ATLANTA — A historic Atlanta church with deep ties to civil rights and social justice is celebrating a major milestone: 100 years of serving the community.
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Cascade United Methodist Church is marking its centennial this year with a series of events focused on its past, present and future.
The church was founded in 1926 in a storefront with just 20 members. Today, Cascade has about 7,000 members and two locations, making it one of the largest African American Methodist churches in the country.
Throughout its history, the church has been led by prominent pastors, including civil rights leader Rev. Joseph Lowery and Rev. Walter Kimbrough.
Under the leadership of Senior Pastor Dr. Kevin Murriel, church leaders say Cascade’s commitment to social justice remains at the heart of its mission.
“We take that seriously, whether it’s voter engagement, whether it’s community service, whether it’s making sure that we are a voice for those who are on the margins,” Murriel said.
That mission extends beyond the church walls.
Each week, Cascade provides assistance with rent, utilities and housing for seniors, members and college students.
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The church is also using social media to reach people beyond its campuses, calling the effort “digital evangelism.”
“We use social media to do that, whether it’s YouTube, Instagram, Facebook or TikTok,” Murriel said. “And the cool thing is, it’s intergenerational.”
Church leaders say the event reflects the same mission Cascade has carried for the past century: meeting people where they are and giving back to the community.
Murriel says the centennial isn’t just a chance to look back.
The church’s theme for the year is “The Movement Continues,” a message he says reflects Cascade’s focus on what’s ahead.
“We don’t just stop to celebrate, but we stop, we pray and we look ahead because there is more to come,” Murriel said.
As part of its centennial celebration, Cascade will host the One Cascade Centennial Community Fair on Saturday, Sept. 19.
The free event will offer health screenings, workshops, clothing, shoes, fresh produce and a children’s bookstore.
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