Women’s Guild at Payne Memorial AME Church Recognizes 70^th Year

By Rev. Dr. Deborah Peaks Coleman, Contributing Writer

The Women’s Guild of Payne Memorial AME Church in Baltimore, Maryland, marked its 70^th anniversary in 2019, making it the longest-serving auxiliary at the church. The Rev. Dr. A. Qismat Alim, the pastor of Payne Memorial, stated: “The longevity of the Guild’s service is an indication of the necessity of their work for the Kingdom. Throughout the decades, the women in this ministry have literally been the arms, feet, and voice of Jesus Christ as it fulfilled His commitment to love one another and to serve those who are in need.”

The Guild celebrated its milestone anniversary by presenting its Third Annual Biennial Women’s Literary Event: “Women, Words, and Wisdom,” on November 9, 2019, featuring African American women authors. The featured authors included Deborah L. Bernal, M.D.; Stayce Bynum; Lynn Calvin; Gillie Haynes; Terri A. Johnson; and Carla Maxwell Ray. Each author gave remarks and guests had an opportunity to purchase signed copies of their books. Books were also donated for the event by The Elevator Group, an independent publishing company owned by Sheilah D. Vance, Esq., a member of Bethel AME Church in Ardmore, Pennsylvania. Also in commemorating its 70^th anniversary, the Guild members asked the Payne congregation to join them in performing 70 random acts of kindness and service throughout the Baltimore community.

The Women’s Guild at Payne was established in 1949 during the pastorate of the Rev. W.P. Mitchell, who was noted for being the longest-serving pastor of the church (1949-1982). During his first year as pastor, the Women’s Guild was established as an integral auxiliary and supportive ministry. In 1949, the nation was in a rebuilding mode following the aftermath of World War II. Just as America needed major support in improving lives, so did Payne Memorial as it brought together a group of women who were committed to advancing their house of worship. 

Throughout its 70-year history, the Women’s Guild has been instrumental in providing cultural and educational enrichment to the church and community, conducting civic engagement endeavors and providing financial support to the church. The Guild’s history includes travel experiences, art and literary programs, voter registration, and offering ongoing resources. Moving forward into its 71^st year in 2020, the Women’s Guild is gearing up to create awareness about the 2020 U.S. Census and conduct voter registration and voter education activities.