Bishop Violet L. Fisher, the first African American woman elected bishop in the United Methodist Church’s Northeastern Jurisdiction, died Nov. 17 at age 86. A barrier-breaking leader and lifelong educator, she is remembered for her trailblazing ministry, global service, and enduring impact on women, Black clergy, and faith communities across generations.
Category: #FaithWorks
Pastor Jamal Bryant launches digital protest of Dollar General
Pastor Jamal Bryant has launched an electronic protest of Dollar General, calling attention to the company’s practices in Black communities. Bryant says the chain contributes to health disparities and food insecurity. Rather than call for a full boycott, he is urging a digital protest to demand change without harming those who rely on the store.
Soul Shop for Black Churches equips faith leaders to address suicide in their congregations
Soul Shop for Black Churches is equipping faith leaders to address suicide and trauma in Black communities, providing training that combines mental health expertise with pastoral care. The program empowers congregations to have open conversations, reduce stigma and offer hope to those in desperate situations
My boss said my religion was wrong and to join their church– now what?
By Dr. Kendrick RobersonWord in Black Although religious freedom and expression are firmly protected in the workplace by the 1964 Civil Rights Act, President Trump’s Office of Personnel Management (OPM)— following the suit of other agencies disregarding standing law and precedent — has issued a memorandum titled, “Protecting Religious Expression in the Federal Workplace,” which […]
The time is now. The need is great: The Black family reunion must focus on family-owned land
Black family reunions provide a unique opportunity to preserve and leverage family-owned land, which can be used for food security, economic opportunity, and collective power.
Empowerment Temple celebrates 25 years of faith and community
Empowerment Temple AME Church is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a black-tie gala on Sept. 19, featuring keynote speaker and founding pastor Rev. Dr. Jamal Bryant. Since its launch in 2000, the church has grown from a small Bible study into a movement that blends faith, activism, and community outreach in Baltimore.
Rev. Bryant urges Black Church to spark a moral revival, confront White supremacy on March anniversary
At Metropolitan AME Church in Washington, D.C., clergy and community members marked the 62nd anniversary of the March on Washington with prayer, reflection, and a fiery sermon from the Rev. Jamal Bryant. Bryant urged the Black Church to confront White supremacy, embrace protest over silence, and lead a renewed movement for justice.
Kirbyjon Caldwell: A pastor’s path from indictment to remorse and renewal
Re-entering public life, Kirbyjon Caldwell confronts lingering stigma while leaning on faith, family and community support.
Black Church and Black Press unite to empower Black America
By Black Press USA Newswire Nashville, TN — July 25, 2025: In a historic announcement, a coalition of leading Black faith organizations and the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) unveiled a strategic partnership and plan to confront systemic disparities impacting African American communities nationwide. Dr. Boise Kimber, president of the National Baptist Convention, USA; Bishop […]
Roslyn Chandler Wood, devoted educator and community pillar, dies at 96
Roslyn Chandler Wood, a devoted educator, cultural advocate, and lifelong Baltimore resident, passed away on July 17 at age 96. Family, friends, and community members gathered July 24 to honor her legacy of service, excellence, and empowerment during a heartfelt celebration of life at St. James Episcopal Church.
Celebrating National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month: A look at therapists with religious- based practices
July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. This week, the AFRO takes a look at therapists with religious- based practices.
State of the People wraps three-day national tour in Baltimore
The State of the People National Assembly concluded its three-day gathering in Baltimore, bringing together Black leaders, activists, and organizations to build a national agenda rooted in empowerment, community healing, and political action. Key discussions—such as the “Black Women Leading Change” panel—centered on the importance of rest and wellness as vital tools of resistance, especially for Black women bearing the weight of communal responsibility and systemic stress.

