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The Pillar of Fire in America: The King Years (1963-65)

Todd Turner

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Pillar of Fire: America in the King Years 1963-65

by Taylor Branch

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	38227 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	796 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

A Group Of People, Mostly African American, Gathered Outside A Church. Some Are Holding Signs That Say 'Pillar Of Fire' And 'Vote For Freedom.' Pillar Of Fire: America In The King Years 1963 65

The Pillar of Fire is an American Pentecostal denomination founded in 1901 by Bishop Alma White. The group has a long history of involvement in social justice issues, including the civil rights movement.

During the King Years (1963-65),the Pillar of Fire was a vocal supporter of Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement. The group's members participated in marches and protests, and they provided financial and logistical support to the movement.

One of the most significant contributions of the Pillar of Fire to the civil rights movement was its work in the area of voter registration. The group's members worked tirelessly to register African Americans to vote, and they played a key role in the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

The Pillar of Fire's commitment to racial integration was also evident in its own practices. The group was one of the first Pentecostal denominations to ordain women and African Americans. And in 1963, the group's General Assembly passed a resolution calling for the desegregation of all Pillar of Fire churches.

The Pillar of Fire's involvement in the civil rights movement was not without its risks. The group's members were often subjected to harassment and intimidation, and some were even arrested. But despite the dangers, the group remained committed to the cause of justice.

The Pillar of Fire's work during the King Years was a powerful example of how religious groups can play a positive role in social change. The group's members were inspired by their faith to stand up for what they believed in, and they made a real difference in the fight for civil rights.

Bishop Alma White

A Portrait Of Bishop Alma White, A Woman With Dark Hair And Eyes And Wearing A White Dress. Pillar Of Fire: America In The King Years 1963 65

Bishop Alma White was the founder and leader of the Pillar of Fire during the King Years. White was a powerful preacher and a tireless advocate for social justice. She was one of the few women to lead a Pentecostal denomination in the early 20th century, and she was a strong supporter of racial integration and women's rights.

White's commitment to social justice was evident in her early life. As a young woman, she worked as a missionary in the slums of Philadelphia. She was also involved in the women's suffrage movement, and she was a strong advocate for the rights of African Americans.

In 1901, White founded the Pillar of Fire. The group quickly grew, and by the 1960s, it had over 100,000 members. White used the Pillar of Fire to promote her message of social justice, and she was a powerful voice in the civil rights movement.

White died in 1970, but her legacy continues to live on. The Pillar of Fire is still a thriving denomination, and it remains committed to the cause of social justice.

The Pillar of Fire Today

A Photo Of A Large Brick Church With A White Steeple. The Church Is Surrounded By A Green Lawn And Trees. Pillar Of Fire: America In The King Years 1963 65

The Pillar of Fire is still a thriving denomination today, with over 200,000 members worldwide. The group is headquartered in Zarephath, New Jersey, and it has churches in all 50 states and over 100 countries.

The Pillar of Fire remains committed to the cause of social justice. The group is involved in a variety of social outreach programs, including homeless shelters, food pantries, and after-school programs. The group also continues to work for racial integration and women's rights.

The Pillar of Fire is a powerful example of how religious groups can play a positive role in social change. The group's members are inspired by their faith to stand up for what they believe in, and they continue to make a real difference in the world.

Pillar of Fire: America in the King Years 1963-65

by Taylor Branch

4.8 out of 5