Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-10-2024
Abstract
Today we pause to celebrate one of the most recently acquired federal holidays; yet, it has been in the making for 156 years. What created the first Watch Night Service was the same event that declared all African Americans free from bondage. That service was held on Dec. 31, 1862, just a few hours before midnight.
The purpose of this initial Watch Night Service was to pray, sing and fellowship, as people who were in bondage for so many years would gain their freedom on Jan. 1, 1863, by way of the Emancipation Proclamation. Today, there are African American congregations that still celebrate this tradition, and with fervor and thanksgiving.
Recommended Citation
Shepherd, Lewis, "Celebrating Juneteenth" (2024). Press Releases. 1390.
https://scholarlycommons.obu.edu/press_releases/1390
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