The Arts in African American Episcopal Churches
Music has always been central to the worship of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Richard Allen, the founder of the denomination, provided a hymnal filled with selections that were popular among his people and that reflected the African-American heritage. Subsequent editions of the hymnal have included a wide variety of material. The visual and performing arts have also become a hallmark of worship in the AME church. Colorful robes and stoles and vibrant liturgical dance have contributed significantly to worship.