Richard Allen, Absalom Jones and others constructed Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church or A.M.E. Church in Philadelphia, on behalf of Free African Society, in 1787. The location of Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church is at the prestigious Richard Allen Avenue of Philadelphia. To avoid the racial discrimination against African Americans, St. George’s members decided to alter their common aid society into an African American congregation. Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church located in major cities like Philadelphia, Washington, New York, Pittsburgh, Boston, Chicago, Baltimore, Detroit, DC, Cincinnati, and many more.
The word African is included in the name of this church because people with African origin established it. The church belongs to the family of Methodist churches. Methodism applies a system of rules and regulations and follows the simple gospel. The term 'Episcopal' refers to the operating form of government of the church. The mission of Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church is to narrate the history and origin of African Methodist Episcopal Church and the Mother Bethel Church; to examine and recognize African-American leadership and social service through the objectives of the A.M.E. Church and to preserve the Richard Allen Collection.
The administrative structure of the Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church comprises of several bodies. The General Conference is the
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supreme body of the church. The Conference is composed of the Bishops, ministerial and common delegates, Deans of Theological Seminaries, College Presidents and other important posts. Executive Branch of the A.M.E. Church consists of the Council of Bishops and The Board of Incorporators also acts as the Board of Trustees. The General Board is the administrative body made up of General Secretary of the A.M.E and Secretary-Treasurer primarily. The Judicial Council is the highest judicatory authority of this Church.
The Richard Allen Museum at Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church consists of three galleries. Gallery ‘One’ exhibits Mother Bethel's founding details and highlights the lives of Richard and Sarah Allen. The artifacts in this gallery belong to the period between 1800-1840. Gallery ‘Two’ displays the original artifacts from Mother Bethel Church buildings. Gallery Three is devoted to the church missions and its special objectives, emphasizing on women, social issues and education. The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM from Tuesdays to Saturdays. Prior appointment is necessary to enter this museum. Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church is one of the prime attractions of Philadelphia, because of its awesome architecture, the museum and special events. Thousands visitors come to this church to witness the unity of two nations with the noble objective of community welfare.
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