“The Sound of Latin Jazz Legacy.” -Experience worship elevated through a powerful word and the fire and spirit of Latin jazz!

Family, friends, and community — this Sunday we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a special edition of Jesus & Jazz, our fourth‑Sunday worship‑arts experience that blends scripture, culture, and world‑class musicianship.

Pete Rodríguez

We are honored to welcome internationally acclaimed trumpeter Pete Rodriguez, a commanding force in modern Latin jazz whose artistry carries the fire, heritage, and rhythmic soul of Afro‑Caribbean music. Rodriguez’s sound — bold, spiritual, and unmistakably Latin — transforms the sanctuary into a space where worship and culture meet in powerful harmony.

His lineage runs deep: the son of a boogaloo pioneer, Rodriguez stands at the crossroads of tradition and innovation. His recordings (El Conquistador, Obligacion) and collaborations with legends like Eddie Palmieri and Conrad Herwig showcase a musician whose work celebrates identity, resilience, and the unifying power of jazz.

This Sunday, his voice becomes part of our collective celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month — honoring the histories, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latin American communities.

While pursuing his musical career, Rodríguez has also always made time for prioritizing education. He holds his bachelor and master of music degrees in jazz from Rutgers University. He obtained his doctorate of musical arts from the University of Texas at Austin in 2007.

Location

Mt. Zion AME Millburn is a vibrant worship‑arts church grounded in praise and purpose. A home for creative ministry, cultural celebration, and spiritual growth.

About Jesus & Jazz Leadership

Jesus & Jazz is led by a dynamic ministry and production team committed to excellence in worship, culture, and community uplift.

Rev. Eyesha Marable, Worship & Arts Pastor, shapes the spiritual and artistic vision of the series. Her leadership ensures that every Jesus & Jazz service blends scripture, reflection, and world‑class musicianship in a way that honors Black sacred traditions while embracing the diverse cultural expressions that define our congregation.

Phil Bingham, pianist, arranger, and musical director, provides the sonic foundation of Jesus & Jazz. His signature blend of gospel, jazz, and improvisational artistry provides an unmistakable sound — spiritually grounded, culturally rich, and musically elite.

Gregory Burrus, producer and curator, brings nationwide wide artist expertise and deep artist relationships to the ministry. Producing over 300 cultural events annually, Burrus elevates Jesus & Jazz with top‑tier talent, polished presentation, and a commitment to community‑centered programming.

Together, this leadership team transforms Jesus & Jazz into a worship experience where faith, culture, and artistry meet in perfect harmony.