Photos and story by Amanda Sciandra
CAPE MAY – The Macedonian Baptist church was filled with impactful voices and lively celebration in honor of Juneteenth. The festivities began at 11 a.m. with a welcoming introduction from Theodore Bryan, a retired African American History Teacher from Middle Township Highschool. A crowd of people dressed in symbolic red, black, and green clothing applauded Bryan, eager for what was to come next.
Following this introduction was a performance by the Macedonia Youth Group, which, judging by reactions from those in attendance, was by far the most moving portion of the event. Together, Nicholas Beamon, Adlihanna Beamon, Peyton Facey, Mila Cruz, Neville Walton, and Ethyn Williams ignited the crowd in song.
From their church pews, the audience clapped to the beat and harmonized with the group. The children of the Macedonia Youth group also gave individual speeches on the history of Juneteenth and gave accounts of the enslaved. This prompted the audience to usher praise upon the group while also acknowledging, and deeply mourning, the harsh realities of the enslaved stories.
Sherry Hazel, Macedonia Baptist Church’s Youth Leader, eagerly thanked all those who came to celebrate Juneteenth while also speaking to the talents of the Macedonia Youth Group.
Hazel said, “the Macedonian Baptist church is one of the last black churches in Cape May City,” and stressed the importance of celebrating this holiday.
Celebrating Juneteenth for over twenty years now, the Macedonian Baptist church continues to serve as a place of prayer and social gathering for the community. This was evident as Sherry brought the church service to a close once again through song with full audience participation. Everyone shuffled around the church, embracing and laughing with their friends and family.
“It was wonderful coming together with the community,” Theodore Bryan said when asked about the event.
After the service, everyone was welcomed into the church’s dining hall for Juneteenth refreshments and conversation. These refreshments consisted of red velvet cupcakes and red punch. It was within this dining hall that Dr. Ralph Hunter, Sr., President and Curator of the African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey, also spoke on the history of African American Churches in Southern New Jersey.
Outside of the church was a selection of fun activities, including a bounce house and a cotton candy machine. There were also a variety of vendors selling Juneteenth shirts and other accessories.
The Macedonia Youth group was particularly fond of the bounce house – they all bounced together after their successful performance within the church. As everyone indulged in one another’s company, it was evident that this was the true spirit of Juneteenth.
“It is mostly about family reunions and celebrating with the people you love the most,” said Adlihanna Beamon, a member of the youth choir.
If you didn’t have a chance to make it to the Macedonian Baptist Church’s celebration this year, you can be sure that the event will return in 2024.
