From Jim Somerville,
Senior Pastor
For nearly a decade now David Bailey and I have invited you to read a book during Black History Month and then join us for a public conversation.
We think it’s time to take it up a notch.
David is the Founder and Chief Vision Officer of Arrabon, a Richmond-based nonprofit dedicated to “healing and cultivating reconciling communities.” Arrabon offers two experiential learning opportunities that could transform an interest in reconciliation into a true passion. One of these is in Washington, DC; the other is in Montgomery, Alabama. Visit arrabon.com/engaging-your-community/experiential-learning/ to learn more and to see a video preview of each experience.
If you’re not ready for that kind of commitment, I invite you to try the stay-at-home option. Take some time during the month of February to:
1. Read The Souls of Black Folk, by W. E. B. Du Bois, a slim volume of remarkable depth and a helpful description of post-Civil War Amercia, or
2. Watch The Birth of a Nation, Directed by D. W. Griffith (all three hours and fifteen minutes are available on YouTube. or
3. Learn the words of Lift Every Voice and Sing, often called “The African-American National Anthem,” or
Do all three!
And then join us in the Fellowship Hall of Richmond’s First Baptist Church at 7 p.m. on Monday, March 9, for a thoughtful discussion of the book, a viewing of several clips from the film, and a rousing rendition of Lift Every Voice.*
I hope to see you there!
*A livestream option will be available for those unable to attend in person. Details will be shared closer to the event.
