Christopher Rush (bishop) facts for kids
Christopher Rush (born 1777 – died 1873) was an important leader, known as a bishop, in the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church.
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The Life of Christopher Rush
Christopher Rush was born in 1777 in Craven County, North Carolina. He was a full-blooded African and was born into slavery. In 1798, he moved to New York, where he later became a free man.
Becoming a Church Leader
Christopher Rush started his journey as a preacher in the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1815. He was officially ordained, meaning he became a minister, in 1822. On May 18, 1828, he was chosen to be a superintendent or bishop. This was a very important leadership role.
Founding a New Church
Bishop Rush played a big part in helping African American members separate from the main Methodist Church. He wanted them to have their own church where they could lead and worship freely. His strong speech to Bishop Enoch George helped make this separation happen. Because of his efforts, he is known as a founder of what became the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church.
When this new church started, it only had about 100 members. But Bishop Rush lived a long life and saw it grow into a large and successful organization.
Christopher Rush's Writings
Christopher Rush also wrote a book about the history of his church. It was called A Short Account of the Rise and Progress of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in America. He published this book in New York in 1843.
