African-Americans contributing to the Church

African-Americans are a vital part of the tapestry of The United Methodist Church. They have played important roles in the development of the denomination in the United States since 1758.

A service of appreciation at the 2004 General Conference celebrated African-American contributions, witness, and presence within the denomination and recognized “those who stayed” in spite of racism.

Today Black Methodists for Church Renewal represents more than 2,400 black United Methodist congregations and approximately 500,000 African-American members in the United States.


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Church History
The history of Pickett Chapel United Methodist Church in Lebanon, Tenn., goes back almost 200 years. Pickett Chapel is believed to be the oldest African American church building in the state of Tennessee. Photo from video by Lilla Marigza, UM News.

Historic church tells story of slavery, triumph

Pickett Chapel has served both Black and white congregations over nearly 200 years. The fingerprints of enslaved people who built this church can still be seen today.
Local Church
Members of The Village United Methodist Church in DeSoto, Texas, dance during an Oct. 27 worship service in the parking lot of the church. The church hosts a tailgate-like event when the Dallas Cowboys play at home. Photo by Jim Patterson, UM News.

Young Black church thrives with ‘contemporary feel’

At The Village United Methodist Church in the Dallas area, leaders and members of the congregation are embracing a new, energetic worship service and having success connecting with young people.
Social Concerns
The Rev. Larry Pickens Photo courtesy of the author.

Advancing a theology of reparations

The Black experience is grounded in the pain of racism, and reparative justice offers a means to address that trauma and transform relationships.

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