Pastoral Reflection

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Reflections As I reflect over the materials presented in African American Pastoral Theology I have become more sensitive to cultural dynamics, life situations and relationships in the church as it relates to providing care for black people. Black people have come a long way in regards to social liberation however, the work of liberation continues. James Cone’s illustration between the cross and the lynching tree open my eyes to how blacks in America are still being lynched today. Cone suggests that when blacks cry out for help and are being ignored they are being lynched. He says that blacks are being lynched today by the criminal justice system, police brutality, in jails, on jobs, continued discrimination, and denial of health care just …show more content…

In retrospect, this quote is very powerful as it relates to black pastoral theology and the black church. Religion has always been that place of refuge for blacks in times of peace and social crisis. The black church provides support, encouragement and fellowship in the face of racism and all forms of discriminations towards blacks. My professor Dr. Ken Walden said to the class: You as black clergy and leaders play a significant role for helping blacks today as it relates to finances, home ownership, self-worth and sexual health just to name a few therefore, we must develop intentional, creative, competent and meaningful ways to assist our congregations in these areas …show more content…

E. B. Dubois says that black people in America struggle with a double consciousness. He defines double consciousness as a sense of always looking at oneself through the eyes of others, of measuring one’s soul by a world that looks on with amused contempt and pity. This is one of the very reasons that blacks must renew their minds with the word of God. The bible tells us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). Thus, we should think of ourselves by what God says about us in his word. Although, man can kill the body he cannot kill the soul (Matt. 10:28). As I preach the word of God to black people I can remind them of who they are in Christ. When one knows who they are in Christ, it empowers them in the face of racism. The Bible if full of texts that are liberating for black people therefore, I must be intentional in selecting them and make appropriate application for current situations. I must stay current with social issues that affect black people. An effective minister must have a Bible in one hand and a newspaper in the other hand. How can I empower black lives if I am unaware of what is going on in their lives? Another way I can empower black people in my congregation is to educate them as it relates to finances, home ownership, self-worth and sexual health just to name a few. I realize that the church cannot meet all needs of black people, however if the church focus on one of these areas, it will empower them in that area. My practical

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