Rev. Jesse Jackson at The Pilgrim Church
We had the profound honour of hosting civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson on two occasions, marking significant moments in both church and community history.
Rev. Jackson’s visits brought a powerful message of hope, servant leadership and generational responsibility, encouraging us to stand boldly for justice and equality.
A historic moment of faith, leadership and justice.
WHO WAS REV. JESSE JACKSON?
Rev. Jesse Jackson was a globally recognised civil rights leader who stood alongside Dr Martin Luther King Jr. and became one of the most influential voices for justice, equality and opportunity in modern history.
Through his work with the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, he championed economic empowerment, voting rights, social justice and global human dignity.
His life was a testimony of faith in action.
Commitment To Leadership
Rev. Jackson visited Pilgrim Church during significant national and community milestones, standing alongside Rev. Canon Christian Weaver and church leadership.
Those gatherings energised the congregation and wider community. His presence reminded us that leadership rooted in faith can shape history.
He spoke with authority, compassion and conviction, leaving many inspired to serve beyond themselves.
Reverend Cannon Christian Weaver on the passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson
“It was truly a standout highlight of my ministerial vocation to host on two occasions Reverend Jesse Jackson at the Pilgrim Church, Nottingham.
Here was a man who stood up for the voiceless, for justice and for truth. He lived a dedicated lifetime fighting for justice, from the days of Dr Martin Luther King Jr. to the election of President Barack Obama.
He was someone who was not afraid to say, ‘we can and we must do better for those who are oppressed.’ He was a man of compassion, insight and a real love for people.
It was inspiring to hear his towering oratory from our pulpit and wonderful to spend time in prayer and fellowship with him.
He has left a remarkable legacy. He ran a good race and kept the faith, and he will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time of bereavement.
We will continue to honour his legacy by keeping hope alive.”
— Rev. Canon C.O. Weaver CBE
National Superintendent, Pilgrim Church
Rev. Jackson’s life continues to inspire our commitment to social action, justice and community empowerment.
His message remains clear:
Faith must move.
Hope must act.
Justice must be pursued.