The Rossville AME Zion Church held its 57th annual Family and Friends Day, gathering over 100 attendees in a celebration rich in history and community. Established in 1849, the church serves the descendants of the nation's oldest free Black settlement on Staten Island. The day commenced with a service, followed by food, activities, and a heartfelt blessing from Rev. Charles Washington. Attendees cherish this yearly event to reconnect with family and embrace the growth across generations, marking a significant date in their calendars.
This day means continuity for a rich history. There are people who travel from all over... to honor the memories of those who have gone on before us.
Every year, we get to see the growth - the grandchildren, the great-grandchildren. That's the best part.
It's a day that we look forward to every year. We know that it's every first Sunday in June, it's been like that for years.
The church, founded in May 1849...is part of Staten Island's Sandy Ground, which is the nation's oldest free Black settlement.
#family-and-friends-day #rossville-ame-zion-church #staten-island #african-american-history #community-celebration
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