Christ Church

Its active congregation dates to 1695, and Christ Church has remained a symbol of faith since the birth of America. Prominent patriots have worshiped here including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Betsy Ross. Absalom Jones (1746-1818) was ordained as a deacon here in 1795 and as a priest in 1802, becoming the first African-American priest in the Episcopal Church. He fought against slavery and racial discrimiation and founded St. Thomas African Episcopa Church.