Community Leaders Joins Family, Friends and Parishioners in Celebrating Retirement of Pastor of Annapolis' Asbury Church

Last weekend, members of the historic Asbury Church on West Street in Annapolis were joined by friends, families and community leaders in a joyous celebration honoring the remarkable legacy of Pastor Carletta Allen. 

Hundreds of celebrants came from near and far to pay tribute to Dr. Allen after her 13 years of selfless service as pastor. In a statement, Anne County Police Chief Amal Awad said Pastor Allen has lovingly dedicated 29 years of her life to ministry throughout the state of Maryland, including her invaluable role as one of the department's cherished police chaplains. "We will deeply miss her inspiring leadership, guidance and warm smile. We wish her all the best as she embarks on this exciting new chapter of her journey," Chief Awad said.  

Dr. Allen's successor, Rev. Dr. Michael Parker is slated to take over in July, becoming the 34th Pastor of Asbury. 

"In a few weeks, I will bid farewell to Journey United Methodist Church, the church I’ve loved deeply and that has loved me back just as much for the past seven years. I remain excited about the great future that’s ahead.," Dr. Parker said in statement posted on social media. "I look forward with gratitude and excitement to be joining the work that’s being done at Asbury United Methodist Church. I consider it an honor to be succeeding Pastor Carletta Allen, who is a trailblazer!." 

According to the church website, The Asbury United Methodist Church traces its roots to 1803. Prior to 1838, Methodist Episcopals, both white and 'colored', worshipped together. However, due to mounting racial tensions, separate facilities were sought, leading to the construction of the current brick church building in 1888.