Nashville’s Payne Chapel AME Church joined congregations around the state and nation in observing Black Lives Matter Sunday.

The AME Church under the direction of Senior Bishop John R. Bryant joined with many denominations across the nation for the designated worship theme following the recent national protests of the killing of unarmed African Americans. All parishioners in attendance were asked to wear black. Congregations were asked to conduct a special Altar Call to ask for God’s blessing over the lives of African American men and boys and their families. During the Christmas season, parishioners are also encouraged to support African American businesses.

“We know that God is with us and is in control. We must advocate for true justice and continue to minister to our communities by meeting basic needs, increasing the productivity of communication between youth, their parents and law enforcement as well as training our young children to set and achieve their goals,” said Payne Chapel Senior Pastor Sidney F. Bryant

Currently, Payne Chapel serves the Nashville community through three key initiatives–The Living Breadbox( emergency food relief for area families), ASK-PEP (underprivileged teens joining with parents and law enforcement to promote success academically and socially) and Daniel Payne Christian Childcare (positive socialization and training for children ages 2 to 12).

Payne Chapel is located at 212 Neill Avenue. Fore more information visit paynechapelnashville.com, facebook.com/paynechapelnashville or 615-262-3675.