As we reflect this month, it is imperative to understand that Black history is American history. The many tragedies and triumphs of our ancestry is interwoven into the fabric of the American story and is worthy of being studied and celebrated.  A constant variable in the Black history story is the strength gleaned from within the Black church.  The Black church was and always will be a firm foundational source of strength for enslaved people and hope for a strong future.  We are fortunate to worship in the freedom our ancestors fought so hard for. We stand on the shoulders of those who fought against brutal oppressions and racial evils in the South. Unfortunately, we continue to have struggles in the land that compel racial brokenness within the body of Christ.

Let us be encouraged by our past and celebrate our trust in God through faith and worship in the church. We have a legacy of strength and a future full of hope.  We must embrace the truths of our past, learn from our rich history and the contributions made by our ancestors. Let this month serve as an opportunity to increase our efforts to tear down the walls that may divide us.  May we embrace sacred times to worship the God who has been our deliverer and lover of our souls and seek to embrace each other’s presence as an expression of gratitude for our life together.

The Year to Grow in Him!  Let’s get growing.   #GoFoward.