Abyssinian Baptist Church marks first Sunday without leader Rev. Dr. Calvin Butts
NEW YORK -- The Abssynian Baptist Church in Harlem held its first Sunday service without longtime leader Rev. Dr. Calvin Butts, who was one of the city's most significant religious figures.
As CBS2's Christina Fan reported, hundreds rose from their seats and delivered a standing ovation to the man who touched thousands of lives across generations, leaning on each other as they mourned the loss.
"He was my friend, my mentor, my spiritual leader. He was just everything to me," Suzie Drayton said.
"I say we lost a president. That's what this is like," said Terry Wisdom.
Handwritten notes and flowers piled up outside the church ahead of Sunday's service. Inside, a purple cloak hung over the reverend's chair as worshippers reflected on his impact.
"We thank you for his service, we thank you for his leadership, his unwavering commitment to you. We thank you for his courage standing up to those without a voice," Rev. Raschaad Hoggard said.
Butts was a figurehead in the African American community and a champion of social justice, but he viewed himself foremost as a pastor, guiding his congregation both young and old through the last five decades.
"He always gave these nice sermons and he always made sure to cater to all individuals," said Breanna Henry.
"He actually changed my life. He said three words to me, 'We must talk,' and my whole life changed, because I didn't want to look bad in his eyes. So what went wrong, I cleared it right up," Drayton added.
For Eva Jennings, the reverend not only presided over her wedding, but the love and light he espoused inspired her every day in front of her students.
"It doesn't make sense for me in school to start teaching before creating that beloved community," she said.
A community promising to carry on his legacy.
Church leaders were planning a grand 50th anniversary celebration for the reverend in a few weeks. Those plans are now shifting as they prepare to honor his legacy.
The church announced Sunday his funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, with viewings Thursday and Friday morning.