Published on 12/10/2009

Six area pastors were posed the question: “Does Jesus’ race matter?”

Does Jesus’ race matter?

At the Hattiloo Theatre, ‘Black Nativity’ – a retelling of the classic Nativity story with an entirely black cast, began its December run last week and continues through Dec. 27. (Photo courtesy of Hattiloo Theatre)

Six area pastors were posed the question: “Does Jesus’ race matter?”

“I think it is important that people recognize that Jesus went to Egypt during his early years. He didn’t go there because he was light-skinned. Science has already proven that humanity itself started in Africa.”

Rev. C.W. Campbell, pastor
Christ Triumphant Church, Marion, Ark.

“No. He died for us all.”

Rev. Reuben Jones, pastor
East Antioch Baptist Church, Memphis

“No. Love is the issue.”

Rev. F. Garrison Jr. assistant pastor
King Solomon Missionary Baptist Church, Memphis

“I think what Jesus represents transcends race. Jesus is the embodiment of the word of God. Jesus is the word of God made flesh. The word of God is defined by neither race nor culture nor gender nor flesh.”

Rev. Edwin C. Sanders, pastor
Metropolitan Interdenominational Church, Nashville

“It doesn’t matter. He was the son of the most high.”

Rev. Issac A. Wright Sr., pastor
New Friendship Baptist Church, Memphis

“No. He was human.”

Rev. James Morganfield Jr., pastor
Abyssinia Baptist Church, Memphis

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