We are honored to be a diverse group of believers in Jesus Christ. We recognize that the history of racial injustice in the United States—especially the oppression of Black Americans by White Americans—creates significant barriers to coming together as one in worship. We believe that God has given us a unique opportunity as members of this diverse family to rely on God’s grace and to intentionally build relationships that reflect His heart. The Lord loves justice. Therefore, He invites us, by the power of His Spirit, to confront racism in the church, our communities, and our nation through recognition, repentance, and reconciliation.
To respond to this challenge we have assembled a team of Freedom Church leaders to address the impact of racial inequality on our members—especially those who are the descendants of enslaved Black Americans—and to cultivate an environment of true biblical love in our church family. We believe that facilitating difficult discussions across racial groups and developing practical action steps in our church and community will lead to healing and growth.
Our group consists of our Lead Pastor, Gabe Bouch and the other members of our Pastoral Team: Jeremy Moore, Worship and Creative Teams Director and Dave Hess, Campus Director. Joining these full-time staff are the following volunteers.
- Elizabeth Moore. Liz is a dedicated teacher and brings her passion for justice and truth to the issue of racism. She relentlessly advocates for a demonstration of the love of Christ across racial boundaries. Liz is a leader at our Cherry Hill location.
- Jessica Fowler, MD MPH. Is there any group in Freedom Church Jess is not involved in? She serves primarily in our Philadelphia location, but she occasionally hangs out in Cherry Hill as well. Jess brings a wealth of institutional information, leadership, and focus to the group. She is well-informed and masterful at building consensus.
- Elisa Zinn and Paul Zinn. The Zinns are Freedom pioneers and key leaders at our Cherry Hill location. Elisa is a dynamic speaker and a member of the Worship Team. Paul (along with Jess) is one of the stars of our Sunday “Virch” broadcasts, bringing timely exhortations and inspirational challenges week after week. Paul and Elisa have leaned into uncomfortable conversations in both personal and professional spaces to promote the work of racial healing.
- Theresa Noye and Henry J. Noye, Esq. The Noyes are both ministers and long time members of our Philadelphia location. Theresa is the Director of Eastern University’s Office of Multicultural Initiatives. Her invaluable perspective is built on a strong foundation in scholarship and her practical knowledge of best practices regarding racial reconciliation. Henry, an experienced attorney, has well-honed skills in strategic analysis and, like his biblical hero, the apostle Paul, a good helping of zeal.
Revelation 7:9 states: “After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb….”
The heavenly vision is nothing short of a diverse community of people representing every nation, culture, and language. Therefore, we are committed to creating an environment in which we love and worship together in health and harmony to the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. When God’s people come together in unity and faith, all things are possible!