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Ossining's Historic First Baptist Church Mourns Long-Time Pastor

OSSINING, N.Y. – Members of Ossining’s Historic First Baptist Church were saddened to learn Friday of the death of Pastor Emeritus Rev. Dr. Gordon Anderson. Anderson, 93, came to the church in 1998 and retired in July 2011. He had been active in the ministry for 70 years.

Rev. Gordon Anderson, who began served at Historic First Baptist Church in Ossining from 1998 to 2011, died Thursday. He was 93.

Rev. Gordon Anderson, who began served at Historic First Baptist Church in Ossining from 1998 to 2011, died Thursday. He was 93.

Photo Credit: Daily Voice photo

“He was marvelous,’’ said church member Virginia Jahoda. “Words can’t explain how I feel about him. He was a gracious, informative person. He had a great passion for telling people how good they are.”

Anderson was born in Concord, Mass. He attended Stony Brook School on Long Island, Houghton College in New York and the National Bible Seminary. He served as Pastor of several churches in New York and Michigan. Anderson and his late brother, Jim, established Youth Jubilee Ministries in Brooklyn and launched a weekly television show, “Life’s Lighthouse,” that aired in New York City.

“Unity was one thing that he brought to our church,’’ said another member, Kadoza Worthy. “And a friendly atmosphere. It was a lot more friendly than what we had before. He created a real fellowship within the church.”

Jahoda said Anderson started as an interim pastor, but it was clear he was the congregation’s choice when it came time to remove the interim label. “Even though he was up in years, the majority of the people voted for him,’’ she said. “We felt we knew him when it became official. We have nothing but happy memories. He was a fantastic person.”

First Historic Baptist Church began in the late 18th century and is the second-oldest religious congregation in Ossining. 

Rev. Anderson is survived by his wife, Carol; daughter Marie McCarthy (Robert) of Canada; son, Dr. Gordon Anderson Jr. of St. Cloud, Fla., and three grandchildren. Check back later on The Ossining Daily Voice for Rev. Anderson’s complete obituary.

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