CURRENTS

On a spring afternoon steeped in history, faith, and long-awaited joy, the doors of Kadesh African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church opened not just to a congregation—but to the fulfillment of a promise more than two decades in the making.

On Sunday, April 26, 2026, members of the Edenton community and visitors from across the region gathered at the historic church at 117 East Gale Street for a moment many feared might never come—the official consecration and dedication of the restored sanctuary and parsonage.

Led by The Rev. Haywood Dillahunt, Pastor, alongside The Rev. Fondella A. Leigh, Presiding Elder, and The Rt. Rev. W. Darin Moore, Presiding Bishop, the service marked not only a religious milestone, but a powerful testament to perseverance, faith, and community resolve.

For 23 years, the vision of restoring Kadesh A.M.E. Zion Church stood as both a challenge and a calling. Generations carried the weight of that mission—through setbacks, delays, and uncertainty—never relinquishing the belief that one day, the church would be made whole again.

That day arrived with emotion that filled every pew.

Tears flowed freely as the congregation stood in reverence, witnessing the culmination of years of prayer, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. What once was an aspiration had become reality—a sacred space restored, rededicated, and ready to serve generations to come.

Former judge Christopher Bean, addressing the congregation, reflected on both the long road to restoration and the deep personal connection many in the room shared with the church.

“This is the day that several years ago, we thought we might never see,” Bean said.

He recalled first entering the church decades ago. “I can remember 40-some years ago, when I was a young man, first coming into this church and being overwhelmed by the beauty and the spirit.”

But that memory was later replaced by devastation.

“I remember coming in after the destruction,” he said. “And thinking, how can this ever come back?”

What followed, he explained, was not the work of one person, but the steady determination of an entire community.

“Neither the congregation nor the historical commission had the resources to accomplish all that had to be done,” Bean said. “We really needed a miracle And later that happened, through the wonderful efforts of Rep. Ed Goodman. He is here with us today, and through his efforts and the State of North Carolina, we stand here in this magnificent building today, largely through your efforts.”

That miracle came in many forms—through state support, preservation efforts, and the relentless work of individuals who refused to let the church be lost. Bean pointed to early guidance from preservation partners, including efforts connected to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and the work of consultants who helped shape a path forward—even continuing after funding had run dry.

At the center of it all, however, was the community itself.

“There were chicken fries, and there was a box in the back of the church,” Bean said. “Everybody contributing whatever they could to save this building.”

Those grassroots efforts helped raise nearly $400,000—an extraordinary achievement built on faith, generosity, and shared purpose.

Bean made a point to recognize those whose contributions helped carry the project forward, many of whom, he noted, had not always been publicly acknowledged. Among them were Ed Goodwin, whose efforts helped secure critical support; Sambo Dixon, who helped connect the project to preservation resources; and David Cooper, a consultant who continued his work even after funding was exhausted.

He also acknowledged the tireless work of community members and church supporters, who labored behind the scenes to keep the effort alive.

In addition, Bean recognized a number of individuals and families whose generosity played a vital role in making the restoration possible.

“I think they should be recognized and remembered today as we stand in this building,” Bean said. 

From the earliest days of the effort, he added, there was something deeper at work.

“There was a real coming together of this community and of this church,” he said. “And a real sense of pride and hope.”

Looking out over the restored sanctuary, filled with supporters and believers, Bean called the moment one of the most significant in local memory.

“To stand today in this beautifully restored building, surrounded by people of such goodwill… this may be one of the proudest moments in the history of the Edenton Historical Commission,” he said. “And one of the proudest moments in the history of Edenton.”

He closed with a reflection rooted in scripture.

“St. Paul wrote in his first letter to the Corinthians of faith, hope, and love,” Bean said. “Our being here today is a testament to what has been accomplished through faith, hope, and love.”