Religion

Nolan Williams Jr. has introduced a new hymn, "Just Like Selma," which pays tribute to the historic 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches while highlighting ongoing challenges to voting rights in the United States.

Written from a Birmingham jail cell in 1963, Martin Luther King Jr.'s "Letter from Birmingham Jail" endures as a seminal call to reject complacency and embrace moral urgency in the pursuit of justice.

Comedian Drew Desbordes, widely recognized as Druski, has ignited significant online discourse with his recent satirical portrayal of prosperity megachurch culture. The sketch, which has amassed tens of millions of views, has elicited strong reactions from diverse audiences.

The Daniel Fast, rooted in biblical tradition, is a 21-day regimen focusing on simple foods such as vegetables and water. This practice, widely observed among Christians, is noted for its spiritual and physical benefits, including enhancements in cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Renowned gospel composer and singer Richard Smallwood, who passed away on January 30, leaves a profound legacy that has significantly influenced Black worship music. His compositions, celebrated for their emotional depth and spiritual resonance, have become integral to worship services across diverse congregations.

On December 31, 1862, as the Civil War raged, enslaved and free African Americans convened clandestinely to partake in Watch Night, a religious observance marked by communal reflection and the hopeful anticipation of emancipation, with the Emancipation Proclamation poised to take effect at midnight.

Dr. Lisa Clarke Harvin, a grief counselor and co-pastor, offers guidance on navigating grief, particularly during the holidays. She underscores the necessity of self-care, spiritual practices, and the recognition of one's own pain as vital components of the healing process.

Spirit and Truth Church in Atlanta has announced the elimination of $1.5 million in medical debt, offering relief to over 1,100 families across metro Atlanta. This initiative addresses the financial burdens associated with unexpected illness and injury, providing crucial support to those affected.

Karla Reid, a resident of Fort Mill, South Carolina, underwent a heart and kidney transplant following a stroke earlier this year. With the support of her family and friends, she is now in recovery and preparing to celebrate the holidays, embracing life with her new heart and kidney.

In a predominantly white publishing industry, Black authors and publishers are making significant strides by offering faith-based literature that expands spiritual conversations and fosters a more inclusive understanding of faith. These works, particularly relevant during the holiday season, provide readers with meaningful insights and reflections.