Rev. Cecil Williams, Pioneering Pastor of Glide Memorial, Dies at 94

Rev. Cecil Williams transformed Glide Memorial Church into a beacon of social justice and inclusivity, touching lives across the globe.

Rev. Cecil Williams, who led Glide Memorial Church in San Francisco, passed away at 94, leaving behind a legacy of activism and community service.
Under his leadership, the church became a sanctuary for marginalized groups, including the LGBTQ+ community, and hosted influential civil rights events.
Williams was known for his progressive approach, removing crosses from the church to emphasize life over death and promoting a message of unconditional love.
Celebrities and political figures, such as Oprah Winfrey and Bill Clinton, were drawn to his services, underscoring his widespread influence.
His initiatives included extensive community outreach like free meals programs and support for the homeless, impacting hundreds of thousands.