Emanuel AME Welcomes New Pastor

COLUMBIA, SC (AP)– It’s a historic moment for Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina.  For the first time since the church was founded 200 years ago, a woman is now serving as the church’s pastor.

Rev. Dr. Betty Deas Clark was welcomed by church members Sunday.  She’s the first pastor named since Reverend Clementa Pinckney was shot and killed  along with eight other parishioners last June.

Reverend Clark’s first sermon spoke about hope.  She says she is excited for the opportunity and the journey ahead.