Jurisdiction’s BMCR holds 55th annual meeting in S.C.
By Dr. Reginald Lee
COLUMBIA—The Southeastern Jurisdiction Black Methodists for Church Renewal marked a significant milestone with its 55th annual meeting, held Oct. 23-26 at Journey United Methodist Church.
This year’s theme, “Building a Future of Faith, Family and Community,” inspired attendees to unite for justice, resilience and transformation within the Black church and beyond.
The gathering served as a clarion call to confront pressing issues such as racial injustice, poverty and systemic oppression within Black communities. Drawing inspiration from Nehemiah 4:14, leaders urged participants to embody the spirit of Nehemiah, who famously led the rebuilding of Jerusalem against overwhelming odds.
South Carolina Resident Bishop Leonard Fairley emphasized unity as he was introduced as the new bishop of the South Carolina Annual Conference.
The Rev. Tony Love, former chair of National BMCR, delivered a compelling keynote that set a passionate tone for the conference. He called for renewed dedication to justice and equity, urging attendees not only to vote but also to engage actively in political activism, integrating justice into their faith journeys.
Mississippi’s Bishop Sharma Lewis delivered a message of faith for challenging times during a powerful Holy Communion service, reinforcing the shared commitment of clergy and laity to the church’s prophetic mission.
Dr. Martin Quick led a session titled “Intergenerational IQ,” fostering vital conversations about unity across generations within the Black church. Participants explored both their differences and shared values, creating a space to appreciate each generation’s unique contributions.
In a dynamic town hall, Dr. Hanna Broome, director of religious affairs for Repairers of the Breach, highlighted the Black church’s influence in public affairs. She emphasized the importance of a unified Black church vote in advocating for justice and shaping policies that promote equity.
An impactful Bible study on Black generational liberation theology and the effects of trauma on Black communities was also conducted. This session provided attendees with practical tools and spiritual resources to overcome rubbish barriers to healing, empowering them to lead transformative, generational initiatives for liberation and justice.
A panel discussion featuring Bishops Fairley and Lewis along with Bishops Robin Dease (North Georgia), Kenneth H. Carter (Western North Carolina) and Gary Rivas (Methodist Church of Southern Africa)—addressed the future of Black Methodism amid evolving challenges and opportunities post-GC2024. Another discussion—led by Dr. Harry Singleton, a prominent James Cone scholar, and Bishop Dease—focused on the “Black Paper” on Black Methodism. They emphasized the need to confront White Christian Nationalism and encouraged Black Methodists to lead in the fight against racial injustice. The session concluded with a decision to create their own documents addressing Project 2025 and White Christian Nationalism.
The closing banquet featured Dr. Michael L. Bowie Jr., co-author of “Dare to Shift” and national director of SBC21, who delivered an inspiring message encouraging attendees to adopt “right-side thinking” and bold leadership during transformative times. His call to action resonated deeply, inspiring both personal and communal growth.
The 55th annual BMCR meeting was not merely a conference; it marked the inception of a movement. Attendees left invigorated and equipped to champion justice in their communities. The intimate setting of fewer than 100 lay and clergy fostered meaningful dialogue, allowing participants to address the future of Black Methodism and discipleship candidly. This gathering reaffirmed the mission of the Black church, strengthening attendees’ commitments to faith, family, and community. Many expressed excitement about attending next year’s meeting, to be held at the newly created Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference of the UMC.
United in purpose, the Black Church, with the support of SEJ-BMCR, continues to stand as a beacon of hope and a powerful force for justice, inspiring all to serve, uplift, and build a future where justice prevails and faith endures.