St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church in Lake Charles on Sunday celebrated its 121-year anniversary with a service commemorating its past and looking forward to its future.

The church has a long history in the city, being founded in 1893 and chartered in 1910. It was located on the corner of Bank and Beldon streets in Lake Charles. In 1918, the sanctuary was destroyed by a storm and rebuilt at the same location in 1920. In 1955, the church was relocated during the construction of Interstate 10. St. Paul was erected at 1104 Jackson Street, where it still stands today.

In 2012, Rev. Kecia Lewis was appointed to lead the church.

“It’s truly a blessing to know that God has blessed this congregation for 121 years here in the Lake Charles community,” Lewis said. “Right now it seems as though we are experiencing a rebirth here at St. Paul’s.”

She said St. Paul’s is committed to serving the community of North Lake Charles with more outreach plans in the coming weeks.

“We move forward ready to serve the present age,” said church member Alvin Rideaux.

Pastor of Mount Olive Baptist Church Rev. Braylon Harris served as the guest pastor for the service.

“I bet there are some members who have come and gone but great is thy faithfulness,” Harris told the congregation. “There is a generation coming up that loves the Lord. When you think about 121 years, you know God is worthy. The same grace that got us this far can bring us home.”(MGNonline)