Philadelphia faith leaders reflect on Rev. Jesse Jackson's legacy after his death at 84

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The death of civil rights leader and political figure Jesse Jackson at age 84 prompted an outpouring of reflection from Philadelphia faith leaders who knew him personally. One is even credited with shaping Jackson's ministry and activism.

Rev. James Hall Jr. of Triumph Baptist Church in Tioga-Nicetown said he first met Jackson as a teenager in South Carolina. He baptized Jackson, helping guide the faith and activism that would define Jackson's public life. Hall said Jackson spoke at Triumph's current and former locations about seven times over the years.

"I think he's one of the great speakers of our time," Hall said.

Hall recalled knowing Jackson's mother and first meeting Jackson when he was a teenager playing high school football. He said in those later teen years, Jackson developed his passion for activism. Hall said Jackson's commitment to justice never wavered.

"He was consistent in his beliefs, and he didn't compromise," he said.

Rev. William B. Moore of Tenth Memorial Baptist Church in North Philadelphia said he went from being inspired by Jackson's lunch counter sit-ins to working with him on Operation PUSH in the city, witnessing how Jackson energized communities.

"He was very approachable," Moore said. "For him, the pulpit was not something that was confined to the four walls of the church. He really took the pulpit out into the world."

Jackson's influence extended into Philadelphia politics as well. Former Councilmember Jannie Blackwell, whose late husband Lucien Blackwell supported Jackson's presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988, said Jackson's visits always brought excitement.

"When you knew he was coming or when he was here, it was absolutely exciting. He was one of those personalities," she said.

Jackson died this morning after having several bouts with illnesses. Hall said he last saw Jackson about two months ago.

"He seemed to be in good spirits, but you could tell that sickness was taking its toll," he said.

Despite their grief, local leaders said Jackson's legacy - from civil rights to economic justice - remains visible in the communities he championed.

"He brought people together of all faiths and all denominations," Moore said.

"He wanted to make this world a better place, and he did everything he could to make that happen," Blackwell said.

Hall said Jackson was especially passionate about economic freedom and equality, and he hopes that commitment will endure as part of Jackson's lasting influence.