Aretha Franklin and gospel music

Top Faith Community Stories in 2018

  Jan. – AME Church Responds to Trump’s Racist Rhetoric In a scathing rebuke of recent racist comments reportedly stated by President Donald Trump, the AME Church Council of Bishops issued a strong statement signed by Bishop Clement W. Fugh, president; Bishop Vashti M. McKenzie, president of the General Board; Bishop Frank M. Reid III, chair of the Commission on Social Action; and Senior Bishop McKinley Young. “The AME Church has consistently opposed the racist rhetoric and social policies of the Trump Administration. We will continue to speak out and hold the United States government accountable as our faith commands

L.A. Honors Aretha Franklin with Gospel Music Tribute

God’s spirit enveloped the California African American Museum as Los Angeles came out for a gospel music tribute to the legendary Aretha Franklin on Aug. 30. The “Queen of Soul” passed away in Detroit, Michigan on Aug. 16. The two-hour event, organized by L.A. County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas and gospel music broadcaster Quaford Coleman, attracted more than 2,000 people who filled the museum’s interior and overflowed to hundreds outside the facility. In both places, the audience clapped, sang and shouted throughout the joyous celebration. Highlighting the tribute were selected songs from Aretha’s “Amazing Grace” album, which she recorded in 1972