Absalom Jones
by the Rev. Cynthia P. Brust
The Episcopal Church has set aside February 13 to honor Absalom Jones (Lesser Feasts and Fasts). Born in Delaware as a slave in 1746, Jones bought his and his wife’s freedom. He served as a lay minister at St. George Methodist Episcopal Church for its black membership. Jones was dedicated to personal evangelism, and along with his friend Richard Allen, Their efforts greatly increased black membership at St. George’s. The alarmed vestry decided to segregate blacks into an upstairs gallery, without notifying them. During a Sunday service when ushers attempted to remove them, the blacks indignantly walked out as a body.
In 1787, black Christians organized the Free African Society, the first organized Afro-American society, and Absalom Jones and Richard Allen were elected overseers. In 1792, the Society began to build a church, which was dedicated on July 17th, 1794. In October 1794 it was admitted as St. Thomas African Episcopal Church. Bishop White ordained Jones as deacon in 1795 and as priest on September 21, 1802.
As a preacher, Jones denounced slavery, and warned the oppressors to “clean their hands of slaves.” To him, God was the Father, who always acted on “behalf of the oppressed and distressed.” But it was his constant visiting and mild manner that made him beloved by his own flock and by the community. St. Thomas Church, Philadelphia, grew to over 500 members during its first year. Known as “the Black Bishop of the Episcopal Church,” Jones was an example of persistent faith in God and in the church as God’s instrument.
Prayer for the Day
Set us free, heavenly Father, from every bond of prejudice and fear; that, honoring the steadfast courage of your servant Absalom Jones, we may show forth in our lives the reconciling love and true freedom of the children of God, which you have given us in your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Lessons and Psalm
Isaiah 42:5–9
Psalm 126
John 15:12–15