American Black Journal’s series on the Black Church in Detroit continues, produced in partnership with the Ecumenical Theological Seminary and Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. In honor of Women’s History Month, the show takes a look at the history of women in the Black church.
Historically, the contributions of Black women have been extremely crucial to the church’s growth, operations and survival, yet many houses of worship remain male dominated with few women in leadership roles. Stephen Henderson has a candid conversation with three women ministers: Rev. Dr. JoAnn Watson of West Side Unity Church, Rev. Cindy Rudolph of Oak Grove AME Church and Rev. Kenita Harris of Detroit Bible Tabernacle. They’ll talk about the importance of faith and religion in the lives of Black women, their roles in the church today, and the ongoing debate over gender equality in the ministry.
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Jemar Tisby’s ‘The Spirit of Justice’ explores Black activism and its link to the Black church
“The Spirit of Justice: True Stories of Faith, Race and Resistance” by historian and New York Times bestselling author Jemar Tisby explores the link between Black activism and the Black church. Host Stephen Henderson talks with Tisby about prominent Black activists and the impact their faith had on the fight for racial justice. Tisby also shares his thoughts about Black history being taught in schools.
The historical impact of Detroit’s Black churches
From serving as stations on the Underground Railroad to establishing schools and hospitals and hosting civil rights leaders, the Black Church in Detroit is an important part of Black liberation and empowerment. Host Stephen Henderson explores the historical impact of Detroit’s Black churches.
Local Black churches play a supporting role in students’ education
As students return to the classroom, the faith-based community continues to play a supporting role in their education. American Black Journal’s “Black Church in Detroit” series explores the contributions of local churches. Guest host Trudy Gallant-Stokes talks with Bishop Dr. Corletta Vaughn of Holy Ghost Cathedral Church and Pastor Velma Jean Overman of Christ Temple City of Refuge.