Last year, I used Clubhouse to share Ash Wednesday services from my church - and it sparked a thought-provoking comment by a listener: "I didn't know African American churches practiced Lent." So, even though this wasn't something that resonated with me directly, as a newly licensed minister and a third-year seminarian with a concentration in Black Church, I began to ask the question: Why aren't more African American Churches talking and/or practicing Lent?
The answer lies in the relevance of this season - though not typically celebrated with fanfare, Lent is an integral part of the Christian journey. It's a period where we reflect on our spiritual life and how it connects to our day-to-day living. It's a period of restoration, repentance, and reconnecting with our faith. For the African American church, this is especially relevant in light of the current social climate racism is a significant issue affecting our community daily. From police brutality to disparities in healthcare and education, it's essential to recognize how faith can help us combat these issues.
Lent is the intersectionality of our faith and social justice. During this season, we can deepen our connection with God and strengthen our commitment to supporting causes in our community to eradicate racism, oppression, and other forms of injustice. We can also use the time to become more aware of how these issues impact people around us so we can offer resources or tangible assistance when needed.
For African Americans, Lent is an opportunity to reassess our social responsibility and what it means for us to live out the gospel. It's a time when we can put real action behind our faith, considering how we treat each other daily. If you are a member of an African American Church, the Black Church, use Lent to reflect on how you can create positive change in your community.
Lent is crucial for reflection and rededication, especially regarding the Black Church. We have often seen this epicenter of faith in our community drift away from its guiding purpose. Still, now more than ever, we must take steps toward ensuring that their vital mission endures. During the Lenten season, let us remember what makes the Black Church unique and work together to preserve its impact on past, present, and future generations.
Furthermore, as we enter into Lent, let us not forget the church hurt that so many have experienced. Too often, outdated mindsets exist in our churches, close-mindedness to LGBTQ+ individuals, and a dismissal of women's voices at the pulpit. But now is an opportunity for healing, a chance to build more inclusive communities where everyone can feel appreciated regardless of their difference, a community with open hearts full of agape love. Let's use this time as the impetus for real change within faith spaces: toward equality and acceptance for all people.
This is the true power of Lent when we are reminded that our faith should be used for good and that it can help us navigate through difficult times with hope and grace. We don't have to wait until Easter Sunday to preach the gospel. The power of Lent reminds us that we can start today. So let's use this season to renew our commitment to justice and create a better world for future generations. There is no more excellent time to start living out Lent in the African American Church.
In conclusion, Lent is a crucial season for the African American Church, where we can reflect on our faith and how it connects to the struggles of our communities. It's a chance to fight injustice and create positive social change within our churches. Let us use this time to recommit ourselves to the mission of Jesus Christ. May we never forget why our churches are so vital and use this season to reaffirm the importance of faith, justice, and love. May God bless us all as we journey through Lent. Amen!
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