National Lighthouse Day Saturday Aug. 8
CHURCH OFFICIALS GATHER TO ACCEPt THE KEYS to KADESH
KADESH CHURCH HAS RISEN
The long journey to restore the Kadesh Church that began years ago by a small group of Edenton preservationists/investors is nearing completion. Those who came together to form the Kadesh Restoration Committee along with the Kadesh Congregation and have worked effortlessly over the past 20 plus years will soon see those efforts come to fruition. . The official handing of the keys ceremony honoring the work of all those involved in preserving and polishing the town treasure is being planned and will be held sometime in May.
After 23 Years of Struggle
A SACRED PROMISE FULFILLED at KADESH A.M.E. ZION CHURCH
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.”
The Original Roof Raisers
Colony Tire Corporation
Edenton Woman’s Club
Regulator Marine
Sotheby’s—Ann Perry
Mary Scott Haigler
Town of Edenton
Corey Gooden
Anonymous
Sherrod Banks
Kaye Barker
Grace and Chris Bean
Liz and Matt Brentjens
Lyn Castellani
Phyllis and Marshall Clements
Roger Coleman
Rev. Haywood Dillahunt
Mary Drew
Gray and Sambo Dixon
Barb and Alston Gardner
Pat and Wilson Greene
Elizabeth Johnstone-
Sally Francis and Alex Kehayes
Joan and Owen Maxwell
Danita Parker
Marie and Chris Perry
Gail and Bob Rolleri
Susan Rothchild
Mary Jo and Larry Sellers
Judy Sharpe
Ben Speller
Peggy Anne and Roland Vaughan
Mitchell Historic Preservation-
Sacred Places John Hildreth
NC Humanities
State of North Carolina—Representative Ed Goodwin
David Cooper
Anne Rowe
Larry Gordon
Anne Rouse Edwards
Edenton Home Boys
Gloria Wadsworth
Tim Phelps
Marge Barnes
Rosa White
Margaret Werzila
Paul Richmond
RA McLean & Associates
Anne Ellis
KADESH HOSTS 12 th ANNIVERSARY OF EDENTON DISTRICT CHOIR
ONE VOICE...ONE FAITH...ONE PURPOSE...
The Kadesh Church came alive last Sunday as the rafters, the floors, the moldings and the Stained Glass Windows sustained a contained force of voices that could have driven any hurricane away in a testament to the power of prayer, song and community.
There may not have been a better way to unofficially welcome the recent preservation efforts than with a rafter raising event that would have made Hannibal Badham and his sons proud.
For twelve years, voices of the Edenton District Choirs Plus have come together with a single purpose—to glorify God through music.
From the time Sadie Riddick led the choir procession to the first row of pews those gathered realized the day was going to be special. Kadesh AME Zion Church played host to hundreds listening as the Edenton District Choir Plus celebrated its 12th Anniversary, marking more than a decade of ministry that has united congregations, strengthened friendships, and inspired communities throughout the Albemarle Conference.
The anniversary celebration was much more than a concert. It was a testimony.
As robed choir members proceded into the sanctuary, the atmosphere quickly shifted from anticipation to worship.
The program's theme could be summarized in the words printed across the anniversary booklet:
"One Voice. One Faith. One Purpose."
Those six words have become the foundation of the choir's identity.
A Ministry That Crosses Church Walls
Unlike many church choirs that serve a single congregation, the Edenton District Choir Plus represents multiple AME Zion churches throughout the district.
Over the past twelve years, singers, musicians, pastors and supporters have faithfully gathered to rehearse, worship and minister together. The choir has become an example of churches working together while celebrating their individual congregations.
The afternoon's Order of Service reflected that spirit of unity.
The celebration opened with a Call to Worship and Invocation led by Rev. Haywood Dillahunt, pastor of Kadesh AME Zion Church, the host congregation.
Throughout the service, pastors from churches across the district shared Scripture, prayer and words of encouragement.
