Fulton DA Fani Willis to Speak at Atlanta’s Oldest Black Church on Sunday (Atlanta, Georgia)

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis is set to deliver a guest sermon at Big Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Atlanta on Sunday. The historic church, located in the city’s Sweet Auburn neighborhood, is one of the oldest Black congregations in the United States. Willis’s appearance coincides with the church’s annual observance of the legacy of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.

Big Bethel AME was founded in 1847 by a group of enslaved African Americans who were barred from worshipping with white parishioners at Union Church. After the Civil War, the congregation affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal denomination and moved to Auburn Avenue, a historically significant corridor for Black life in Atlanta.

The church has long been a cornerstone of the community, serving as both a spiritual and social hub. Its history reflects the resilience and faith of Black Americans in the face of systemic oppression. The congregation continues to play a vital role in local ministry, outreach, and advocacy, particularly in matters of justice and civil rights.

Willis’s visit comes as she continues her role in the Fulton County District Attorney’s office, where she has been at the center of high-profile legal cases, including the trial of former police officer Derek Chauvin. Her appearance at Big Bethel AME underscores the intersection of public service and faith, as she engages with a community deeply rooted in the traditions of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

The church’s annual celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day includes a focus on themes of justice, equality, and moral leadership. This event provides an opportunity for congregants and guests to reflect on the ongoing struggle for civil rights and the importance of community solidarity.

Big Bethel AME’s history is intertwined with the broader narrative of Black religious and civic life in America. As a founding member of the National Baptist Convention, the church has contributed to the development of Black church leadership and the promotion of social justice initiatives across the nation.

The visit by Willis highlights the continued relevance of faith-based institutions in shaping public discourse and addressing societal challenges. It also reflects the enduring legacy of the civil rights movement, which continues to inspire efforts toward equity and justice in contemporary society.

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