General News and Announcements

January 18, 2012

The month of February is Black History Month—or African Heritage Month—in Canada.

New for 2012:

• God’s Glory Cannot Be Hidden, a powerful, moving new worship resource
• A free webinar series on Sankofa: The Histories and Heritages of Black Peoples in the United Church; register online.

The United Church is intentional about celebrating Black History Month and the many contributions of African Canadians to church and society. Peoples of African descent have a long and diverse history in Canadian society and churches; this is an opportunity to honour the past and present contributions of Black peoples. Discover more about why we have Black History Month in Canada.

Marking Black History Month is also an excellent opportunity for United Churches—and all Canadians—to learn more about the lives and legacies of peoples of African descent. It could also be a time for congregations to make a commitment to becoming more culturally sensitive, racially inclusive, and justice-conscious. It’s a perfect time to deepen exploration of becoming an intercultural church.
There are many resources available to help congregations engage with Black History Month:

• The United Church DVD and study guide Sankofa: The Histories and Heritages of Black Peoples in The United Church of Canada introduces diverse histories and heritages of Black peoples in the United Church, and facilitates a deeper understanding of the United Church’s commitment to becoming an intercultural, anti-racist church.
• The United Church’s YouTube channel features a popular 7-minute video that shares some of the history of Black peoples in the United Church, from the 1800s to present day, and offers opportunities for celebrations and as well as challenges for the church. This video can be used in worship or for education.
• A 90-minute DVD, Seeking Salvation: A History of The Black Church in Canada, available from UCRD store, outlines Black history in Canadian churches over four centuries; it includes details about The United Church of Canada.
• Visit our Black History Month page for additional worship resources and a bulletin insert available online that can be adapted for a variety of local contexts.

Offer your feedback on this year’s Black History Month resources or send us your suggestions for next year.