Welcome back to another Wednesday edition of #JoyfulBlackSpaces with BFF guest blogger, Lauren N. Jackson.
What are Black spaces? As a reminder, Black spaces are intentional spaces and environments designed to uplift and empower the Black community. These spaces bring JOY because they allow Blacks to rid themselves of the daily microaggressions, racism, and prejudices often experienced in society, and allow them to fully embrace their Blackness; their uniqueness, dialect, identity, and culture. Black spaces include spaces like higher education institutions, restaurants, churches, museums, and the like.
Today’s #BlackJoy moment we will focus on “The Black Church.”
“Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound. That saved a wretch like me.” The sweet sounds of the spiritual song, Amazing Grace, and other hymns are the staple of most Black churches in America. These hymns hold deep meaning and significance within the context of the Black church. They are not merely songs, but powerful expressions of faith, resilience, and hope. These hymns have been passed down through generations, carrying the collective experiences, struggles, and triumphs of African Americans.
Hymns are just one aspect that shapes what the Black church is today. A closer look at history reveals that Black churches were birthed during times of oppression and adversity, and provided a sanctuary for African Americans to gather, worship, and find solace. And for at least two hours on Sunday mornings, Blacks can be free and liberated from societal ills. And today, the same rings true. “The Black Church” has been a place where individuals can express their spirituality freely, connect with a higher power, and find comfort in a community that understands their struggles; all while wearing their “Sunday Best” attire. Predominantly Black churches continue to progressively lead the charge for several causes: spirituality, activism, and leadership.
Weekly powerful sermons by the pastor, moving songs of praise and worship by the choir, and soul-moving prayers by church leaders help to shape and deepen the spiritual growth and development of parishioners. Outside of the four walls of the church, many Black churches have been instrumental in advocating for social justice and working together to address societal issues that impact Black communities: healthcare, poverty, and education; to name a few. The Black church embodies JOY because it’s a space that offers strength, hope, belonging, resilience, and an opportunity to engage in vibrant worship, celebration, and praise!
I would like to shout out two churches that have played an integral role in my spiritual growth and development: Faith Temple Church of God in Christ (COGIC) in Wilmington, NC (my home church) and Cedar Street Baptist Church of God in Richmond, VA (my local church). Thank you to Pastor Lorenzo Edge and Dr. Anthony Michael Chandler, Sr. for your spirit-filled sermons, service to the church and community, and for creating opportunities for me to develop as a leader within and outside the church!
Want to learn more about the Black church? Check out these phenomenal documentaries and articles that highlight the historical foundations of the Black church and their relevance today:
- How the Black Church Saved Black America (Harvard News)
- To Understand America You Need to Understand the Black Church (Time)
You can also check out some of these top Gospel hits in the playlists below!
“Nothing is more powerful than the Black church experience. A good choir and a good sermon in the black church, it’s pretty hard not to be moved and be transported.” ~Barack Obama
See you all tomorrow!!
Black Future Feminist 