In this episode of Youth Ministry Unscripted, Josh, Danny, Isaiah, and Becca dive into the often-overlooked legacy of Black Christians in church history. As Black History Month invites the church to celebrate diversity in God’s kingdom, the hosts explore why many faithful Black voices remain hidden from mainstream narratives—and what youth pastors can do about it.
From early church fathers in North Africa to the American civil rights era, this conversation challenges us to broaden our understanding of church history and elevate voices that have long been sidelined. Listeners will walk away encouraged to disciple their students with a deeper awareness of the global, multicultural body of Christ—and equipped with practical ideas for building more inclusive youth ministries.
Resources & Mentions
Talking to Your White Kids About Black History Month – Rooted Ministry
Relational Discipleship in the Black Church – Rooted Ministry
Richard Allen – Founder of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church
Lemuel Haynes – First ordained African American minister in the U.S.
Howard Thurman – Theologian and mentor to Martin Luther King Jr.
Fannie Lou Hamer – Voting rights activist and devout Christian
James Cone – Father of Black Liberation Theology; The Cross and the Lynching Tree
The Edmondson Center (at RTS Atlanta) – Recommended by Becca for their year-long certificate program on church history and theology (directed by Karen & Carl Ellis)
Bus Ride to Justice – Isaiah’s experiential trip with students to key civil rights locations (Birmingham, Montgomery, Selma, Tuskegee)
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