Among those participating included Rev. Pastor Thelma O'Neal, Rev. Pastor Monique Gaddy, Mary Holley Grove AME Zion Church and Center Chapel AME Zion Church. Rev. Pastor Margaret Dance of Whiteville Grove AME Zion Church read scripture and Rev. Pastor Iasia Collier, St. Paul AME Zion Church, along with Presiding Elder of the Edenton District Fondella A. Leigh.Sister April Valentine welcomed the guests.
Each participant helped weave together a service that was both organized and deeply personal.
Music That Speaks to the Heart
Music, of course, remained the centerpiece.Selections by the Edenton District Choir Plus showcased not only vocal excellence but genuine passion. Every song carried the unmistakable energy found in traditional church worship—powerful harmonies, heartfelt solos and congregational participation that often transformed listeners into participants. Hands were raised.Voices joined in. Smiles appeared across the sanctuary.
The music was never confined to the choir loft.
It flowed throughout the sanctuary.
Guest musical groups added another layer of celebration.
The afternoon featured performances from the United Women of Praise, the Southern Jubilaires of Elizabeth City and the United Men of Praise.
Together, they created a experience that celebrated both tradition and community.
During the program, attendees also heard a presentation on the history of the choir from Sister April Valentine, reminding newer members of the ministry's beginnings and recognizing those whose vision helped establish the organization more than a decade ago.
Offerings, presentations, acknowledgements and moments of silent reflection provided opportunities to remember those who have contributed to the choir's success over the years.
One particularly touching portion of the printed program acknowledged the countless volunteers, pastors, musicians and supporters.
The written message expressed gratitude to everyone who has prayed, attended, sponsored or encouraged the choir throughout its twelve-year journey.
Leadership That Continues to Serve
Behind every successful organization are individuals willing to serve.
The anniversary program recognized the officers who continue to guide the choir's ministry:President Sadie Riddick, Vice President Marilene Dobie,First Vice President David Parker, Second Vice President Julius Walker, Recording Secretary Alice Hines, Financial Secretary Keisha Dobie, Treasurer Vanessa Jackson, Public Relations Gwen Brown.
The ministry also recognized the talented musicians whose accompaniment has become part of the choir's signature sound, Steve Fleming, Pianist, Michael White , Drummer, William Rountree, Guitarist and Darryl Ross, Bass GuitaristAt the center of it all remains Rev. Shirley Leigh, founder and organizer of the Edenton District Choir Plus. Her vision twelve years ago has grown into a ministry that continues to impact churches throughout the region.
Faith That Endures
Church anniversaries often celebrate milestones measured in years. This celebration measured something far more meaningful.Relationships.Friendships formed during rehearsals.Pastors encouraging one another.Churches supporting neighboring congregations.Communities coming together despite different locations and backgrounds.
The Edenton District Choir Plus has become a reminder that worship has the unique ability to unite people in ways few other experiences can.For many in attendance, Sunday represented another chapter in a continuing story.For younger singers, it demonstrated the importance of carrying forward traditions of sacred music that have inspired generations.For longtime members, it offered an opportunity to reflect on twelve years of faithful service while looking toward the future.
Looking Ahead
As the closing songs filled the sanctuary and worshippers slowly made their way into the fellowship hall, conversations centered on memories, shared experiences and hopes for the years ahead.
If the afternoon proved anything, it was that the Edenton District Choir Plus has become far more than an annual gathering. It has become a family.
Its ministry continues to remind the community that music remains one of God's most powerful gifts—capable of comforting, encouraging, teaching and bringing people together across generations.
After twelve years, the mission remains unchanged. One voice. One faith. One purpose. And judging by Sunday's celebration, that song is far from over.
MORE KADESH HISTORY
OVER THE PAST YEAR THE SOCIAL LIGHT HAS BEEN COVERING THE EVENTS LEADING TO THE RE-OPENING OF THE FAMED CHURCH. FOR MORE ON THE PRESERVATION INITIAITVE GO TO THE FEATURED KADESH PAGE