Amen

The show gets underway with this pilot episode. It doesn't feature any of the physical comedy or gags that 'Amen' is known for, but Sherman Hemsley's lead character is strongly defined as a deacon who seems to blur the line between ethics and greed. There isn't much mention made of his being a lawyer, but he does help a 17 year old member of the congregation negotiate a deal to play basketball for a top-ranked college. Of course, the boy's mother does not agree with Ernie's maneuverings, and she consults with the newly hired minister, Rev. Gregory (played by Clifton Davis). So, immediately, the two men who are running the church are at odds. During the interview in which the new reverend is hired, it is learned that he has impressive credentials and that he was once arrested for demonstrating against racism. The relationship between Reuben and Ernie's daughter, Thelma, is given very little screen time, but they do have their first meeting; and he seems just as taken with her as she does with him. Meanwhile, Jester Hairston is featured as a guest star in his role as Brother Rolly Forbes; and Franklyn Seales is listed as a star in the opening credits as Lorenzo Hollingsworth, the choir director. In the next episode, Hairston is upgraded to become one of the show's stars; and Seales does not appear. However, Seales will continue to play the church's musical director on a recurring basis, mid-way thru the second season. There are two other actors that do not survive the pilot. Maria McDonald is a secretary named Michelle Thomas, and E'lon portrays Winston. Both of those characters are dropped from the rest of the series. The Hetebrink sisters, played by Barbara Montgomery and Roz Ryan, will function as secretaries at the church beginning in the next episode.

The first episode of "Amen" has sat the tone for the rest of the series. Sherman Hemsley plays a mean-spirited deacon who in the opening episode, fired his pastor and hire a new one, played by Clifton Davis. The clash of idea between the two is amazing, and helpful as the series goes on. Anna Maria Houseford as the Decon's long suffering daughter who has the eyes for the Rev. the chemistry between Hemsley and Davis is incredible. what I also like about the series is the uplifting theme song. One of the best theme songs I've ever heard. "Amen" has brough beck memories of when I saw the show for the first time.