African American

Six bishops lead the opening worship and communion service at Black Methodists for Church Renewal’s 58th General Meeting at Holman United Methodist Church in Los Angeles on March 19. From left are Bishops Cedrick Bridgeforth, Tracy S. Malone, Dottie Escobedo-Frank, Cynthia Moore-Koikoi, Julius C. Trimble and Kennetha J. Bigham-Tsai. The three-day meeting included an Ebony Bishops panel discussion on “The State of the Church,” reports on the Black College Fund and Africa University and information on the revised Social Principles and social entrepreneurship. Photo by John W. Coleman, UM News.

Black caucus finds hope in work ahead

During the 58th annual gathering of Black Methodists for Church Renewal, members were called to fight for justice and challenge systems of inequality.

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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