Our Church Speaks Episode 7 - Absalom Jones, First African American Priest
Sep 30, 2024
A conversation about Absalom Jones and his role in Revolutionary-era America. They explore his path from slavery to ministry and partnership with Richard Allen. The hosts trace the Free African Society’s courage during the yellow fever crisis and the founding of St. Thomas. They examine freedom’s purpose through an Exodus-shaped theology and the Black church’s memory of liberation.
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Walkout From Integrated Worship
- Absalom Jones and Richard Allen served as lay ministers at an integrated St. George's Methodist Church in Philadelphia.
- After an usher tried to force Jones to move to the balcony during prayer, he led Black congregants in a walkout and left the church they had served.
Serving Neighbors During Yellow Fever
- During Philadelphia's yellow fever epidemic, the Free African Society stayed in the city to serve the sick.
- Absalom Jones, Richard Allen, and others ministered to neighbors who had earlier pushed segregation in church.
Liberty Defined As Spiritual Freedom
- Jones founded the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas with a mission emphasizing spiritual liberty over political status.
- He taught true liberty is casting off servile fear and instead walking in the liberty Christ gives, marked by meekness and fear of the Lord.
