Church Apologizes on Website for Refusing Black Wedding | Jackson Free Press | Jackson, MS

Church Apologizes on Website for Refusing Black Wedding

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — A church that wouldn't allow a black couple to get married in its sanctuary has apologized. However, the couple didn't know about it until reporters called.

The First Baptist Church of Crystal Springs posted the apology on its website Sunday, saying it was seeking "forgiveness and reconciliation" with Charles and Te'Andrea Wilson, their family and friends and God.

Charles Wilson said no one from the church had contacted him or his wife with the news and that he considered that an insult.

The Wilsons had planned a marriage at the predominantly white church July 21, but some members objected to the Rev. Stan Weatherford after the couple's rehearsal.

The couple had to move their wedding to a predominantly black church, where Weatherford officiated. The Wilsons decried their treatment, attracting attention.

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