Greetings in the name of our lord and savior, Jesus Christ!

Between now and Dec. 20, 2009, we need $8,898 to complete payment for structural repairs being done to restore our over 100-year-old sanctuary to its safe and proper status.

Founded in 1837, with the current building built in 1892 by freed slaves, the Metropolitan A.M.E. church still serves the Cumberland community as an active family church, loving, serving and building the family of God.

On April 29, 2009, however, emergency shoring-up work had to be completed as a result of the discovery that one of the original rear header beams and the brick masonry wall by it were collapsing. The bricks located on the front of the church were also affected. Working in conjunction with the Maryland Historical Preservation Office, a three-phased repair project, costing a total of $67,348.25, was begun and is nearing completion in restoring our building, which is on the National Register of Historical Places.

In addition to this need, this past Sunday, Nov. 15, our church chair lift used to transport the elderly up stairs to service, stopped functioning and will cost $1,400 to repair.

We prayerfully solicit any financial support and donations from “Friends of Metropolitan” in helping to repair and restore our sanctuary. Donations of any amount may be addressed to Metropolitan AME Church, 309 Frederick St., Cumberland, MD 21502.

We pray God’s richest blessings on all for being a “Friend of Metropolitan,” invite you to visit us for services on any Sunday at 11 a.m., and thank you in advance for your tax-deductible support in this endeavor.

Your servant in Christ,

Rev. Alfred Deas Jr.

Pastor