As a child, a very important part of my upbringing was spending Sunday afternoons visiting my grandmother’s house for Sunday dinner. I would argue that Sunday dinners in the South, especially in the Black community, have been a sacred place for formation and learning the importance of one’s history. When I was younger my favorite part of Sunday dinner was when the older generation would tell stories about our family’s history, our ancestors, and the events that have shaped us into the people that we are today. At some point during the meal, we could always count on one of the elders to turn to us and say: “Always remember where you’ve come from.” This was both a warning and a security, to know that no matter what happens in life, our history has the power to shape and strengthen us in life.

As we begin Black History Month 2021, I hope you will spend time remembering where you have come from. Marcus Garvey, known for his strong beliefs in Black culture and heritage in the early 20^th century, once wrote: “A person without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture is like a tree without roots.” I believe we are living in a time when we need to reclaim and elevate our history. It is in our remembering that we will gain clarity and direction in accomplishing all that God has in store for us today and for the future.

It’s Dinner Time!

Pastor Cowser