In observance of Black History Month, Philadelphia Register of Wills John P. Sabatina, Esq., in partnership with City Councilmember Nicolas O’Rourke will host a special community education program titled, “A Will to Preserve Black Legacy,” on Tuesday, Feb. 24, at 6:30 p.m. at the historic Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, 419 S. 9th St., Philadelphia, PA.
- “A Will to Preserve Black Legacy”
- When: Tuesday, Feb. 24, 6:30 p.m.
- Where: Mother Bethel AME Church, 419 S. 9th St.
The event will unite public officials, civic leaders, and faith leaders in a context of Black history to explore the importance of wills and estate planning as tools for preserving family legacy, generational wealth, and community stability.
Presentations will be delivered by:
- City Councilmember Nicolas O’Rourke
- Pastor Carolyn Cavaness, Mother Bethel AME Church
- Register of Wills John P. Sabatina, Esq.
Hosted at Mother Bethel AME Church — the oldest continuously operating African American church in the nation — the program will highlight the church’s profound role in Black history, self-determination, and legacy preservation. Through historical reflection and practical education, attendees will learn how intentional planning has helped sustain Black families and institutions for generations.
The Register of Wills office will provide educational resources and information to help community members better understand wills, probate, and estate administration. Attendees will also be able to connect directly with representatives from the Register of Wills office and receive guidance on next steps for beginning or updating a will.
Informational materials and resources from Councilmember O’Rourke and Mother Bethel will be available as well as a tour of the Mother Bethel Museum.
“This program is about honoring the past while equipping families for the future,” Register of Wills Sabatina said. “Preserving one’s legacy is not only a legal responsibility, it is an act of empowerment and love.”
The event is free and open to the public. It is educational in nature and will not include legal advice or the drafting of individual wills.
For more information about this event, contact Pastor Bill Thompson at 267-439-9166. For information about Register of Wills services, contact 215-686-6250 or visit www.phila.gov/wills.