Presbyterian Church Pension Board Collaborates with New River Presbyterian Church to Honor Reverend John Gloucester’s Legacy through Backpack and School Supplies Drive

The Presbyterian Church Pension Board (USA) joined forces with the New River Presbyterian Church to honor the legacy of Reverend John Gloucester, a pioneering figure in the history of African American Presbyterianism. Born into slavery in 1776, Gloucester became the first ordained African American Presbyterian minister in the United States. His ministry in Philadelphia laid the foundation for the First African Presbyterian Church, the nation’s first Black Presbyterian congregation.

Gloucester’s work extended beyond the pulpit. He established a day school for children and launched educational programs for adults, believing deeply in the transformative power of faith and learning. At the same time, he fought for the freedom of his enslaved wife and children, eventually succeeding in securing their liberation in 1810 after years of persistent effort.

The New River Presbyterian Church, formed through the union of three historic congregations in West Philadelphia—including the First African Presbyterian Church—continues to carry forward Gloucester’s legacy. The church is committed to the well-being and development of its community, reflecting the values that guided Gloucester’s life and ministry.

To commemorate the 250th anniversary of Gloucester’s birth, the Pension Board participated in New River’s annual backpack and school supplies collection campaign. Together, the two organizations provided enough materials to fill 330 new backpacks for students preparing for the school year.

Krysten Carter Holloway, president and executive director of the Pension Board, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to support children in the New River community. “It is undoubtedly God’s work,” she said, highlighting the collaborative effort between the Pension Board and the church.

Reverend Dr. Eustacia Moffett Marshall, pastor of New River, emphasized the significance of the event during the blessing of the backpacks. “Thanks to our work, some child or family will know that he has been paid attention, that he has been supported and that he is loved,” she said. “And we can sow seeds of hope and possibilities for the future.”

Moffett Marshall’s words echoed Gloucester’s lifelong dedication to uplifting and empowering the African community in Philadelphia. His legacy, now carried forward by New River and the Pension Board, continues to inspire efforts to support education, justice, and community well-being.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)