While many churches in South Central Conference celebrated Black History Month, on Sabbath, February 22, 2025, New Jerusalem Church in Radcliff, Ky., lifted up her voice in commemoration of the historic contributions of African Americans throughout the church, community, country, and world.
Two of the church’s African American members were recognized by Michael Harris, pastor, for their tremendous contributions to the church, community, various Christ-centered ministries, and outreach. Vivian Nichols DeSouza presented a captivating biography of her mother and honoree, Rose Nichols, church treasurer, followed by Stephon Yates’ inspiring biography of his mother and honoree, Debra Yates, church clerk. They were honored and presented with glass plaques of appreciation. An honorable memorial presentation was also given to former first lady Letetia Boles on behalf of her late husband and previous New Jerusalem pastor, Gary Boles Sr. Boles was an extraordinary minister, leader, preacher, teacher, prayer warrior, husband, and father. The glass plaque with Boles’ photo in the center of it was placed in the church’s foyer for display.
Harris invited and introduced Roger Wade, South Central Conference’s communication director, as the guest speaker. Wade was accompanied by his charming wife, Lorraine. After the Men’s Chorus honored God in song, singing “Down by The River Side,” Wade began his profoundly informative exposé with the story of Simon of Cyrene (Matthew 27:32), and shared many compelling stories and examples of the African American struggles, contributions, and resilience throughout the years from a biblical perspective. Continuing with the rich legacy of the Black experience, Wade emphasized the presence of God through it all.
The theme continued following the afternoon potluck, which consisted of collard greens, sweet potatoes, black-eyed peas, beans, rice, cornbread, hot water cornbread, peach cobbler, pound cake, and drinks. Wade reflected on his life in Trinidad. He presented an overview of the struggles, accomplishments, and triumphs of Black people in Trinidad and Tobago, and their impact from his perspective in contrast to the African American experiences over the years, while embracing their uniqueness, influences, and cultures. The audience was invited to participate in a relevant dialogue during the Q&A period.
The dining room showcased the heritage, identity, and traditions of the Black experience, featuring historical displays of artwork by Black artists, photographs, artifacts, figurines, banners, floral arrangements, and accents of Kente’ cloth in geometric patterns of black, red, green, and gold.
The Black History Program was a tribute to Yeshua Ha Mashiach (Jesus, the Anointed One), Who was the center of the day and of the Black experience. At the end of the program, a closing prayer was offered by Stephon Yates. To God be the Glory!
Kentucky-Tennessee | May 2025
Comments are closed.