More than 200 people gathered at historic Bethel Baptist Church Saturday for “A Celebration of the Churches: This Is My Story; This Is My Song,” presented by Legacy for Gloucester Citizens in recognition of the 375th anniversary of Gloucester County. With the Rev. Dr. Katrina Brown serving as mistress of ceremonies, the program celebrated Gloucester’s rich history of faith with storytelling and music. Fifteen churches shared their stories, highlighting the important role Black churches and their congregations have played in the history and life of the Gloucester community. The Rev. Vincent Pryor presented a history of the hush arbor, also known as the brush arbor, and its place in the faith experiences of African Americans. Enslaved African Americans used music as a vital, covert system of communication and emotional expression. Music played a major role in the celebration, with songs presented by the Gloucester Mathews Men’s Choir and the Ebenezer Men’s Choir. The afternoon culminated...