by Rev. Martha Simmons
Special to the Tri-State Defender

As we wrap up Black History Month, I cannot help but reflect upon the role the nation’s current economic state has played in the African-American Protestant Church this year.

While the 21st  Century version of scarcity and economic lack is new for some communities, this is something the African-American community has known throughout their pilgrimage in the country. It made me wonder – given the fact that the African-American community has historically endured harsh economic conditions – what approaches work now?

I often think about the historic aspect of taking scraps and crumbs and building a community. This realization is part of African American DNA, dating back to years ago when churches in the African-American community were built with five and ten cent tithes. Today, more than ever, preachers need a tool that helps a new generation understand what it took for the African-American community to strive and thrive in challenging situations.

Through an online lectionary containing more than 3,000 pages of free and unique material – ranging from audio of Langston Hughes actually reading one of his most famous works, “The Negro Speaks of Rivers,” to the origins of Kwanzaa as explained by its creator, Maulana Karenga, to more than 50 video recordings that present the African-American journey in America – the African American Lectionary uses culture as a lens to view the African-American community.

The African American Lectionary chronicles the moral imagination of its culture. It lays out the foundation that it would be a mistake to rush to practical solutions without, while serving as a compendium of theological imagination and a resource on how to encourage the spirits of people.

One aspect of the African American Lectionary that provides inspiration and practical application is “The Big Idea” section.  This is a practical tool for preachers across the country. It allows churches of similar size and dynamic to see how other churches are working in their community, offering practical insights to address major social issues impacting our country.

Before launching the African American Lectionary, 10,000 African-American preachers were surveyed to determine the most important themes that they would like to see addressed. The results showed that strengthening the family, racism, violence in the community, unemployment and economic empowerment, strengthening education and age and health issues are all at the top of their lists. It is not surprising that these themes mirror the political environment and the topics of the day.

 In these difficult times, the African-American community can use inspiration to persevere just as we have done in the past. The issues discussed on the lectionary affect us all, no matter what race. African-American History Month is an opportunity for everyone to learn more about African-American culture through the lectionary (www.theafricanamericanlectionary.org) and to learn more about the seeds of perseverance and hope that can be used in the tough times we now face.

(Rev. Martha Simmons is Creator and Director of The African American Lectionary.)