In Remembrance December 13, 1936-Nov. 29, 2023
With a solemn wave of remembrance and respect, the Detroit community bids farewell to one of its most esteemed leaders, the Rev. Dr. Charles Gilchrist Adams. The revered pastor of Hartford Memorial Baptist Church for more than 50 years, a cornerstone of Detroit’s spiritual and community life, passed away on the evening of Wednesday, November 29, 2023, after a valiant battle and a prolonged struggle with pneumonia, which was further complicated by cardiac arrest. He was 86.
“Every now and then, we are blessed to receive a melody from heaven. Dr. Charles Gilchrist Adams, known to many of us as the “Harvard Hooper,” was indeed a melodious, majestic voice from on high,” proclaimed NAACP President and Pastor of Fellowship Chapel, Rev. Wendell Anthony. “As a minister, I am reminded of the words found in Romans 10:14, ‘How shall they know unless they hear it from a preacher.’ Charles Adams was not just a preacher of the gospel. He was a preacher’s preacher. He was not just an alumnus of Harvard. It was Harvard that was an alumnus of Charles Adams. From the pulpit of the Hartford Memorial Baptist Church to the Mayor’s office, Governor’s mansion, halls of Congress and Senate, to the office of the President of the United States, Charles Adams was a force to be reckoned with. Every politician wanted him on their side. Every adversary was concerned when he was not on their side. But for our community, Charles Adams was always on the side of justice, truth, and equity of opportunity. The hallowed halls of heaven can now add Charles Gilchrist Adams among the ranks of heroes for the hopes of a struggling and yet thriving community.”
His passing leaves a void in our community that will be hard to fill. Rev. Adams was not just a pastor; he was a trailblazer, a voice for the voiceless, and a champion for the underrepresented. His legacy of faith, service, and community empowerment will continue to inspire generations to come. As we bid farewell to this giant of a man, we hold onto the lessons he taught us and the path he paved – one of dignity, justice, and unwavering faith.
Rev. Adams, affectionately known as a “preacher’s preacher,” dedicated his life to uplifting the spirits and lives of those around him. Starting in 1969, he led Hartford Memorial Baptist Church, growing it from a small congregation to a powerful force of nearly 10,000 strong. His leadership was more than numbers; it was about lifting spirits and changing lives in Detroit. Under his direction, the church moved to 18700 James Couzens in the late 1970s, a significant shift that marked its standing as a key institution on Detroit’s northwest side. In 2017, this church was officially recognized as the first for African Americans in this area.
The church under Rev. Adams became a gathering place for all – hosting funerals for renowned singers, educators, activists, and other prominent figures. It became a testament to the philosophy that a life well-lived is a life of service and impact. His leadership extended beyond the church walls, as Hartford Memorial often welcomed politicians and community leaders, serving as a pivotal location for important civic and cultural events.
“Reverend Adams was no ordinary reverend; he was a warrior for justice and a beacon of hope for many, extending beyond his congregation at Hartford Memorial Baptist Church for over 50 years. Rev. Adams has had an impact that stretches far beyond Detroit, touching the lives of countless individuals and leaving an indelible mark in our nation’s history through his community service initiatives and advocacy work,” shared Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield. “I can reflect on the countless sermons that Rev. Adams has preached that have moved me and inspired me. Known as the “Prince of the Pulpit,” Rev. Adams’ preaching brought the heavens down to earth and brought countless souls closer to God! He even extended me the honor of preaching in his pulpit years ago.”
Rev. Adams’ influence reached far beyond Detroit. Known globally as the “Harvard Hooper” for his educational background and his dynamic, powerful preaching style, he captivated audiences worldwide. His eloquence and passion in the pulpit gained the attention of U.S. presidents and international leaders, making him a respected and revered figure in religious and political circles alike.
His passing marks the end of an era for a man who was not only a pastor but a beacon of hope and inspiration for the entire African-American community in Detroit and beyond.
