Celebrating Black History Month

Within the Christian community, Black History Month provides an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate the people, stories, contributions and traditions of Black Christians, both throughout history and today.

From the establishment and growth of Black Majority Churches to the influence of African and Caribbean Christian traditions, Black Christians have made a significant contribution to the life of the Church in Britain. Their influence can be seen across worship, music, preaching, community outreach, youth work, leadership and social action.

Black churches have also become important places of connection and support within local communities, creating spaces where people can worship, build relationships and respond to practical needs. The growth of African and Caribbean Pentecostal churches, in particular, has helped shape the changing face of Christianity in the UK.

As a community-focused exhibition, CRE is about bringing people together, sharing ideas and creating opportunities for connection. These values make listening, learning from different experiences and celebrating the diverse traditions within the Christian community particularly important.

Black History Month is therefore not only a time to look back at the people and events that have shaped history, but also an opportunity to recognise the contribution being made by Black Christians and churches today – and to consider how their experiences, traditions and perspectives continue to enrich the wider Christian community.

Did you know? Around 70% of Black or Black British people in England and Wales identified as Christian in the 2021 Census, compared with 46% of the population overall. Black Majority Churches, particularly African and Caribbean Pentecostal congregations, have also played a significant role in shaping Britain's contemporary Christian landscape. Source -Black Majority Churches – UK Black Demographics