Commemoration of the Episcopal Feast Day of The Blessed Absalom Jones
Saturday, February 15, 2025, 10:00 AM
Join us as we celebrate the life and ministry of The Rev. Absalom Jones (1746-1818), the first Black Episcopal priest, ordained in 1802.This annual service, hosted this year by Saint Matthew's in Chandler, welcomes participants and attendees from across Arizona. Together, we will honor this milestone in Episcopal history and recognize the challenges faced by African Americans in the early Church.
Presented by: Union of Black Episcopalians Karl and Virginia Washington Arizona Chapter and The Episcopal Diocese of Arizona
Hosted by: Saint Matthew's Episcopal Church, 901 West Erie Street, Chandler, AZ 85225
About Absalom Jones:
Born into slavery in Delaware in 1746, Absalom Jones taught himself to read, with the New Testament as a key resource. He was freed from slavery in 1784 and went on to serve as a lay minister and deacon to Black congregations. In 1802, at the age of 56, he was ordained as a priest at the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas in the Diocese of Pennsylvania. Rev. Jones was a tireless advocate for the abolition of slavery and remained a leader in his community until his death in 1818.
This commemoration is an important step in addressing the evil of racism and bringing us closer to God.
Reception to Follow
A reception will take place after the service.
Livestream Available
For those unable to attend in person, the service will be livestreamed.