“We’ve had a loss, but it has been a phenomenal and beneficial loss because it reminds people of his outreach,” shared Detroit’s reputably esteemed political and businessman Dennis Archer Sr. “It reminds people of what he was able to influence others to do and to consider doing with their church home, with their community. Rev. Charles Adams was a game changer for those far and near – he made a big difference.”
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Born in Detroit on December 13, 1936, Adams’ journey was one of academic excellence and spiritual depth. Rev. Adams’ educational path was a vivid illustration of his dedication to both personal growth and community empowerment. A true Detroiter, through and through, a product of the Detroit Public Schools system, proudly graduating from the well-regarded Cass Technical High School. His higher education journey began at Fisk University in Nashville, a historically Black college, symbolizing not just his quest for knowledge but also his deep connection to the African-American heritage. This commitment to his roots was further manifested when he transferred to the University of Michigan and then to Harvard Divinity School, graduating with honors from both and going on to receive an honorary doctorate in 1986 from UofM.
Honored by his alma mater, Harvard Divinity School, Interim Dean David Holland shared:
“In addition to his exceptional pastoral care and leadership, Reverend Adams was also a brilliant scholar. He was recognized by HDS as a Gomes Distinguished Alumni Honoree in 2017, and he gave a particularly moving interview as a Gomes recipient, in which he delved into the question of theodicy and demonstrated the depth of his theological reflection. When asked about an inquiry that frequently came up in classes, he taught at HDS—why do people suffer if the world is in the hands of a good God?—the Reverend responded: ‘Kierkegaard, I believe, was right when he said that you just can’t equate divinity with humanity, nor humanity with divinity. I’m not God and neither are you. We just have to take a leap in the dark—and most days it will be very dark. So don’t ask me when the kingdom is coming, just keep on living and working to make it happen….God’s grace has made a way for me to stand in some of the most exciting social transformations that I’ve ever known to occur anywhere. That project will go on. It’s going to be a mighty thing.’ Most assuredly, the projects he began will go on because of the lives he touched and the legacy he leaves.”
His tenure as a doctoral fellow at Union Theological Seminary in New York City only deepened his understanding and prepared him for a pivotal role in the religious community. In 1962, Rev. Adams took the helm of Concord Baptist Church in Boston, one of the oldest Black churches in the city, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in ministry and community service.
Rev. Adams’ efforts transcended the walls of the church, touching lives across the community. His initiatives, ranging from meal deliveries for seniors to an expansive Head Start program serving 1,000 youths, reflected his commitment to practical, compassionate outreach. The establishment of tutoring programs, a bible studies institute, and providing housing to families were testaments to his holistic approach to community development.
“Detroiters have lost a great champion and a great man,” said Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. “Rev. Adams did more than offer words of hope and inspiration from his pulpit, he created opportunity by purchasing and developing land around Hartford, including the Hartford Village senior citizen community. We were fortunate to have him in our city and in our lives and he will be greatly missed.”
Among the most significant of Hartford’s initiatives under Rev. Adams’ leadership was the purchase and revitalization of land on Seven Mile. This venture not only sparked local redevelopment but also saw the establishment of businesses and restaurants, like The Home Depot, creating hundreds of jobs. His visionary collaboration with the Presbyterian Villages of Michigan to launch the Hartford Village senior community further underscored his commitment to serving the needs of all community members.
Rev. Adams’ influence extended far beyond Detroit. He transformed Detroit not only with his words but with his actions. He served as President of the Detroit Branch NAACP and the Progressive National Baptist Convention. As President of the Detroit Branch NAACP in 1984, he led a pivotal boycott against Dearborn businesses, challenging discriminatory policies and achieving a significant legal victory that overturned the exclusionary practices. His commitment to social justice was unwavering, evidenced by his instrumental role in facilitating Nelson Mandela’s visit to Detroit in 1990 and supporting initiatives in South Africa and Gambia.
Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist highlighted Rev. Adams’ wide-reaching impact, “Rev. Charles Gilchrist Adams was a titan of the Christian faith and a legendary leader of the Detroit community. He was a ‘preacher’s preacher,’ a rhetorical force of nature, and a deeply respected ecumenical leader who spoke equally and easily to presidents and everyday people.”
His global impact was further highlighted by his tenure as the President of the Progressive National Baptist Convention. Addressing the United Nations on South African apartheid and accompanying President Bill Clinton for the Jordan-Israel peace treaty signing showcased his far-reaching influence. Meeting with President Barack Obama at the White House was a culmination of a life dedicated to advocacy and justice.
For many years, Rev. Adams was not just a familiar voice from the pulpit but also a contributor for the Michigan Chronicle, sharing his wisdom and engaging with the community through various articles. He was also proudly associated with Omega Psi Phi, a well-respected Black Greek fraternity a part of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, where his involvement was another facet of his commitment to community and brotherhood.
“The word of the Lord says in 2nd Corinthians 5:8, ‘To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.’ Our hearts are heavy with the passing of Brother Dr. Charles G. Adams,” shared Brother Chad Rhodes, President of Detroit’s Nu Omega chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. “Our beloved Brother was a national treasure that influenced people, policy, and communities. Initiated at Nu Omega Chapter in 1984, he donned a robe of Royal Purple and Old Gold. Brother Dr. Adams touched the lives and souls of folk, that extends way beyond the borders of Detroit. An advocate of social justice and youth education, Bro. Dr. Adams created a sanctuary at Hartford Memorial Baptist Church which was the epicenter of community activities, support for HBCU’s and theological enlightenment. His presence and influence will be greatly missed! ‘And when we say our last goodbye, we’ll love Omega Psi Phi.’ The Men of Nu Omega Chapter of Detroit, Michigan extend our heartfelt condolence to the family of this iconic leader and Omega Man!”
Named by Ebony magazine as one of the nation’s greatest Black preachers and most influential African Americans, Rev. Adams’ legacy is not confined to Detroit. His words and actions resonated globally, marking him as a figure of immense stature and influence in the fight for equality and justice. His passing leaves behind a legacy that stretches from the streets of Detroit to the global stage, inspiring generations to continue the fight for a better, more just world.
Despite his numerous accolades, Rev. Adams’ sense of gratitude was as immense as the considerable praises he received throughout his life. Most notably, while at Rosa Parks’s funeral held at Greater Grace Temple in Detroit on November 2, 2005, Rev. Adams delivered a memorable sermon, eloquently expressing gratitude in various languages. He famously declared, “If I had 10,000 tongues, I’d say thank ya,” illustrating his boundless thankfulness to God. This powerful message infused every attendee with an invigorating spirit, filling the sanctuary with joy and appreciation. Little did he know, as he departed from his earthly home, that 10,000 tongues were to echo the same heartfelt ‘thank you’ back to him.
“A leader in the community and in ministry, Rev. Adam’s desire to revitalize, teach, preach and guide his community will be felt for years to come,” shared County Executive Warren Evans. “His influence extends beyond today and reaches to the very core of our neighborhoods. May his legacy be carried on through his family and loved ones. My thoughts and prayers are with Rev. Adams’ wife, children, family and all who love him as we together mourn this great loss.”
The call of Rev. Charles Gilchrist Adams will long ring true for those who believe in justice for all people as Rev. Anthony vividly paints a farewell, “The words of Horatio from Shakespeare’s Hamlet seem to cry out to us at this very moment. ‘And now cracks a noble heart. Good night, sweet prince. And flights of angels, sing thee to thy rest.’”
As the city mourns, it celebrates the life of a man who was more than a pastor – he was a visionary, a leader, and, above all, a beloved son of Detroit. Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced, providing an opportunity for the community to pay their respects to a man who was, in many ways, the heart and soul of Detroit. His passing leaves a void not easily filled. His legacy, however, continues through the lives he touched, the community he transformed, and the family he leaves behind – his wife, Agnes Adams, his daughter Tara Washington, M.D., and his son, Rev. Charles C. Adams.
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