As an African American and an ordained Baptist minister, I stand firmly against the U.S. support and complicity in the violent takeover of Gaza and the forced displacement of the Palestinian people. This is not merely a political issue—it is a moral and spiritual crisis that demands our collective voice and resistance. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. reminded us that…

In John 6, we encounter a profound event that speaks directly to the struggles of the marginalized, the oppressed, and those who face seemingly insurmountable challenges. This miracle, the feeding of the five thousand, is not just a story of divine power but a call to action for those who believe in justice, equality, and the dignity of all people. From a liberation theological perspective, this passage challenges us to confront the systemic injustices of poverty, unequal pay, lack of healthcare, the rights of immigrants, the rights of LGBTQ individuals, and the economic struggles of the middle class.

-Exodus 14:9,13-14 (NRSV) Click here to listen to the homily!

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Nearly six decades ago, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his prophetic "I've Been to the Mountaintop" speech, encapsulating the essence of the Civil Rights Movement and outlining a vision for freedom and equality. This speech, imbued with hope and imbued with determination, transcended its immediate context to become a timeless call to action. As we stand in the 21st century, King's words continue to resonate, reminding us of our collective obligation to hold America to its foundational promise of freedom for all.

In Esther 4:9-17, we encounter one of the most compelling calls to moral courage in Scripture. Esther, a Jewish queen in the Persian court, faces an existential crisis. Her people are under threat from Haman, a high-ranking official determined to annihilate them. Mordecai, her uncle, challenges her with words that echo through time: “Who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14, NIV).

"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze." -Isaiah 43:2 Isaiah 43 is set within the cultural, historical, political, and theological context of the Babylonian exile (6th century BCE), a period of profound crisis for the people of Judah.

We stand at the crossroads of history, shaped by the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us and were called to embody a divine mandate of love, justice, and peace. As people of African descent, our heritage speaks to the enduring strength of communities that have fought for freedom, equality, and dignity against the odds. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to these values and declare our resolve to build a world reflective of God’s vision for humanity.

In the shadow of the Trumpist and MAGA-dominated sociopolitical landscape, we often find ourselves overwhelmed—not only in our personal struggles but in the collective fights for equity and liberation. The challenges ahead appear insurmountable. Yet this is not a new story. The composer of a simple but profound chorus gave voice to this very reality: Got any rivers you think are uncrossable?

Acknowledgment of Heritage and Strength I recognize the extensive history of struggle my ancestors endured, beginning in Alkebu-lan (Africa), moving through Ichirouganaim (Barbados), Guiana (Guyana), and eventually arriving in the lands of the Piscataway and Tsalagihi peoples (United States of America). Despite the profound challenges they faced, I embody their resilience and strength. As a descendant of Africa and the Caribbean, a proud Guyanese American, and a global citizen, I honor their legacy with pride.