October marks the start of Black History Month (BHM) in the UK, a time to celebrate and recognise the invaluable contributions and rich history of black communities to society. Recognising the strength and resilience of black people worldwide, it’s also an opportunity to advocate for racial equality and social justice.
This year, we have a new black history web page with lots of information about our service of thanksgiving and celebration event, and where you can read blog entries and personal stories, plus access a whole range of prayers and resources for you to use in your church communities throughout the month and beyond.
On Saturday 4 October, you can join us in a Celebration of Identity & Belonging, at Southwark Cathedral. There will be a service of thanksgiving with a Eucharist celebration, followed by a workshop focused on our theme, “Who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15b).
Drawing inspiration from Jesus’ words in Matthew’s Gospel, this year’s theme explores how cultural and social heritage interacts with our God-given identities. The service will give people an opportunity to look back at the significant contributions made by black people to the Church and society, while also looking forward to a future free of racism and inequality.
In partnership with the Southwark Diocesan Board of Education, there will be contributions from young people from schools across the diocese through music and fellowship of being God’s multi-ethnic kingdom realised in one place.
The workshop will be led by Southwark’s Area Racial Justice Leads and will take the audience through a timeline, looking back and reflecting on black contributions to society and the church, whilst looking forward with active hope, and more specifically to share what Southwark are actively doing across south London and east Surrey in the space of anti-racism.
All are welcome – register free here.
You can also download a poster for this year’s event.
There are lots of special services and events taking place across the diocese to help you celebrate and observe BHM – find out more here.
