When the Rev. Carolyn Cavaness stepped into the pulpit as the first female pastor of Mother Bethel African American Methodist Episcopal Church, she marked a historic shift for the 237-year-old institution, one of the United States’ oldest churches. Yet, for Cavaness, making history is just the beginning: “Yes, it’s great to make history, but what’s going to be my contribution?” she asks, embracing her role.
Warm Embrace and Genuine Connection
In her first 100 days, the Rev. Cavaness has already experienced an overwhelming welcome from the congregation. Children run towards her excitedly, as she humorously notes, “I’m like a Black history project for some of these kids.” Her approachable and warm demeanor quickly established a strong, personal connection with her new community.
But the responsibility is not lost on her. Standing before her congregation, she nearly became emotional, reflecting; “I almost started crying…thinking, wow, how did this happen?” Her recognition of the weight of her role resonates deeply.
Faith in Action: Practical Ministry
The Rev. Cavaness brings a history of purposeful action to her new position. Raised in Newark, New Jersey as a fourth-generation preacher, her life has always revolved around active ministry. She vividly recalls her early experiences, noting, “It’s not enough to read the Bible…but how are we living it and manifesting it?”
Her 10-year tenure at Bethel AME Church in Ardmore exemplified this belief, particularly through her impactful community gardening initiative. Despite admitting, “I didn’t grow up gardening,” her dedication turned an unused plot into a thriving garden of healthy edibles, addressing local food insecurity and becoming a national model.
At Mother Bethel, she seeks to replicate such meaningful community work. Beyond sermons, her vision includes practical steps to ensure the church remains relevant in tackling immediate local needs.
Leadership Beyond the Pulpit
The Rev. Cavaness’s unique journey includes significant political campaign experience, notably with Hillary Clinton’s presidential bid in 2008. This experience taught her valuable lessons about community mobilization and grassroots engagement. She says, “Yes, raising money is one thing, but what is the rhetoric? How do you engage grassroots movements?” Her experience confirms her belief that faith communities have a vital role in civic activism and social justice.
Today, she actively supports civic participation initiatives, including voter registration and education, reinforcing the message, she says “Churches have a role in shaping the world around them. It’s not just about preaching, it’s about showing up.”
Authenticity and Relatability
Amid her demanding schedule, the Rev. Cavaness remains refreshingly grounded. She openly shares personal anecdotes, such as learning to drive during the pandemic and enjoying theater and long walks. Her ability to remain accessible makes her not just a leader, but a leader who is responsive to the needs of her congregants.
Reflecting on self-care, she appreciates those who remind her, “Did you breathe today?” recognizing the importance of balance amid her busy role. Rev. Cavaness’s authenticity further deepens her connection with the congregation.
Vision and Stewardship
The Rev. Cavaness’s vision for Mother Bethel involves preserving its storied history while actively creating new legacies. She describes the church as “an international treasure” requiring careful stewardship, particularly through archival work, oral histories, and ongoing educational efforts.
Simultaneously, she emphasizes looking forward, asking how the church can extend its impact beyond its historic walls. Her inclusive vision can empower the next generation, reflecting thoughtfully, “We cannot allow life to stop us in our tracks. Tomorrow is coming whether we like it or not.”
Unifying Philadelphia
Rev. Cavaness brings a straightforward message to Philadelphia: Unity. She observes that while the city is full of vibrant communities, it risks fragmentation. “Philadelphia is a city of communities, but if we’re not careful, we can also be a city of silos,” she warns. She advocates for collaboration, suggesting residents set aside differences for the greater good.
She challenges leaders to measure success by considering how their work impacts society’s most vulnerable members: Are they supported? Are they heard?”
Forward Together
The Rev. Cavaness is deeply aware of her historic responsibility but remains focused on tangible outcomes. As she guides Mother Bethel into this new chapter, she confidently asserts, “We will not go under. There is too much to do.”
Under the Rev. Cavaness’s leadership, Mother Bethel AME Church stands poised to honor its profound heritage and also to serve as a beacon of community engagement, inclusivity, and unwavering commitment to faith that leads to action.
This article is made possible with the support from the following organizations:
Dr. Eric John Nzeribe is the Publisher of FunTimes Magazine and has a demonstrated history of working in the publishing industry since 1992. His interests include using data to understand and solve social issues, narrative stories, digital marketing, community engagement, and online/print journalism features. Dr. Nzeribe is a social media and communication professional with certificates in Digital Media for Social Impact from the University of Pennsylvania, Digital Strategies for Business: Leading the Next-Generation Enterprise from Columbia University, and a Master of Science (MS) in Publication Management from Drexel University and a Doctorate in Business Administration from Temple University.
