In a ceremony at the September Lake Helen City Commission meeting, Pastor Shirley Carr-Myrick was recognized for her commitment to Mount Olive African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church by Mayor Vernon Burton.

The church is celebrating its 131st anniversary this year. Mount Olive church also owns and maintains the historic Black cemetery, Suber Memorial Gardens, in conjunction with other nearby churches. 

Mount Olive AME Church was established in 1894 under the guidance of Reverend Samuels. The church’s still-standing sanctuary was built in 1918.

Pastor Carr-Myrick’s guidance has been an important factor in maintaining and enhancing the church’s rich heritage, Burton said.