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Absalom Jones
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Absalom Jones was born a slave, but eventually bought freedom for himself and his family. A quiet man, Jones was dedicated to his Christian faith, and became a lay preacher at St. George’s Methodist Episcopalian Church in Philadelphia. With Richard Allen, he formed The Free Society to help African Americans in need. After leaving St. George’s because of racial issues in 1794, Jones founded St. Thomas African Episcopalian church with the permission of the Pennsylvania Bishop. This was the first Episcopalian church for blacks in the United States.
Jones is remembered as intelligent spiritual leader who fought against racism and discrimination. He was admired and respected as a leader and an individual by blacks. He was the first ordained priest in the Episcopal church, and brought many African Americans together to worship God.
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"To arise out of the dust and shake ourselves, and throw off that servile fear, that the habit of oppression and bondage trained us up in. And in meekness and fear, we would desire to walk in the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free." |
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