This week on American Black Journal: 

The Black church’s role in healing, advocacy in the aftermath of the 2024 election

As the dust settles from the 2024 election, the nation continues to face a deepening divide. The results have sparked discussions across the political spectrum with particular focus on how communities of color, especially African Americans, will be impacted by the vote. 

In Detroit, a city with a rich history of political activism and church leadership, local religious leaders are looking ahead, acknowledging the tension during and after the election while emphasizing the role the Black church plays in both healing and advocacy.

In this installment of American Black Journal’s “The Black Church in Detroit” series, host Stephen Henderson examines the 2024 election results and the role of African American churches going forward. Henderson leads a frank discussion with Rev. Dr. Theodore Turman of First Baptist Church of Detroit, who is also the President of the Ecumenical Theological Seminary, and Rev. Cindy Rudolph from Oak Grove AME Church.

They talk about how politics impacts many facets of daily life, the current division in America, and the mental health challenges that have resulted from the contentious nature of the election. The group also discusses the low voter turnout in Detroit, concerns over voter apathy, and the importance of teaching civics to young people to help them understand how politics affects their everyday lives.

Additionally, Dr. Turman and Rev. Rudolph talk about what they’re hearing from their congregants about the election. Dr. Turman reflects on how some church members were disappointed by the election results, while others were not, and how some households are divided in their feelings. He shares his efforts to provide context to what people are seeing and encourages them to remain faithful in the wake of the results.  

Plus, Rev. Rudolph expresses her belief that Black women were impacted to a greater degree by the presidential race results, citing racism and sexism as two key elements that may have played a role in how people voted. She also discusses moving forward and uplifting the spirits of the people served by the church, especially during this holiday season.

Church of the Messiah Detroit celebrates 150th anniversary with ‘The Audacity of Faith’ event

The Church of the Messiah Detroit commemorated its 150th anniversary this year with a gala  on Nov. 1 at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul in Detroit. The event’s theme, “The Audacity of Faith,” celebrated the church’s 150 years of service and community building.   

Founded in 1874, the church serves a diverse congregation and offers vital services such as affordable housing, employment assistance, medical care, and free internet access for residents. Additionally, the church proudly boasts an 84-member marching band that promotes literacy.

Each year, Church of the Messiah Pastor Barry Randolph organizes the Silence the Violence march and rally, one of the largest anti-gun violence events in the country.

“American Black Journal” shares clips from the church’s 150th anniversary celebration.