PREACHING TO THE HEAVENS AND SERVING ON EARTH

Filmmaker: Angela Allen

11 minutes

Who was one of Trenton’s great orators, activists, religious leaders, and politicians? Reverend S. Howard Woodson's powerful presence and voice filled up every space he entered: Shiloh Baptist Church where he was pastor for 50 years, the State Legislature where he was the first African American New Jersey assemblyman, and countless city community centers and gatherings. This film traces key points in Rev. Woodson's political career, examines his legacy, and explores the complexities of Black political and spiritual leadership during the turbulent 1960s.