Black History Month
Churches can engage with Black History Month by incorporating various resources and activities into their services and events.
Here are some ways churches can participate in Black History Month 2026:
1. Invite Black Preachers and Leaders: Churches can welcome Black preachers, worship leaders, and theologians to share their perspectives and experiences throughout the year.
2. Share Impactful Stories: Churches can present stories of impactful individuals such as Pastor Daniels Ekarte and other Black leaders working in justice and mission.
3. Liturgical Resources: Utilize liturgical resources for Black History Month, including services of the Word, Eucharistic services, prayers of lament, and commission, as well as additional resources for Bible studies, youth work, Messy Church, and music.
4. Legacy Reflection: Reflect on legacy through the Everyday Faith app, exploring different aspects of legacy based on the names' meanings and sharing experiences to shape the future.
5. Racial Justice Offerings: Watch offerings on Racial Justice, such as short films by Testament, which speak to the presence of racism within the context of the church and the contemporary Christian experience.
6. These activities not only honor the contributions of Black people but also commit to justice and unity within the church community
Take a look here for more resources and ideas.
In the Diocese of Chichester, work is underway for an exhibition on Faith, Empire and Black History in Church Spaces. This will consist of a series of display boards exploring a range of stories, including the SS Mendi and the 600 Black South African soldiers commemorated at St John the Evangelist Church, Newtimber; Olaudah Equiano, the abolitionist; Roque Ferdinand, commemorated at St Mary Magdalene, Madehurst; the Uganda Martyrs and their witness to faith; and Project Spire, the Church of England’s fund for healing, justice and repair. The exhibition will be complemented by presentations, as well as opportunities for discussion and networking, alongside African food.
More details about this project including times and venue will be shared in due course. If you would like to make a contribution to this event please contact: Vitalis Ngwambi, the Diocesan Racial Justice Co-ordinator - he can be reached on his email: vitalis.ngwambi@chichester.anglican.org