Black Church Leaders Release Books on History, Women in Ministry, and Hope

Three prominent Black church leaders released new books in early 2026, each offering a different lens on the Black church's history and direction.

The Rev. Boise Kimber, president of the National Baptist Convention USA, published "Breaking the Stained-glass Ceiling: A Critical Analysis of Women in Ministry in the Black Church." The book grew from his Yale Divinity School master's thesis and argues for dismantling barriers to women's leadership. "I have appointed women in ministry, including pastors, to my cabinet, placed them in leadership roles and opened national platforms for them to preach, teach and lead," Kimber said.

Bishop Teresa E. Snorton of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church wrote "Roots of Resilience: Black History Through the Eyes of Faith," tracing African American history from African traditions to the Black Lives Matter Movement. She focuses on resilience as the key to the Black church's survival. "The Bible's verses were meant to liberate, not oppress," she wrote.

The Rev. W. Franklyn Richardson, chair of the Conference of National Black Churches, published "Never Lost: The Black Church as God's Ark of the Covenant." He calls it a historical tribute and a call to action, urging churches to include young people in leadership and integrate technology in worship.

All three books were released around Black History Month. Despite their common themes, the authors do not portray the Black church as a single unified body. Kimber noted its diversity: "We are as diverse as the very nature of Christianity."

Richardson said the Black church remains "a safe haven and guiding force for African Americans" and called for partnerships with banks, credit unions, and mental health professionals to address congregational needs.