Honoring Our History, Resourcing the Present, Looking to the Future

Black History Month, observed every February in the United States and Canada since 1976, is a time dedicated to recognizing and honoring the rich cultural heritage and significant contributions of African Americans. Observing Black History Month is not just about acknowledging the past; it's a commitment to a future of inclusivity, understanding, and unity in Christ.

The United Methodist Church has a long history of both racial struggle and racial justice work. A significant milestone came in 1968, when the newly formed denomination abolished the Central Jurisdiction, a segregated structure that had excluded Black churches and clergy from full participation in the life of the Church. Bishop James S. Thomas was honored during the 2004 General Conference in Pittsburgh for his contributions to dismantling the former Central Jurisdiction. When he was elected in 1964, Thomas was the first Black bishop of the North Central Jurisdiction of The Methodist Church. He served as bishop of the East Ohio Conference from 1976 until his retirement in 1988.

“I have always believed that the African American United Methodist Church plays a significant role in our time and continues to play a prophetic role in creating a Church that is the beloved community,” said Bishop Hee-Soo Jung, resident bishop of the Ohio Episcopal Area which consists of both the East and West Ohio Conferences.

“As United Methodists, we are called to stand against racism. Black History Month is a time to celebrate the contributions of Black Americans, reflect on our shared history, and commit ourselves to the ongoing work of racial justice,” said Will Fenton-Jones, Multicultural Ministries director in both the East Ohio and West Ohio Conferences. “Our Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church and our Book of Resolutions affirm our commitment to racial justice and reconciliation. Our Conferences have been engaged in this work – and we encourage pastors, congregations, and faith communities to use this time to deepen your understanding and take tangible steps toward justice.”

Fenton-Jones has compiled a wealth of Black History Month resources from across The United Methodist Church that clergy and laity in local churches can use during February and throughout the year. The resources are posted on the East Ohio Conference and West Ohio Conference websites.

“The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream of a Beloved Community, rooted in justice, love, and reconciliation, challenges us as United Methodists to examine how we embody these principles today in a fractured and often unjust world,” wrote Rev. Dr. Giovanni Arroyo, general secretary of the General Commission on Religion & Race in his January 25 letter to the Church. “The Church must reclaim its prophetic witness, addressing not only individual acts of prejudice but dismantling the systems and structures that perpetuate racial inequity. This is the moment for us to utilize our collective voice to resist evil in all of its forms, as our baptismal vows charge us.”

“Living the Dream: Bold Faith, Hopeful Future” – February 23

4:00 – 6:00 p.m. @ Garfield Memorial UMC in Pepper Pike

The East and West Ohio Conferences of The United Methodist Church are coming together to honor the legacy of Dr. King with a joint worship service on Sunday, February 23 at Garfield Memorial United Methodist Church in Pepper Pike.

The theme of the day hosted by Bishop Hee-Soo Jung is “Living the Dream: Bold Faith, Hopeful Future”. The 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. service will focus on building Dr. King’s vision of a beloved community rooted in justice, love, and hope.

The keynote speaker will be Bishop Julius C. Trimble, General Secretary of the General Board of Church & Society of The United Methodist Church. The service and the bishop’s message will inspire participants to carry forward Dr. King’s God-given vision of unity and hope. An informal reception offering light refreshments and opportunities for fellowship and conversation will follow the service. The service will be live-streamed to allow broader access for those unable to attend in-person.

Click here for livestream of the February 23 service at Garfield Memorial UMC.