St. Paul A.M.E. Church celebrates 145-year anniversary

St. Paul A.M.E. choir members Bonnita Ellis, Gail Thornton, and Alma Tapp chat moments before working their way up the aisle and performing in front of the congregation on Sunday afternoon. St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church recognized its 145th anniversary on Sunday. The church's congregation was joined by members of Fifth Street Christian Church in celebration of St Paul's historical roots, which date back to 1816.   |  Christopher Parks

Congregation member Jamesetta Sardis celebrates the church's 145 years of history in song and prayer on Sunday. The church's congregation was joined by members of Fifth Street Christian Church in celebration of St Paul's historical roots, which date back to 1816.   |  Christopher Parks

Members of the St. Paul A.M.E. Church harmonize during a celebration of the church's 145th anniversary on Sunday. The church's own choir was supplemented by that of Fifth Street Christian Church for the event.   |  Christopher Parks

St. Paul A.M.E. Church's first female pastor Mary L. Hull-Lovett listens as guest speaker the Rev. Jerry Ellison of Fifth Street Christian Church delivers a sermon as part of a 145th anniversary celebration.   |  Christopher Parks