by Marco Cerino. Philadelphia Tribune Staff Writer
Philadelphia police are investigating vandalism at one of the city’s oldest Black churches. Officers were called to Mother Bethel AME Church Monday morning after a front door window and three other stain glass windows were damaged by rocks.
Mother Bethel AME first welcomed worshipers in 1794 and is the oldest congregation in the African Methodist Episcopalian denomination. The current building on the corner of South Sixth and Addison Streets was erected in 1889 and was registered as a National Historic Landmark in 1972.
Police responded to a call Monday morning, noting the damage. Initial reports do not cite any potential links to terrorism or a hate crime. No suspects have been identified at this time. Central Detectives are handling the investigation.
“I’ve seen everything from one end of the spectrum to another,” Rev. Kelly said of his 16 years at Mother Bethel AME. “When it’s politically motivated, the actors want you to know it’s politically motivated. They want you to understand why they did it.”
“We were shocked and saddened when we first heard of this senseless act of vandalism against Mother Bethel, one of Philadelphia’s most sacred historic landmarks,” said Paul Steinke, Executive Director of the Alliance. “We’re glad to provide a vehicle for anyone who wishes to contribute to the church’s recovery to do so safely and easily through our website.”
A spokesperson for Councilmember Mark Squilla, whose First District is home to the congregation, said he “is saddened by this act of vandalism and will work with the Police to locate the responsible party to face appropriate consequences. Places of worship in our City are sacred and deserve to be treated respectfully by all.”
mcerino@phillytrib.com; 215-893-5700