Absalom Jones was an earnest preacher. He 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 congregation and by the community. St. Thomas Church grew to over 500 members during its first year. The congregants formed a day school and were active in moral uplift, self-empowerment, and anti-slavery activities. 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. Jones died on February 13, 1818.

The Absalom Jones Service has been rescheduled to Sunday, April 7 at 4 p.m. at St. Cyprian’s Church in Roxbury. Bishop Alan M. Gates will preside, and the Rev. James Hairston will preach. Questions may be directed to the Rev. Canon Jean Baptiste Ntagengwa, Canon for Immigration and Multicultural Ministries (jbntagengwa@diomass.org or 617-482-4826, ext. 400).