In observance of Black History Month, we are sharing a conversation held last summer with four African-American pastors in the Charis Fellowship. Dave Guiles, executive director at Encompass World Partners, held a roundtable discussion via Zoom on Juneteenth, a holiday celebrating the emancipation of those who had been enslaved in the United States.
Each man shared his story of being black in America, as well as his own story of faith and journey as a pastor and leader in today’s culture. The stories shared here are impactful, and we are grateful to these men for being willing to share their open —and sometimes painful — thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
“I appreciated the roundtable discussion; it’s important to have brothers and sisters willing to lean in to our stories. Our nation is divided on so many fronts and the world is looking for answers. Our Lord Jesus wants to say, ‘Look at my Body for the picture of cultural unity and perfect love,’ but sadly He can’t. We cannot be of any benefit or example to the world unless we allow the Holy Spirit to get us right. This is a great first step in that direction.”
Irv Clark, senior pastor at Grace Brethren Church in Clinton, Md.
Our prayer is that this video will start honest conversations, cause each of us to examine our own hearts, and develop a deeper love and understanding for each other and the diversity we have through the Gospel message of Jesus Christ.
Watch the whole video here.
Please note: The content in this video is sensitive and may not be suitable for young children. Please use this video to educate yourself and use it as you see fit with your own family and congregation.
This story appeared in GraceConnect eNews. To subscribe to the weekly e-newsletter that includes news and information from congregations in the Charis Fellowship, click here.