assistant Professor of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center
- Anita Parker – Community activist and multi-generational advocate
- Elder Kim Anderson – Presiding Elder, Manhattan District, African Methodist Episcopal Church
The evening also featured a special musical performance by Grammy Award–winning gospel artist Hezekiah Walker.
A Historic Worship Celebration
On Sunday morning, Saint Luke was honored to welcome Bishop Julius Harrison McAllister, Sr., the 129th Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, who preached a powerful centennial message. He was joined by his wife, Mother Joan McAllister. The celebration also included the presentation of official citations from city, state, and local elected officials, along with a video of congratulations from the Rev. Al Sharpton.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy Still in Motion
As Saint Luke enters its next century, the church remains committed to its centennial theme:
“Rooted in Love, Growing in Faith, Serving all Generations.”Its next phase of ministry includes expanding pantry and food security programs, youth development, public health education, elder support, and enhanced civic partnerships throughout Harlem and beyond.
About Saint Luke AME Church
Founded in 1925 during the Harlem Renaissance, Saint Luke AME Church has served as a spiritual anchor and community institution for 100 years, shaping generations through worship, education, social justice, and service. The church is part of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the oldest Black-founded denomination in the United States.
