Black Church Leaders Publish Three New Books on History, Women in Ministry, and Youth Engagement

Three prominent Black church leaders published new books in early 2026, each addressing a different challenge facing the Black Church today.

Rev. W. Franklyn Richardson released "Never Lost: The Black Church as God's Ark of the Covenant," which argues that the church must integrate technology and elevate youth leadership to stay relevant. Richardson, who leads Grace Baptist Church in Mount Vernon, New York, draws on decades of pastoral experience to make the case for institutional renewal.

Bishop Teresa E. Snorton wrote "Roots of Resilience: Black History Through the Eyes of Faith," a survey of African American history told through the lens of faith. The book is designed as a resource for church leaders and educators.

Rev. Boise Kimber authored "Breaking the Stained-glass Ceiling: A Critical Analysis of Women in Ministry in the Black Church," which examines barriers women face in Black Baptist leadership and profiles women who have broken through them.

All three books were released around Black History Month and have been adopted by seminary programs and church study groups across the country.

Religion News Service reported that the books reflect a broader conversation within the Black Church about how to address generational divides, gender equity, and the role of technology in ministry.

The authors are scheduled to appear together at the Hampton University Ministers' Conference in June.