Lindsey Graham: “I would like to congratulate Tallahassee's Bethel AME Church on their 150th anniversary. Bethel was founded in 1865 when…”

“I would like to congratulate Tallahassee's Bethel AME Church on their 150th anniversary. Bethel was founded in 1865 when a group of courageous Christians walked out of their segregated church. They were led by the Reverend Robert Meacham, a former slave preacher. Since that day, church membership has grown from 116 people in 1865 to more than 1,700 worshippers today; and under the leadership of my friend and neighbor, Reverend Dr. Julius H. McAllister, Jr., the church continues to benefit our community and serve as an inspiration to everyone in north Florida. I congratulate Bethel AME on a blessed 150 years, and I look forward to personally attending many more services as they continue to grow and thrive. ____________________”