Greetings Siblings of Christ,
Black History Month is an annual observance in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom of achievements made by black Americans and their central role in U.S. and world history. The commemoration has grown from being just a weekly observance called “Negro History Week,” which was shaped by Harvard-trained historian Carter G. Woods and other prominent African-Americans at a time of civil turmoil in America to a monthly observance every February.
The origins of Black History Month began in 1915, 50 years after the 13th Amendment abolished slavery in the United States and six years after the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
Each February, our nation celebrates Black History Month. This month helps is a reminder of the tremendous struggle of Black Americans, yet tremendous growth as a nation. There’s remembrance of times of hurt; things that included deep forms of hate and racism, times of segregation, and times of injustice. But praise be to God, we can remember times of resiliency, reconciliation, and healing in our own community and church. All of this has helped reshape and define who we are as a Beloved community and a nation.
Come as we once again explore Black History month. But most importantly, this year the hope is that Black History Month 2023 will promotes opportunities for open dialogue and personal interactions between many cultures that can learn from one another. Hopefully it develops into a domino effect for the rest of the world.
In Jesus Holy Name, amen.
Pastor Clarissa