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What do we do when we’re done talking? After we’ve said all that we can say, after we type the long post on Facebook, after we hit send, then what? What happens when we put the phones down? We often attribute activism and protest to a “back in the day” kind of thing. We say we aren’t our ancestors, no longer putting our bodies on the front lines to face the challenges of living in the United States. But has that translated to no fight at all?

Faith that endures is not faith that gets easier with time. In many ways, it becomes more demanding. Scripture tells us that faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. That means faith requires us to believe in the best of what we hope for, even when there is no visible proof standing before us.

This year provides new opportunities to acknowledge Black history—and herstory—as well as a growing Pan-African spirit. The Black History Centennial, the 250th anniversary of the United States, and the G20 convening in the United States all offer unique opportunities for engagement. Our commitment to ending hunger means that we should advocate with the U.S. Congress, the African Union, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Congressional Black Caucus, and the United Nations (UN). The UN has eight mechanisms that address issues affecting People of African Descent, as well as the African Group, which represents 54 countries on global issues. 

It is not every day that one can claim to have personally known a Civil Rights Icon – not just recognizing their name, but having the distinct honor of sharing meals, engaging in incredible conversations about the harrowing tales of the infamous “Bloody Sunday,” singing Freedom songs together, hearing live testimony about the ordeal on the Edmund Pettus Bridge, attending church side by side, and assisting with book signings. In my collection of memoirs, I treasure the friendship and sisterhood of perhaps my most famous Civil Rights activist, apart from Dr. Bernard Lafayette, who was also one of Lynda’s mentors. Listening to film clips of Dr. Lowery reveals the courage that resonated in her voice and delivery.

The Christian Bible provides consistent lessons concerning God’s expectations of those who lead the people, admonishing them to do so with reverence for God’s guidance and to treat all entrusted to their care with righteousness and justice. While much is made of the belief that these ideals provide the foundation of our nation’s articles of governance, it is difficult to find evidence of a connection between the guidance of the Bible and the policies of the political party currently in power.

There is something powerful about being a part of African Methodism, a spiritual movement with both history and optimism at its heart. The African Methodist Episcopal Church is more than just an organization. It is a living monument to God’s faithfulness and the determination of a people who believe that worship and service are inextricably linked. Wherever we go in the connection, the same Spirit of freedom and purpose may be felt, indicating that this church’s work truly spans the globe.

Hope, partnership, and purpose were on full display as community leaders, residents, and faith partners gathered for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of Vineyard Village, a new affordable housing development designed to serve low- to moderate-income families in Crestview. Held on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., the celebration marked the official opening of the 18-unit apartment complex situated on 1.4 acres of city-owned land

A wonder from the beauty of our souls united. A wonder that emerges from the sacred. Between our rage and our tears. Behind our fears and after our prayers. Inside our courage and above our differences.

The wonder in our spirits that won’t be silenced or suppressed. In the face of repressive violence meant to destabilize our communities and our minds and our everyday lives, like dropping off our children at school, make room for wonder.

Believers would be wise to pray this prayer for themselves and for their families every single day. Why is this true? Well, the answer is simple. No one or nothing can protect you as God can. He is God Almighty.