Absalom Jones Commemoration
On Saturday, February 15, 2025, about 100 people of all ages from as far as Tucson and Flagstaff, Arizona, gathered at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Chandler to remember Absalom Jones, the first Black American priest in The Commemoration of the Episcopal Feast Day of the Blessed Absalom Jones.
Bishop Jennifer Reddall presided, and the Rev. Canon Anita Braden preached. The Rev. Monica Whitaker, St. Matthew’s Rector, hosted this celebration in collaboration with the Karl and Virginia Washington Arizona Chapter of the Union of Back Episcopalians (UBE Arizona). Our members Dr. Lisa Oliver, Dr. Stanlie James, and Canon Alex Leonard served as lectors during the service.
Canon Anita Braden preached first about Absalom Jones, tracing his life from his birth into slavery in 1746 to his ordination as the first Black priest in the Episcopal Church in 1802. His journey toward the priesthood was not easy.
St. Matthew’s choir and other musicians assisted in leading the liturgy, and afterward, the congregation joined the recessional, forming a typical second line, complete with jazz band. They followed the processional umbrellas, waved handkerchiefs, and sang When the Saints Go Marching In. Some carried parasols as they exited the church. The band led us to the reception area, where there were opportunities to get to know each other better over lunch. Thanks to St. Matthew’s Daughters of the King, who worked with UBE Arizona Vice President Kathryn Elliott-Hudson in preparing the repast we enjoyed.
Thanks to the Union of Black Episcopalians Karl and Virginia Washington Arizona Chapter, St. Matthew’s, and everyone in the Episcopal Diocese of Arizona for this most meaningful worship service remembering the trailblazing Absalom Jones. It was a privilege to be with many of today’s trailblazers in the Episcopal Church’s expression of the Jesus Movement in Arizona.