A professor, scholar, editor and exemplary musician, Dr. W. James “Jimmie” Abbington considered sacred music an essential part of the Black church. He believed traditional hymns and spirituals are “theology in song,” not mere accessories to worship.

Recently named the inaugural professor of Black sacred music at Duke University Divinity School, Abbington often performed for esteemed audiences; his keyboard work and conducting were fixtures at church gatherings and music symposia nationwide.

A towering figure whose work greatly influenced the litany of the Black church, Abbington died Sept. 27 in Georgia. He was 65.

‘A joyful presence’

Rev. Cynthia Hale, senior pastor of Ray of Hope Christian Church in Decatur, Georgia, was among the many friends and colleagues who paid tribute to Abbin

See Full Page