The history of First AME Church in Kansas City, KS, dates back to before the Emancipation Proclamation to 1859, when three families of Methodist and Baptist faith began meeting at the home of Dinah Smith, near 4th and State Ave.

With the influx of families moving from the south after the signing of Emancipation Proclamation, the number of worshipers out grew the ability to worship in local homes and the two Christian denomination decided to go their own directions to expand and build locally.

As they say, the rest is history, but the history of First AME Church is a rich one that has greatly influenced the life and direction of the city’s Black community. It’s that 160-year history that will be celebrated the weekend of April 27 by the members of First AME and the current pastor Rev. Viola W. Jones. They’re inviting the community to join them.

The weekend celebration begins on Sat., April 27, with the 160th Anniversary Celebration Event at the Kansas City Kansas Community College Upper Level Jewell, 7250 State Ave., KCK. The doors open at 6:30 p.m., and a reception and program begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person. The event will feature husband-and-wife duo from Decatur, GA: Rev. Lee May Jr., pastor of Transforming Faith Church, and Robin May, life coach and licensed therapist.

The celebration continues with the church service on Sun., April 28, 10:15 a.m. at First AME, 1111 N. 8th St., KCK. Rev. May will deliver the sermon.

For more information, visit www.famekcks.wix.com/firstamechurch.

First AME is also active on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/firstchurchkc